In the Bible, only people are described as being made in God’s image. While at the beginning creation is described as ‘good’, after the appearance of human beings it is called ‘very good’ (Genesis 1:31). Talking about humankind, the Psalmist writes:

You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honour. You made him ruler over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet (Psalm 8:5, 6).

Here is a profound and majestic description of creation–and of the position of humanity. Clearly, men and women are seen as being the acme of God’s handiwork. And more than this, we are crowned with glory and honour.

A similar picture is drawn in the book of Exodus where the high priest is described as being clothed in garments which were designed to give him ‘dignity and honour’ (Exodus 28:2).

To be made in God’s image was to be made with a sense of intrinsic value and dignity. When we understand that we are created in God’s image, we discover a whole new sense of self-worth. We begin to realize our true value.

To read more on this topic see Living in the Image of God, Barry Chant (Miranda: Tabor, 2012 available in eBook and Paperback) from which this edited extract is taken.