Preaching on the Nature of Man

More Than Beasts: The Divine Distinction of Humanity

Introduction:

In a world that often blurs the lines, it is vital to remember the profound truth of our creation. We are not mere animals, evolved from chance and circumstance. We are the pinnacle of God's creation, fashioned in His very image, endowed with a unique purpose and destiny. Today, we will delve into the scriptures to understand the divine distinction that sets humanity apart.

I. Because Man Is NOT an Animal: The Divine Stamp

A. Genesis 1:26-28: The Blueprint of Humanity

Let us begin by revisiting the foundational passage of our creation:

• Genesis 1:26-28: “Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, 1 over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.’ So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Then God blessed them, and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.’”

These verses are not merely a creation story; they are a declaration of our unique identity. We are created “in Our image, according to Our likeness.” This is not a physical likeness, but a spiritual and intellectual one, a reflection of God’s own nature.

B. Three Differences Between Man and Animals (Gen. 1:26-28):

1. Man, as a kind, was created in the image and likeness of God: This is the cornerstone of our distinction. Animals are created “according to their kinds,” but humanity is created in God’s own image. This bestows upon us a dignity and purpose far exceeding the animal kingdom.

2. Man’s Composition: A Three-Part Masterpiece:

◦ A body framed from the earth (Genesis 2:7; Psalm 103:14; Ecclesiastes 3:20): We share this earthly composition with animals, a reminder of our connection to the physical world.

◦ A body that is living and mobile (Genesis 2:7; Acts 17:25-28; Gen 7:15): Animals also share this living, mobile body.

◦ A body that houses a spirit (Hebrews 12:9; Zechariah 12:1; Ecclesiastes 12:7; James 2:26): This is the crucial distinction. While animals possess a physical life, humanity is endowed with a spirit, a direct connection to the divine. This spirit makes us:

▪ Intellectual: Capable of reason, abstract thought, and creative expression.

▪ Accountable: Responsible for our actions before God.

▪ Moral agents: Possessing a conscience, discerning between right and wrong.

◦ Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14; 2 Corinthians 5:10, remind us of our accountability.

3. Man, as a kind, was made to rule over creation:

◦ Psalm 8:4-9 and Genesis 2:15 highlight our dominion over the earth. This is not a license for exploitation, but a call to stewardship, to care for God’s creation.

II. Because Man Is Created in God’s Image: The Divine Purpose

A. Man, as a kind, was created “male and female” for superior reasons—to grow a family:

• This is not merely about biological reproduction, but about building families that reflect God’s love and order.

• Not merely to “keep the species alive,” but also to subdue the earth (Genesis 7:3).

• To produce emotional, physical, and spiritual development (Psalm 127:3-5; Malachi 2:15; Isaiah 38:19; Ephesians 6:4).

• The family unit is a divine institution, designed for nurturing, teaching, and passing on the legacy of faith.

Conclusion:

Let us embrace the profound truth of our creation. We are not accidents of nature, but masterpieces of divine design. We are created in God’s image, endowed with a spirit, given dominion over the earth, and called to build families that honor Him. This understanding should shape our lives, guiding our actions, and inspiring us to live with purpose and dignity. Let us reject the false narratives that diminish our humanity and embrace the glorious truth that we are more than beasts, we are children of God. Amen.