Key Takeaways

God became like us so we could become like him. 

We all have things about ourselves, especially our physical bodies, that we wish we could change. Humans, however, are so much more than the sum of what we like, and don’t like, about ourselves. We are made in the image of God. Through his son Jesus he shows us exactly what it means to truly be human, and how we can grow into the people we were always meant to be.

• Made in the Image of God: The Bible tells us that every human is made in the image of God. That means every person has inherent dignity and worth. We don’t earn God’s image – we are born into it.
• Sin covers up the image: Sin has covered us and tarnished the image of God in us. The image is not completely erased, but it blurs the way we see God, ourselves, and each other. It changes how we view and use our bodies, relationships, and desires.
• Jesus came in the form of a human body: We all sin and we all need to be rescued and forgiven. We can’t do that by working harder or achieving more. That is why Jesus came in the form of a human body – to show us what it looks like to truly be a human who is fully surrendered to God.
• Children of God: Every person is made in the image of God, but it is only those who believe and accept Jesus who become children of God. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior we are spiritually reborn and can recover what sin took from us.
• Growing up: It only takes a moment to be born, but it takes a long time to grow up – physically and spiritually. As we continue to pursue Jesus and look to him for what it means to be human, we will steadily grow up into who we were always meant to be.

Want a printable version of this Message Guide? Download it through the link below!

Pray

As you pray, thank God for giving us the perfect example through Jesus, and ask him to continue shaping your life to reflect his character.

Father,

Thank you for coming to us in human form through your son, Jesus. In him, you gave us the perfect example of what it looks like to live in your image. Thank you for not only telling us how to live, but showing us through his life.

We desire to become more like you, yet we know we fall short. Remind us that because of what Jesus has done, we are your children. Help us rest in the security of your grace rather than becoming discouraged by our imperfections. Teach us to remember that spiritual growth is a lifelong process.

Thank you for your grace when we stumble and for your mercy that is new every morning. Thank you for leaving the comfort of heaven to reveal the depth of your love and to make a way for us to be restored to you.

For it’s in Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Worship

Bring the worship set from this weekend into your Slot and Spot and praise him for making you in his image.

Can’t Help but Praise – Jordan Colle

Bless God – Brooke Ligertwood

Inhabit – Lakewood Music

Learn

This week, read through the scripture shared in the message and dive deeper into God’s word.

So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. – John 1:14

• Scripture – Genesis 1:26-27
• Scripture – 1 Timothy 3:16
• Scripture – John 1:12-14
• Read – In His Image – a 6 day devotional
• Watch – Image of God from Bible Project
• Listen –John 1 from Through the Word

Reflect

Reflect on these questions during your slot and spot/discussions with others.

Is there any part of yourself you have ever wished you could change? Why?

• What do you think influences that desire?

Read Genesis 1:26-27. What does it mean to you to be made in the image of God?

• Does recognizing that you are made in God’s image change the way you see yourself? How does it impact your view of the parts you wish you could change?
• How might embracing your identity as God’s image-bearer influence your relationships and decisions?
• As you consider that all people are made in the image of God, are there any attitudes you have toward others that feel challenged?

Pastor Mark reminds us that though we are all made in God’s image, only those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior can become his children.

• How does understanding this distinction impact your view of God’s love and mercy?
• What steps can you take to grow up in your faith and live out your role as a child of God?

Considering what you have learned from the teaching this week, what next step do you feel God calling you to take in your faith right now?

• How do you believe that step would impact your faith, life, and relationships?

Next Steps

• Grow up in your faith by choosing to look to God’s Word for guidance. Every day this week, set aside a slot and spot – a time on your calendar, and a place you go alone – to read the Bible and pray.

• Take a next step in your faith by joining us for Plugged In, a simple, three-step path designed to help you find your place, purpose, and part in our community of faith.

What’s one thing you learned from this message that you want to apply to your life this week? Share it in the comment section below.