Hoekema argues that the "image of God" is not something human beings have, but something they are. He rejects the older theological distinction (common in medieval theology) that separated the "image" (narrower, referring to rationality) from the "likeness" (broader, referring to ethical righteousness). Instead, Hoekema asserts that these terms in Genesis 1:26-27 are synonymous, describing the total human being.

He categorizes the image of God into two dimensions:

If you need help finding a legal way to access the book (e.g., through interlibrary loan or a free trial of a theological ebook service), let me know. I can also provide more detailed notes on specific chapters if you tell me your focus (e.g., the fall, gender, eschatology).

A Guide to Understanding "Created in God's Image" by Hoekema

Introduction

"Created in God's Image" is a theological book written by Anthony Hoekema, a Reformed theologian. The book explores the concept of humanity being created in the image of God, delving into its biblical, theological, and practical implications. This guide provides an overview of the book's main points, key takeaways, and discussion questions.

Book Overview

In "Created in God's Image," Hoekema examines the biblical doctrine of humanity's creation in God's image (imago Dei). He argues that this concept is essential to understanding human nature, dignity, and purpose. The book is divided into three main sections:

Key Takeaways

Discussion Questions

Conclusion

"Created in God's Image" by Anthony Hoekema offers a rich exploration of the biblical doctrine of humanity's creation in God's image. This guide provides a starting point for further study and reflection on the implications of this doctrine for our lives and relationships.

Additional Resources

For those interested in further study, Hoekema's book is available in various formats, including PDF, eBook, and paperback. You can find free PDF versions online or purchase the book through online retailers.

References

Searching for a "free PDF" of Anthony Hoekema’s Created in God’s Image

often leads to unofficial or copyrighted uploads. To help you engage with this seminal work on biblical anthropology legally and effectively, Core Themes of "Created in God's Image"

Hoekema explores what it means to be human from a Reformed, biblical perspective.

The Imago Dei as Mirror and Ambassador: Humans are designed to reflect God’s character (mirror) and represent His authority on earth (ambassador).

Wholeness of Personhood: He argues that the image of God isn't just in the "soul" but includes the body. Humans are "psychosomatic" unities—both material and immaterial.

The Threefold State: The book tracks the image through three stages: Original Image: Humanity before the Fall. Perverted Image: The distortion of the image due to sin.

Renewed Image: The restoration of the image through Christ and grace.

Relational Nature: Hoekema emphasizes that the image is lived out in three relationships: toward God, toward others, and toward nature. Legitimate Ways to Access the Work Review: 'Created in God's Image' by Anthony A. Hoekema

In his seminal work Created in God's Image , theologian Anthony Hoekema

argues that the "Imago Dei" (Image of God) is not just a static quality we possess, but the very "heart of Christian anthropology"

. He presents a dynamic view where being human means existing in a constant, multifaceted relationship with God, others, and the world. The Core Paradox: Mirror and Representative

Hoekema defines the image of God through two primary metaphors: The Mirror

: We are designed to reflect God’s nature, character, and glory to the rest of creation. The Representative

: Like an ambassador, we are called to represent God's authority and advance His "program" for the world. The Gospel Coalition The Two Dimensions of the Image

A central pillar of Hoekema's thesis is the distinction between structural and functional aspects, which he considers inseparable: Academia.edu Structural

: This refers to "what kind of being" we are—our capacities like reason, morality, and will. Functional

: This refers to "what we do". Hoekema famously posits that the image of God should be thought of as a

, not just a noun; we "image" God through our actions, specifically through love. Academia.edu The Four Stages of the Image

Hoekema tracks the Imago Dei through a redemptive-historical lens: The Original Image

: Humanity as first created, in perfect relationship with God. The Perverted Image : Following the Fall, the image is distorted but

. We still have the structural capacity to image God, but we use those "God-reflecting powers" perversely to sin. The Renewed Image

: Through grace and the Holy Spirit, the image is being progressively restored in believers as they are conformed to Christ, the "perfect image-bearer". The Perfected Image

: The final state of humanity in the eschaton (the end times), where the reflection of God will be fully realized. Humanity in Threefold Relationship

Hoekema argues that to be truly human is to be directed in three ways: Toward God (Vertical) : Acknowledging our total dependence on Him. Toward Others (Horizontal)

: Recognizing that humans are social beings; we are incomplete in isolation. Toward Nature

: Fulfilling the "cultural mandate" to exercise stewardship and dominion over the earth as God's vice-regents. The Gospel Coalition Accessing the Work

While full copyrighted texts are rarely legally free, you can find substantial previews, summaries, and digital editions through authorized platforms: Hoekema, Anthony (Created in God - S Image) | PDF - Scribd

Why are you looking for a free PDF? Maybe:

Pro tip: Email the author’s publisher. Eerdmans has a permissions desk. Explain you’re a student in a developing country and ask for a complimentary digital copy. Sometimes they say yes.

Many Reformed seminaries (Westminster, Calvin, RTS) post free lecture notes summarizing Hoekema. Search: “Hoekema image of God lecture notes PDF” – these are legal teaching resources.