Breaking Ground
What is your favorite type of environment to spend time in? For example, the beach, mountains, desert, etc. Why?
The Dig
This Sunday, Pastor Mike explored the foundational vision of what it means to be a human being from the Creation Accounts of Genesis 1 & 2.
What do you think it means to be human? What attributes set us apart from other animals (good & bad)?
First, read Genesis 1:26-28. This is the opening description of what it means to be human in the Bible. In particular, there are two key words applied solely to humanity here:
- Humanity is made in the Image of God, which describes humans as idols, representatives, or reflections of God in the world (His Temple).
- Humanity is made in the Likeness of God, which describes humanity as resembling God on a familial level.
How do these two descriptors help define what it means to be human? Which of them speaks to you the most? Why?
Next, read Genesis 2:7 & 2:15-16. In this second Creation Account, we find that being human is further defined by the fact that we possess a unique, God-given vocation, which is fleshed out by 4 unique tasks:
- To subdue & work the Earth, two gardening terms about applying our will to Creation’s potential to help it grow more life than it would on its own.
- To rule over & take care of the Earth, which describes stewarding Creation on God’s behalf in a way that protects & honors it.
Which of these tasks standout to you the most? How do they further define what it means to be made in the image & likeness of God?
Do you often think of caring for the earth as being a critical part of honoring God & being human? Why do you think this part of our God-given human calling is often neglected by the Church?
Do you find it easy to embrace your identity as a child & icon of God? How about your vocation as one of God’s stewards over Creation?
Based on your previous answer, where do you need to grow in terms of living into this vision of being human? How can your group help you do so in this next season of your life?
Coming Out of the Hole
Take time to reflect on the Sunday sermon & how this week’s teaching might speak into your daily life.
- Read Genesis 1 & 2. What words & activities standout to you the most when it comes to humanity & what God created us to do?
- How do the descriptors of humanity here help you understand what God created us to do in His world? Where do you see yourself partaking in the activities that you’ve identified?
- Where can you grow more in your ability to mirror God as His Image-Bearers in Creation?
Journal, reflect, & pray on how God might be speaking to you through each week’s teaching. Share your experience with your growth group next week!
Additional Resources*
TheBibleProject.com
The Image of God in the Garden of Eden by Catherine McDowell
Coming Up This Week:*
Sunday, July 14th: Join us next Sunday as Pastor Scott kicks off Boundless Church, our new series on being a Centered Set Church!
* Please see mye3.org for details.