Even Better Than Eden by Nancy Guthrie
Week 9: Chapter 8 — The Image
Read Chapter 8 of Even Better than Eden. Primary passages: Genesis 1:26–27; Romans 8:29; 1 Corinthians 15:45–49; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Revelation 22:4.
Previewing Week 9 of Even Better Than Eden
Read 3 of 8 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 12-week guide when you’re ready.
Made in the image of God, humanity was meant to reflect God's glory into the world — but the image was marred at the fall. Guthrie traces how Christ, as the true image of God, restores and surpasses what Adam lost.
Discussion Questions
8 questions1.Genesis 1:26–27 says humanity was made in the 'image and likeness' of God. Before reading this chapter, how would you have explained what that means? How did Guthrie's treatment expand, correct, or confirm your understanding?
2.Guthrie argues that Adam, as the image of God, was meant to function as a kind of 'living idol' — representing God's authority and character throughout the earth. How does the fall corrupt that image-bearing function? Where do you see that corruption most clearly in the world around you and in yourself?
3.Paul calls Jesus 'the image of the invisible God' (Colossians 1:15) and 'the last Adam' (1 Corinthians 15:45). How does Jesus, as the true image-bearer, do what Adam failed to do? And what does his success mean for those who are united to him?
a.1 Corinthians 15 contrasts the first Adam ('a living being') with the last Adam ('a life-giving spirit'). What is the significance of that upgrade?
b.What does it mean that we will bear 'the image of the man of heaven' (v. 49)?