Sermon # 4 - In God's True Image Series

We read in Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (ESV)

The word of God counsels us as to the kind of thoughts that should fill our minds. As much as we are careful about our words and actions, the same caution needs to be exercised for our thought too. Lots of things that we perceive with our eyes, have a way of getting our attention, and making us think differently too. These thoughts that captivate our minds could be from what we see or also from things of the past that have a way of playing up in our minds. The word of God encourages us to entertain in our minds things that are true, and to let go of all those things that are false. When our mind is filled with true thoughts, our word will be honest and our actions authentic.

Man’s lofty plan that God disapproved

In Genesis 11:3-4, we read, And they said to one another, “Come, let us make bricks, and burn them thoroughly.” And they had brick for stone, and bitumen for mortar. Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the heavens, and let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be dispersed over the face of the whole earth.” (ESV)

The people at that time premised that the way to solve the problem of being scattered throughout the earth, was for them to join together and execute a unified plan. Their intention was to build a city and a tower that would probably reach up to the heavens, whereby they could also make a name for themselves. As they thought, they planned, and it seemed they also had the raw materials to execute this scheme. With this plan in mind, they realized that stones and mortar may not be sufficient, and hence proceeded to replace them with bricks and bitumen so that they could succeed in their strategy.

Have you thought about where man derived this skill to find ways, and means to execute a plan that pops up in his mind? This is the creative genius inside of man that is not found in any other created beings on the earth. Just look around, and we will be astounded to see the wonderful things that man has discovered and designed. The answer to this is found in the verse below.

We are created in God’s image

In Genesis 1:27, So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.(ESV)

Behind the creation of human beings is the hand of an Almighty and All-Wise God, who made men and women the crown of His creation. Since we have the image of God inside of us, the creative aspect of God is evident in all of mankind. Look at the variety in God’s creation for example in the vegetation around us. The assortment of trees, fruits, leaves and roots all so varied and unique, truly blows our minds.

If we were looking to purchase a car for instance, we are presented with umpteen choices. Each car is different from the other in its model, color, design, accessories and functioning. These are just a proof that we have a God who created us, and it is His image inside of us that enables us to perform just as He does.

Oftentimes when it comes to finding a solution to the problems we encounter, we try to sort them out ourselves, and don’t turn to our creator God for an answer. If we had an issue with our car for instance, the best place to take it would be to the authorized dealer who has the knowledge to solve the problem. Irrespective of what the issue or damage is, the mechanic is able to set it right, and give back the vehicle to us in perfect condition. As the manufacturers of the car, they alone have the aptitude to understand all of its details and functioning.

So also, we are created by God, and if we do not go to Him to set things right, but rather try to find our own solutions, we may end up causing more trouble for ourselves, and those around us. Let us go to the Lord every time we are faltering or stumbling with any difficulty or confusion, knowing that He has the answer to all of our problems.

These are the word of Jesus as found in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (ESV)