The teachings of Doctors Mark Driscoll and Gerry Breshears emphasize that a life reflecting the image of God involves a deep commitment to spiritual growth and alignment with Christian values. In their work, they highlight that true sanctification through the Holy Spirit leads individuals to embody the qualities of Jesus Christ, much like Moses radiated divine glory after encountering God on Mt. Sinai.
To begin living a life that images God, a sincere belief in Christ as the Son of God is essential. This journey starts with a genuine repentance for sin and an active call for forgiveness and salvation. A meaningful relationship with God is marked by humility and constant awareness of His presence in daily life. As it has been aptly stated, “A good Christian does not think less of himself; he just thinks of himself less.” This mindset aligns with the teachings of the Apostle Paul, who urged believers to “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
In a world that often strays from spiritual principles, Christians are called to represent Christ in all environments. Engaging in Bible study, prayer, and Christian fellowship serves as foundational tools for this representation. The act of submitting to God’s authority is a crucial aspect of reflecting His image. This includes the mutual respect and submission within family structures, such as wives to husbands, children to parents, and church members to their leaders.
The current societal climate presents challenges to these values. Many women resist the notion of submission to their husbands, and instances of child rebellion are increasingly common. Those who strive to mirror God’s image actively seek opportunities to serve Him. The primary commandment remains to love God above all, which is best expressed through obedience to His will.
Discussions surrounding moral issues, such as abortion, illustrate the complexity of these values. Some individuals advocate for the belief that life begins only after birth, while others disturbingly justify the termination of life even after birth. As an instructor in anatomy and physiology, I maintain that abortion constitutes murder, as human life begins at conception. A zygote represents a fully living human being with the potential to mature into an adult.
The argument that a woman has autonomy over her body overlooks the reality that an embryo or zygote is a separate entity developing within her. To truly love others, Christians are encouraged to build connections through community activities, including church attendance. The scripture from Hebrews 10:25 reminds believers not to forsake communal gatherings but to encourage one another, especially as the day of accountability approaches.
For Christians, embodying their faith means fostering a close relationship with God. As stated in James 4:8, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” Furthermore, believers are urged to be active participants in their faith, as James notes, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1:22).
Recognizing our shared humanity, all individuals are sinners who struggle with their spiritual journeys. Yet, being created in the image of God inspires a genuine desire to reflect His character in everyday life. As we navigate our lives, the call to embody these values remains ever-present, urging us to strive for a deeper connection with the divine.
