In His Image: The Crown of Creation and the Call to Rule

Genesis 1:26–28 (NASB95) 

26Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” 27God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28God blessed them; and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” 

The creation of humankind stands as the pinnacle of God’s creative work. Unlike the previous acts of creation, God now pauses for a moment of unique deliberation—“Let Us make humankind in Our image, after Our likeness.” This shift in divine speech underscores the extraordinary dignity and calling of humanity. The “image of God” language, so rich and layered, is rooted in the ancient royal vocabulary, where kings alone were considered images of the gods. Here, however, God democratizes this status, bestowing royal dignity and purpose upon all people, both male and female. Every human, regardless of gender, is created to reflect God’s authority and character on earth. 

Gender and sexuality are not incidental but fundamental to God’s order and plan. The text makes clear that “male and female He created them,” emphasizing the intentional differentiation and complementary nature of the sexes. Both men and women equally bear God’s image, and together they are commissioned to be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth. Human sexuality, expressed in the union of husband and wife, is honored as a central element in fulfilling God’s blessing and mandate. This order forms the foundation for human flourishing and the continuation of God’s purposes across generations. 

We also begin to see not just what God created but why He created us: to rule over creation with His authority, as His representatives. Dominion is not license for exploitation, but a call to wise stewardship and care—mirroring the just and benevolent rule of the Creator Himself. Humanity’s role is to “subdue” and “have dominion” over the earth, acting as God’s royal vice-regents. This charge comes with both privilege and responsibility, as the welfare of creation is tied to humanity’s righteousness and faithfulness. 

As the narrative moves forward to the second chapter of Genesis, the focus will sharpen further—not only on what and why God created, but on where He intends us to live out this calling. Eden will be revealed as a temple, the meeting place of God and humanity, where man dwells in the very presence of God and fulfills his most important function: worship, fellowship, and service in communion with the Creator. 

The church today is called to embrace and embody the dignity and order that God established at creation. In a world often confused about identity, purpose, gender, and sexuality, chaos and disorder prevail. Christians, reflecting the image of God, must honor and uphold the truth of God’s order and purpose, restoring order where it is lacking. As image-bearers, believers are to reflect God’s character in their relationships, work, and care for the world, striving for justice, flourishing, and reconciliation for all. Our calling is not only to rule but to serve, looking forward to the restoration of all things in Christ, the perfect Image of God, who leads His people back into God’s presence.