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The Imago Dei
Humanity Made in the Image of God
Series: Cascade Companions
Imprint: Cascade Books
The doctrine of the imago Dei, that human beings are created in the "image and likeness of God," is an endlessly fascinating topic. Not only is it a central doctrine to Christian life and practice but also touches, perhaps even helps to form, every other doctrine of the Christian faith in one way or another. We do not think about God, in a Christian sense, as any other than the God who creates humanity in God's image. However, many of the details of this claim and what it means for human beings are left undefined by Hebrew and Christian Scriptures and it is not even mentioned in the creeds. This space leaves room for exploration. So the quest for what it means for human beings to be made in the image and likeness of God has never ceased to occupy theologians, clerics, and the laity alike. In this Companion, Peppiatt charts the developments of the doctrine through the ages, summarizing each position and perspective up to the modern day. This volume offers a compact but rich overview of the various ways in which this doctrine has been and is understood as well as pointing readers to further questions for consideration.
Lucy Peppiatt is the Principal of Westminster Theological Centre, UK, where she lectures in systematic theology and in spiritual formation. Her books include The Disciple (Cascade, 2012), Women and Worship at Corinth (Cascade, 2015), Unveiling Paul’s Women (Cascade, 2018), and Rediscovering Scripture’s Vision for Women (2019).
“This book not only introduces the traditional approaches to the imago Dei but also explores the latest debates accessibly. This is such a vast topic, and yet readers will move through the most important questions and responses with ease. Peppiatt’s prose is also a joy to read!”
—Gabrielle Thomas, Candler School of Theology, Emory University
“Lucy Peppiatt conveys the profound truths of the Christian gospel in ways that are academically rigorous, consistently oriented to the life of discipleship, and admirably clear. . . . The result is an eminently readable account that introduces the reader to the historical debates and offers fresh contemporary insight.”
—Murray Rae, University of Otago
“This is a relevant and compelling overview, rooted in biblical scholarship, church tradition, contextual studies, contemporary considerations, and personal insights. A must-read for church leaders—or anyone—interested in shaping contemporary mission and ministry in informed and effective ways.”
—Kate Coleman, Founder and Codirector, Next Leadership
“In the quest to understand the imago Dei doctrine, one can find no better guide that Peppiatt’s The Imago Dei. Peppiatt explains the major theological positions clearly and explores their ramifications for understanding the human body, other creatures, and the created world. . . . This slim volume holds a treasure of information and provides an invaluable resource for pastor, professor, and student alike.”
—Lynn H. Cohick, Northern Seminary
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