Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters

Dr. Carmen Imes discusses several ideas in her book, Being God's Image. Some items are controversial by her own admission, parts of the book were to start conversation, others are quite certain. Her argument of being God's Image was well done and convincing:“Identity is a modern concept, but a useful one for talking about the image of God. We can no more lose our identity as God’s image than a child can lose his or her identity as a son or a daughter. If one of my children decides to rebel, rejecting my counsel and defying the boundaries I have set, that child is still my child. Nothing can change that. We can become estranged from one another, but we remain mother and child. Our identity as God’s image is like this. We can fail to live well as God’s image, but we never stop being God’s image. Because the essence of being God’s image is a claim about our identity rather than a capability or function, we cannot lose it.”“Here’s one of the most persuasive factors that leads me to conclude that the image of God is not lost: human status as God’s image is reiterated after the fall (Genesis 5:1-3) and again after the flood (Genesis 9:6). To me this is all the evidence we need to demonstrate that human identity has not changed.6 Our relationship with God may be strained or broken, but humans remain the image of God.”Imes, Carmen Joy. Being God's Image (pp. 53-54). InterVarsity Press. Kindle Edition.I enjoyed the book and I am rereading it for a better understanding. I'm sure the controversial ideas will start many conversation. I would encourage others to read it as well.

"Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters" by Dr. Carmen Joy Imes is a captivating and thought-provoking book that delves into the profound concept of being made in the image of God. With insightful arguments and fresh perspectives, Imes challenges traditional notions and encourages readers to reevaluate their understanding of this foundational theological concept.One of the most intriguing aspects of the book is Imes' exploration of gender roles and the significance of diversity within the framework of being God's image-bearers. Rather than promoting rigid stereotypes, she emphasizes the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their gender. Imes advocates for a more inclusive understanding that values the unique contributions and experiences of both men and women in reflecting God's image.Another thought-provoking topic tackled by Imes is the stewardship of creation. She argues that as image-bearers, we have a responsibility to care for the environment and its inhabitants. Imes challenges the anthropocentric mindset that prioritizes human interests over the well-being of the natural world. By highlighting the interconnectedness of all living beings, she calls for a more holistic approach that seeks to preserve and nurture the Earth for future generations.While Imes presents compelling arguments throughout the book, it is important to note that her perspectives may not align with mainstream theological traditions in all areas. Her willingness to challenge long-held beliefs and engage in critical analysis invites readers to reexamine their own convictions and engage in meaningful dialogue."Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters" is not a book to be skimmed through lightly. It requires careful consideration and an open mind. Imes skillfully combines scholarly research, biblical insights, and personal anecdotes to present a comprehensive exploration of the Imago Dei. Whether or not one agrees with all of her conclusions, the book serves as a catalyst for deeper theological reflection and fosters a greater appreciation for the complexity and beauty of being created in God's image.In conclusion, "Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters" is an intellectually stimulating and enlightening read that challenges conventional perspectives on the concept of being made in the image of God. Imes invites readers to embark on a journey of introspection and critical thinking, encouraging a deeper understanding of our role as image-bearers and the implications it holds for our relationships, our world, and our faith.

Dr. Imes is a respected biblical scholar and professor, but her writing style is very conversational and easy to read. She goes through cultural background and history surrounding the Bible, but in a very fun and engaging way. I learned so much about why history and language is important when reading the Bible. I never considered what being God's image meant in depth before, and I think this will change a lot for me in a significant way. I know I'll be thinking about this topic for quite some time, if not the rest of my life. I also really enjoyed the way Dr. Imes brings up topics that are relevant to our culture today and offers things that can be considered in light of what it means to be made in God's image. This book is written in a bible-study and/or book club friendly format, with chapters that are not too long and some reflection topics and additional resources at the end of each chapter. I will be suggesting this book to my book club!

After having been introduced to Carmen Joy Imes' work through Naked Bible Podcast, I was interesting in hearing more from Dr Imes. I found Being God's Image was well-researched and well-reasoned from Scripture and within the ancient Semitic and current cultures. Dr Imes is also very articulate in communicating her message, while conveying the information within the abilities of the lay person to track, comprehend and reason through the evidence presented. A very enjoyable and insightful read, with a few "huh, never noticed that before, but sure makes sense" moments. I recommend it.

Finished "Being God's Image" in the wee small hours, realizing I must rewrite my Capstone paper on reclaiming a place for seniors in the church. On the minus side: hours more work. On the plus side (and a huge plus it is), Imes showed me my core premise must not be "the church needs all generations" but that youth are not image bearers in training, seniors are not image bearers fading away in care facilities. All of us are equally and always images of God. Powerful stuff.

This book is a gem. Wether you are a new Christian (like me) or have been one your entire life, you will end up with a better grasp of the image of God concept then most people in your church.I think Carmen did an awesome job, as she did with her previous book "Bearing God's Name", of going deep in a subject while keeping the book easy to read.After reading "Being God's Image", I have a better understanding and appreciation of our amazing status as human beings.

Overall, this is a good introductory book on humankind as God's representatives in the world responsible for nurturing fellowship with one another, maintaining order, and stewarding the resources of creation. The distinctive strength of this work is the first four chapters where Carmen does an exceptional job of exegeting Genesis 1-11 in its ANE context with the focus on humans 'as the image of God' and the associated implications.From there, however, the book begins to lack focus a little bit, as the author briefly touches on a number of significant subjects, such as human suffering, racism, and environmentalism among a few. At times it felt as though the focus of the book shifted between the theological and/or practical function of the Imago Dei and the human experience with its challenging realities.Additionally, Chapter 9 explores Pauline emphasis on God creating a new humanity by reconciling and blessing both the Jews and the nations in Christ. I felt this chapter suffered a little bit from the singular focus on "undivided" new humanity, or "the third race" concept propagated by the New Perspective (NPP) on Paul (Carmen references Dunn and Wright who are the founding fathers of that school of thought). While Paul's contention in Ephesians aids Carmen's overall argument in favour of "undivided" new humanity, especially in her effort to develop a biblical theology of being human/God's image, in Romans Paul does draw a clear distinction between Jews and the Nations. The claim that in Christ people are "no longer divided" (p. 147) is not entirely accurate, when Jesus's mission was primarily to the lost sheep of Israel, and Paul laments the struggles of his own people to believe in Christ and stresses the priority of bringing the gospel to the Jewish people (Rom. 1.16). Any biblical theology of humanity, while celebrating the unity of Jews and the Nations in Christ, must also inevitably wrestle with the question of Jewish people/ethnic Israel because both Jesus and Paul had a heart for them.My review is inevitably critical because I am not a fan of any one particular scholar. Every scholar has bias, which is why it's important to read critically. Overall, this work is a solid biblical theology on being human in God's world. Buy it and read it.