Am I a Wise Man?

Am I a Wise Man?

Proverbs 1:7

Once more we see God’s value system is different from the average person’s. He describes “wisdom” not as mere human intelligence or being brainy like we do, but as respecting Him first and paying attention to the profitable counsel from His Word. So, a ‘wise man’ leads a lifestyle of moral integrity or honesty, humility, and agreement/obedience to God.

Regarding biblical wisdom, “fear” again is not referring to being terrified of punishment. Instead, this is a deep, reverent awe and healthy respect for God. It includes recognizing that He is the Creator, the ultimate authority, and the judge of all that is right. By starting here, we acknowledge our own limitations and align ourselves with the fundamental moral order of God.

The essence of true knowledge is fearing God. Apart from Him a person is ignorant of spiritual things (Rom. 1:22; Eph. 4:18; 1 Peter 1:14).^[1]

If you wonder if you are ‘wise’, God offer clear statements to help us reflect on. These primary verses provide specific ways to measure our wisdom.

What Can I Learn from the Book of Proverbs?

God views a wise man as someone who pursues humility, seeks counsel, and reveres Him. He is characterized by emotional control, diligence, careful speech, and a lifelong desire to learn.

Basic qualities of a wise man in Proverbs include:

1.     His Foundation is in God: The Bible states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge" (Proverbs 1:7). A wise man trusts in God rather than relying solely on his own understanding.

If a man wants to be wise, the place to begin is in reverencing God and in trusting and obeying Him. What is more reasonable than that the creature should trust his Creator? On the other hand, what is more illogical than for a man to reject God’s Word and to live by his own hunches? The wise thing to do is to repent of one’s sins, trust Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and then live for Him wholeheartedly and devotedly.^[2]

• The Character Statement: “Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.” (James 3:13)
• The Worldly Wisdom Evaluation: “Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.” (1 Corinthians 3:18)

True wisdom is fundamentally rooted in the “fear of the LORD” (a deep reverence and respect for God) and applying His lessons to everyday experiences.

2. He Listens to Counsel with a Desire to Learn: A wise man is teachable, actively increasing his learning and seeking guidance, whereas a fool despises instruction and thinks he needs no advice.
• The Teachability Examination: “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.” (Proverbs 12:15)
• The Humility Acid Test: “Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.” (Proverbs 3:7)

Unlike a fool who thinks he is always right, a wise man listens to advice, accepts correction, and learns from his mistakes.

3.    He Controls His Temper: Rather than being reckless or quick-tempered, he stays calm, restrains his anger, and overlooks insults.

o   God very directly says control your temper in Proverbs 16:32: “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.”

• James 1:19: Advises being "swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath".

o   Ephesians 4:26: Advises dealing with anger immediately rather than letting it fester.

In this better … than proverb (see comments on 12:9) having patience and a controlled temper is honored above being a soldier. In a land where safety depended on might and skill in warfare, this statement may seem surprising. Yet conquering oneself (cf. 14:17, 29; 25:28; 29:11) is of greater virtue than conquering a city.^[3]

4. He Uses Restrained and Helpful Speech: A truly wise person speaks carefully and uses few words. His words are known to bring healing rather than acting rashly like a sword.
• The Speech Appraisal: “In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.” (Proverbs 10:19)
• Proverbs 29:11, 14:29, & 15:1: Focus on wisdom over folly, urging a calm spirit and using soft words to calm conflicts.
• Proverbs 25:28: Compares lack of self-control to a broken-down city.

The more we talk, the greater is the probability of saying something wrong. Compulsive talkers should beware! The lust for incessant conversation often leads to exaggeration, breaking of confidences, and associated sins. Trying to top someone else’s joke often mushrooms into off-color stories.

The man who exercises self-control in his speech is wise. He saves himself from embarrassment, apologies, and outright sin.

10:20 What a good man says is a reflection of what he is. Because his character is sterling, so is his speech. Since the heart (or mind) of the wicked man is not worthwhile, neither is the conversation that flows from it.^[4]

A wise person restrains their speech, avoiding gossip, anger, and hasty words in favor of gracious and truthful communication.

5.   He is a Diligent and Productive Worker:

God provides strong motivation for a productive work ethic, urging believers to work with diligence and integrity as an act of service to Him. God highlights the importance of hard work, offering wisdom for both daily tasks and career focus.

o   Proverbs 14:23: Emphasizes that hard work brings profit, while idle talk brings poverty.

o   Proverbs 22:29: Notes that diligent workers gain recognition and distinction.

o   Proverbs 13:4: Highlights how the diligent will be fulfilled, while the lazy will lack.

o   Proverbs 10:4: Connects a diligent hand with prosperity.

God heartily endorses excellence, purpose, diligence, reward, skill, and integrity for employers and employees. Colossians 3:23, encourages working heartily for the Lord rather than men. Ecclesiastes 9:10, instructs doing all tasks with your full strength. 1 Corinthians 10:31, advises doing everything for the glory of God.

6.    He Looks Ahead with Discretion: He exercises discretion and caution, anticipating danger and turning away from evil, while a fool is reckless and arrogant. ‘Discretion’ is the ability to use godly wisdom to protect yourself from harm, avoid foolish mistakes, and respond calmly to others.

o   Proverbs 2:11, “Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:” This verse highlights that exercising good judgment acts as a guardrail against dangerous paths.

o   Proverbs 19:11, “The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to overlook a transgression.” Self-control and knowing when to let something go reflect true character.

o   Psalm 112:5, “A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.” In daily matters the righteous manage their responsibilities wisely.

Wisdom brings discernment. A wise man is vigilant, avoids dangerous paths, and flees from temptation.

7.    He Keeps Good Company: Whoever walks with wise men becomes wise, much like iron sharpens iron.

o   Proverbs 13:20, “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.” Those with whom you surround yourself will shape your own character and future. Walking with the wise leads to wisdom, while associating with fools (the biblically unwise or rebellious) leads to ruin.

o   1 Corinthians 15:33, “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” God warning us against being misled. Spending time with negative influences, unwholesome speech, or those who disregard God’s values will ultimately ruin your own good character and habits.

One way to become wise is to associate with wise people, including companions and teachers. Conversely to associate with fools brings problems.^[5]

What Can I Learn from the Lord Jesus?

1.     The chief quality of a “wise man” is obedience to God through adherence to his word.

2.    Jesus illustrates this concept on a real-world level referring to the wise and foolish builders (Matthew 7:24-27).

3.    Jesus showed:

·        The Wise Man: Represents anyone who hears Jesus' teachings and puts them into practice. Because their life is built on a solid foundation of obedience, they can withstand the storms and trials of life.

·        The Foolish Man: Hears the teachings of Christ but ignores them. When life gets difficult, their house (life) collapses because it lacks the strong foundation of adherence.

In conclusion Jesus presented the two options open to His listeners. They were now responsible for what they had heard and must make a choice. They could build on one of two foundations. One foundation was likened to a big rock and the other to sand. The foundation determines the ability of a structure to withstand the elements (rain and winds). The rock foundation represented the Lord Himself and the truths He had been presenting, especially the truth concerning inner transformation. The sand spoke of Pharisaic righteousness which the people knew and on which many were basing their hopes. In storms the first would give stability; the second would result in destruction. Thus hearing and heeding Jesus’ words is wise; one who does not is foolish. Only two courses of action are possible—two kinds of roads and gates (Matt. 7:13–14), two kinds of trees and fruit (vv. 15–20), two kinds of foundations and builders (vv. 24–27).^[6]

Conclusion:

It is wise to walk in King Solomon’s wisdom. Clearly, King Solomon is widely regarded as the wisest man ever. When God offered him anything he desired, Solomon asked for wisdom to govern God’s people well (1 Kings 3). Such wisdom became legendary. However, the Bible also teaches that even Solomon’s adherence faltered later in life when he strayed from God’s guidelines—reminding us that godly wisdom requires lifelong, active faithfulness and continuous application. So, where are you concerning God’s wisdom?

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^[1] Sid S. Buzzell, “Proverbs,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 908.

^[2] William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 792.

^[3] Sid S. Buzzell, “Proverbs,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 942.

^[4] William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 815.

^[5] Sid S. Buzzell, “Proverbs,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 934.

^[6] Louis A. Barbieri Jr., “Matthew,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 34–36.

Gender Wars and Battles of the Sexes

 

God Created Two Genders—Male and Female

Genesis 1:26-28, And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. ²⁷ So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. ²⁸ And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.

This article is concerned with the matter of two genders as the subtitle states, and to visit some of the difficult issues that fuel the battles between the sexes. Yes, I am very aware of highly educated folks claiming there are 63 genders. Some also insist there are about five sexes suggesting a distinction between gender and sex. Truly the disagreement and confusion among those who spout such ideas is more than a mathematician can calculate! I promise not to waste valuable time rehearsing these baseless and truly unscientific notions here. There are enough PhDs out there trying to make a name for themselves exploring something new…different or…full on weird. Biblically speaking, humanity is male and female as the Creator intended and nothing explains this patiently obvious reality better than the Word of God. The Lord Jesus states this at least four thousand years after creation, “And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female” (Matt. 19:4). With this in mind, let us explore this concrete idea that God created two genders—male and female. Then we will look honestly at some precepts of peace in marriage that could end the wars.   

Clearly the Genesis chapter 1 passage gives attention to the origin and roles of the sexes. It explores two questions, “Why did God create two sexes? And the second question is, “Can men and women be equal and yet have different roles?” The fact that God created humanity male and female is self-evident and clearly stated in Genesis 1:27. There is zero notion of an evolutionary process as this is presented as a direct and deliberate origination of humanity. It is also mentioned in Genesis 5:1-2 where Moses asserts that male and female bear the image of God. Male and female shows God’s image in (1) harmonious interpersonal relationship, (2) equality in personhood and importance, and (3) difference in role and authority (Grudem, 1994, p. 454). Four major sub-divisions of the subject of male and female may be addressed here: (A) personal relationships, (B) Equality in personhood and importance, (C) Differences in roles, and (D) the application to marriage. It is beneficial to look at each of these separately.

The personal relationships between male and female tells us that God did not create humanity to live in isolation, but in relationship (Gen. 2:24). Because people bear the image of God, they can enjoy interpersonal unity in different relationships and society. In fact the interpersonal relationships of human beings mirror the fellowship that exists within the company of the Trinity.  Healthy human relationships can show the unity, harmony, and fellowship that exist in the Trinity. This reflects the plurality of Persons as in the Trinity also (Jn. 17:5, 24). So marriage to some degree is designed to illustrate the enduring and harmonious relation in the Trinity (Mal. 2:14-16; Rom. 7:2). This is just one way the Trinity can be reflected in human life.

God’s design of equality in personhood and importance should also be pointed out. Just as the Persons of the Trinity are equal in their full existence and distinct Persons, so it is with men and women. They both are equal in personhood and importance. Male and female are created equally in God’s image and both reflect the character of God (Gen. 1:27; 5:1, 2). The Bible repeatedly emphasis this equality in personhood and importance regarding both sexes (Proverbs 31; Acts 2:17-18). Both are worthy of honor and respect and each individual should be thankful to God for what he made them. In New Testament times, the Lord Jesus was an outstanding advocate of this equality as evidenced in his teachings, illustrations, ministry, and actions toward women. Both are valuable and gifted members of Christ’s body (1Cor. 12:7, 11). Paul in Galatians 3:27, 28 clearly articulates this reality of equality in the church.

Equality, however, does not eliminate the differences in roles laid down in the Scriptures. In the Trinity, the Father has the greatest authority in spite of the fact that He shares equal personality with the Son and the Holy Spirit.  Clearly there are different and non-interchangeable roles within the Godhead. In marriage there must be recognition of authority and submission. Men are granted headship and the responsibility to lead and wives are responsible to submit and follow (1Cor. 11:3).  Also in this connection, there is biblical evidence for the existence of this distinction even before the fall of man. It is not a consequence of the fall, but it is hampered by the fall (Gen. 3:16). This can be substantiated by several observations. First, Adam was created before Eve (Gen. 2:7, 18-23). Secondly, Eve was created as Adam’s help meet or helper and not the other way around (Gen. 2:18). Thirdly, Adam named Eve thus signifying authority over her. Fourthly, God named the human race “Man” and not “woman.” Then fifthly, the serpent came to Eve first to undermine the marriage (Gen. 3). Sixth of all, God addressed Adam first after the fall and not Eve (Gen. 2:15-17). The seventh observation shows that Adam represented the human race and not Eve (Gen. 3:6; 1Cor. 15:22, 49). Eighthly, the curse because of the entrance of sin brought about a distortion of roles and not the introduction of new roles (Gen. 3:16, 18, 19). The woman would desire to rule her husband and the husband would rule over his wife with harshness and insensitivity. This is the consequence of sin. Then lastly, redemption in the Lord Jesus Christ reaffirmed the order of creation (Col. 3:18, 19; Eph. 5:22-33; Titus 2:5; 1Peter 3:1-7).

There are several noteworthy implications for the roles of men and women contained in the phrase “help meet for him” (Gen. 2:18). The first is the stated fact that it is not good for man to be alone (Gen. 2:18) and after God created Eve and brought her to Adam, God viewed this as very good (Gen. 1:31).  The implication is that man is a social creature designed so by God.  In light of this the term help meet means a helper “fit” or “suitable” or even “face to face” to him.  Some define it as ‘corresponding to’ the man. Thus Eve is not merely a helpmate, but a companion who would fulfill the social needs of Adam. 

In this connection, it should be recognized that Ephesians 5:21-33 do not teach a universal mutual submission among Christians as some have concluded. No, Ephesian 5:21 teach us to be submissive to others in the church who are in positions of authority over us. The context and the following verses (Eph. 5:22-6:9) show this to be the correct understanding of the verse. Spirit-filled wives will be submissive to their own husbands, and Spirit-filled children will be submissive to their parents, and Spirit-filled servants will be submissive to their own masters. This order is never reversed, nor diluted by a false idea of mutual submission.

How should we refute the cultural argument against the interpretation of roles in Ephesians 5 and 6? The cultural argument against sound interpretation of the roles prescribed in Ephesians 5 and 6 can be refuted in several ways.  First Paul’s instructions in this passage clearly are enduring; there is no statement or even hint of them becoming obsolete during this present age in God’s economy.  Some may argue that just as slavery has been abolished, so God’s order has changed for women in today’s culture.  They purport that wives in the first century were to submit to their husbands just as slaves in Paul’s day submitted to their masters: out of love for God and their freedom in Christ.  When slavery ended so did the requirement of submission in the wife’s role. But, again there is no such statement in any of the principle texts dealing with marriage that teach God’s order for marriage would not endure. The command to submit to one’s husband is enduring.

Secondly, marriage is a divine institution started and ordered by God directly and throughout revelation he addresses it to influence its course. Slavery is not an institution ordained by God, but rather God sought to regulate it to ensure justice, fairness, and Christian propriety. Slavery is a human invention, but God sought to manage, police and control it to eliminate abuses.  Accordingly, it is the institution of slavery that has been abolished. Is the cultural interpretation advocating abolishing the institution of marriage? Perhaps not by intent, but arguably they indeed are in effect. The elimination of marriage would be the equivalent to the abolishment of slavery, not merely deleting the role of wives’ submission to their husbands. 

Thirdly, the wife is to submit to her husband as unto the Lord and just as the church is subject to Christ (Eph. 5:22-24). These verses present a correlation and parallel to demonstrate the wife’s role to her husband—the church’s submission to the glorious Christ her Head. The analogy will not tolerate manipulation or role reversals. Is Christ still the head of His church? The obvious answer is yes. To reverse the role of the wife to head would also advocate the church assuming the leadership over Christ. No Christian person is prepared to embrace or advocate such a ridiculous proposition. To advocate a change in principle marital roles is equally absurd. 

There will always be cultural influences that invade Christian thinking and disrupt godly values.  However we must not bow to popular ideas to accommodate the culture nor to placate our own desire to avert controversy. The command to submit is enduring, the institution of marriage is divine not human, and the irreversible nature of Christ’s headship over the church advocates a patriarchal society.

So how should the husband exercise his headship in the home? The manner in which a husband fulfills his role of headship in the home must be understood.  He is to love his wife as “Christ love the church” (Eph. 5:25) and “love his wife as his own body” (Eph. 5:28).  He must show the same selfish concern for her welfare that he exhibits toward his own person and is to “nourish and cherish” her just as his physical body.  On the other hand he is to have the same self-sacrificing love for his mate that Christ has for His bride, the church. When a husband is right with God and loves his wife biblically, he treats her in such a kind, considerate, and thoughtful manner that she finds it easy to respect and submit to him as “unto the Lord.” The husband’s primary goal is to emulate the love Christ demonstrates for His bride, the church.  This kind of loving is not just emotional, but an orientation, a chain of choices, a series of actions designed to bring about the wife’s well-being, happiness, and ultimate wholeness.

In addition, husbands are not to be cruel and harsh with their wives, but to love them as Christ loves the church. This certainly makes it easier for a wife to live in submission to her husband. Men are not to be tyrannical or passive. Both extremes drive wives to great frustration! Wives are not to usurp authority over their husbands. This will only buy her resentment and weariness! Wives are not to be totally passive either. Husbands should focus on loving, considerate, and thoughtful leadership in their homes for the glory of Christ. Wives should focus on active, intelligent and joyful submission to their own husbands as unto the Lord Jesus Himself.

Consider another related question…. Why is it important to have a balance in the number of roles played by a husband and wife? Honestly, it is important to have a balance in the number of roles a couple assumes as individuals. The multiplication of roles for both husband and wife will have an adverse impact on the marriage and the family. A husband may be father and bread winner along with a ministry in the church, or a second job or even a volunteer position in the community.  A wife may not only be a mother, and homemaker, but also serve in the church, or even in a PTA or other community functions. The truth is we can handle many different roles successfully, but problems arise when we devote too much time to one role to the gross neglect of others. There is also the possibility of becoming spread too thin; performing many roles but none very well.  Every husband and wife must understand their limitations regarding time, energy, strength and emotional endurance. Though there are many worthy causes, we must develop the ability to say no to many of them. This will allow us to manage fewer roles in a far more meaningful manner, and insure children and spouses receive a healthy amount of interaction. Again God created the sexes to complement each other and to mirror the relationship in the Trinity as the couple shows the image of God in them.

Is it true that “Conflict is inevitable in marriage?” Yes, I can honestly say that conflict is inevitable in marriage. This is true with most couples; confrontations will occur.  There may be disagreement on a certain subject that creates tension, quarrels, and even hostility. Such confrontations may serve a useful purpose in that they force the couple to deal with issues and face problems they otherwise avoid. Since conflict is inevitable, couples must learn how to work through them and develop their communication skills. Strong families have the ability or communication skills to resolve their differences. They are able to talk about them, to share their feelings openly, and come to a resolution of the problem.

Well…what methods may a couples use to solve conflict situations? Several methods could be employed by a couple in conflict resolution…many are quite obvious. Having certain guidelines for arguing may prove to be very helpful if the couple has the discipline to stick to them in the heat of battle. The first step is to get to the base of the issue or source of the problem. Then once the fundamental issue has been understood, then the couple must explore the motive. Is it an ego problem? Or is this evidence of an inferiority complex? Maybe it’s an attempt to strike back or seize control through some form of manipulation. Once the problem has been discovered and discussed, the couple can now explore viable solutions to permanently settle the issue.  In additions once the problem is solved it is not to be brought up again in future quarrels.

There are other helpful approaches couples could use with some success and hope.  For example they should avoid attacking the others personality. Being familiar with their strengths and weaknesses means we possess an arsenal of ammunitions to damage our mate. Do not succumb to this temptation! Another tactic is to realize that some times are more appropriate for discussing problems than others.  One should never air differences when others are present, when one is tired, or when hungry. These will only escalate the problem when better timing would have been an aid in resolution.  Some families tackle problems as they come up and others have a set family conference time to deal with such conflicts. One of the most important things a couple must learn is how to compromise when this is a viable option.  Sometimes a couple must simply agree to disagree, but genuinely respect the other’s point of view.  Differences can also be resolved by assimilation—accepting the view of the other.  Always bear in mind that many problems can be solve through careful analysis.  Conflicts will occur, this we can be sure of.  In light of this each couple must develop skills and procedures to overcome disagreements and conflicts.  Instead of these becoming destructive, they can be used as constructive vehicles of growth and enrichment.

As noted earlier, God created two distinct genders, male and female are created equally in God’s image and yes, both sexes reflect the character of God as individuals and in relationship (Gen. 1:27; 5:1, 2). Clearly, the verses we have highlighted here repeatedly emphasis this equality in personhood and importance regarding both sexes (Proverbs 31; Acts 2:17-18). Conflicts will occur and disagreements can be work through. The more the character of Christ marks us the more capable we will be at working through the wars and disagreements. However, the more we allow our fickle culture to influence our thinking the more conflict and disharmony will escalate. Again, the Scriptures insist that both genders are worthy of honor and respect and each individual should thank God for what he made them.

God Created the Human Race

 

Genesis 1:26-28

Have you thought much about the singular human race lately? With all the talk about race these days you would think there are multiple races. While there are many ethnic groups, there is really only one race—the human race. God only created one! In Genesis 1 and 2, the focus is on how the universe and human beings came into existence and why God created humanity in the first place. In addition Moses also explores how people can conduct themselves and please God with their lives. In this light, let us entertain three questions, why did God create us? How did God make us like himself? How can we please him in everyday living?

Consider what Moses wrote in Genesis 1:26-28,

And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. ²⁷ So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. ²⁸ And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.^[1]

In order to answer these questions, we may begin by exploring the use of the word “Man” to refer to the human race. Certainly it refers to the male individual, but it is also used as a broader all-encompassing idea—humanity (Gen. 1:26). It is appropriate to refer to the human race in this manner because the Scriptures do so. With this precedence the term man will represent humanity both male and female. There is no intent to offend the female reader, but simply a desire to be consistent with the biblical usage of the term (Genesis 5:1-2; 1:27). It should also be noted that God did directly create man—he did NOT evolve as some have theorized.

Then let us explore the reason mankind was created. The first thing to understand is that God did not need to create man. God was fulfilled relationally within the fellowship of the Trinity. This was true of God from all eternity (John 17:5, 24). God was and always has been free of any need or unmet desire. Still it is equally true that God created mankind for His glory. This truth is mention several times over in Scripture and communicated in several ways (Isa. 43:7; Eph. 1:11-12; 1Cor. 10:31).  This reality guarantees and gives significance to every human life regardless of ethnicity. All human beings share this all essential purpose and meaning for life. It directly indicates that we are important to God himself; this is the most significant purpose for human life. Again glorifying God is the purpose of human life and by extension the varied ethnic diversity that we have. This truth is rehearsed in a number of the Psalms where the pleasure of man is found in the fellowship and presence of the Lord (Ps. 16:11; 27:4; 73:25, 26; 84:1, 2, 10). When believers realize and explore the purpose of God for their very existence, they will experience an intensity of joy. Giving glory to God is the most right thing any human being can engage in doing. He is worthy of all glory (Rev. 4:11). When people seize glory for themselves it must clearly be considered wrong because people are not worthy of this honor. However, it is entirely right for God to seek his own glory. He is the only one that is worthy.  Each person should invest their entire strength to render glory to him (Mark 12:30).

Not only should we understand how the term “man” is used in Scripture and why man was created, but we can also understand what it means to bear the image of God. The image of God (Gen. 1:26) can be defined as the fact that “man is like God and represents God” (Grudem, 1994, p. 442). Walvoord and Zuck of Dallas Theological Seminary, observed in The Bible Knowledge Commentary, 

Human life was created in (lit., “as,” meaning “in essence as”) the image of God (v. 27). This image was imparted only to humans (2:7). “Image” (ṣelem) is used figuratively here, for God does not have a human form. Being in God’s image means that humans share, though imperfectly and finitely, in God’s nature, that is, in His communicable attributes (life, personality, truth, wisdom, love, holiness, justice), and so have the capacity for spiritual fellowship with Him.

God’s purpose in creating human life in His image was functional: man is to rule or have dominion (Gen. 1:26, 28). God’s dominion was presented by a “representative.” Egyptian kings later, in idolatry, did a similar kind of thing: they represented their rule or dominion by making representative statues of themselves. However, because of sin all things are not under man’s dominion (Heb. 2:8). But Jesus Christ will establish dominion over all the earth (Heb. 2:5-8) at His second coming.

So the image of God involves humanity’s, intellect, emotions, volition, and morality. In the fall of man, the image of God was marred and distorted, but not lost. Even though man is sinful, governed by selfishness, and does not constantly glorify God, he still bears something of God’s image. Salvation is redemption in Jesus Christ is actually an effort to progressively recover God’s image in each believer. This is taught in Colossians 3:10, which says, we are “renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him.” Then 2Corintians 3:18, says, “with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the spirit of the Lord.” And Romans 8:29, spells out clearly what the goal of redemption is, “to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the Firstborn among many brethren.” In fact at Christ’s return, the image of God in the believer will be completely restored “we shall also bear the image of the heavenly” (1Cor. 15:49). In the Lord Jesus we see human likeness to God as it was originally was intended to be (Col. 1:15; Rom. 8:29; 1Jn. 3:2).

Furthermore, our great dignity as bearers of God’s image gives us a profound sense of dignity and significance that transcends that of the sun, moon, and stars. We are more like our Creator God than anything in the entire universe including angels. Every human life then should be treated with the dignity and respect no matter how lowly there station in this world. This must be observed especially with the elderly, unborn, mentally retarded, and seriously ill. All of these deserve the full protection of the law and the honor of all human beings. Humans are not animals, but far higher creatures as bearers of the image of an infinite God.

Finally, regarding race and ethnicity, such distinctions should not be over emphasized or underscored. The idea of multiple races is actually rooted in human pride as one ethnic group seeks glory for its members. All the chatter these days about racial distinctions ignore the fundamental fact that God created only one singular race, the human race, with great ethnic diversity. We all descended from Adam and even more specifically, from Noah. Beloved, God created for His glory and not ours nor for any ethnic group. It would be great if we all stop spouting off ill-informed statements like “Black Pride,” and “White Supremacy.” What would be even better is to stop weaponizing race during election cycles to manipulate people to vote a certain way. The unfortunate reality is politicians gain power or remain in power by such abuses; if racial problems cease to be an issue then the race baiters and profiteers will lose their income source and purpose. So, they continue to promote hate, pride, resentment, jealousy, division, and conflict to ensure their relevance for years to come. These people clearly are not interested in real solutions! They view people as victims who need them to rescue them from society at large. These intellectual elites do not care about your needs nor your pain; you are an object to be exploited to their personal advantage. This may be hard for some to read without being frustrated. I have no desire to frustrate you; and yes, sometimes the truth is very uncomfortable. I personally have chosen to live for God’s glory as a member of the human race; my first devotion is to Him and not the ethnic group I belong to. Though that may seem a little strange to some folks, a Christian seeks first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. This is where my deepest loyalties lie...with an eternal people, an eternal kingdom, and a forever King. I invite you to join me in this righteous purpose which has eternal significance.   

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^[1] The Holy Bible: King James Version. (2009). (Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version., Ge 1:26–28). Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.