Living as the Image of God, Part 1 | Lakewood Bible Study

Main message: Following Jesus means being conformed to his image so that, as God’s image‑bearers, our lives and work cause heaven and earth to reflect one another. Practically, this looks like bringing heaven’s characteristics (healing, provision, forgiveness, encouragement, justice) into everyday relationships and actions until Christ returns.

Key points:

• Jesus is the visible image of the invisible God and the true human; believers are being conformed to his likeness (we are the second Adam’s people).
• The original Genesis mandate to “multiply and subdue” the earth—to make it look like heaven—remains in effect and is fulfilled ultimately in Revelation’s new heaven and new earth.
• Everyday acts (encouraging the discouraged, feeding the hungry, forgiving others, promoting peace) are how believers cause heaven and earth to align.
• Believers are “crowned with glory and honor” and given a dignified rulership role to steward creation toward God’s intended order.
• This calling continues now by the Spirit and will be completed when Jesus returns and removes sin and death.

Scriptures mentioned: Colossians 1:15, Romans 8:29, Genesis 1, Revelation 21-22, Psalm 8:3-6