Counsels on Self-Identity

Counsel #18 — In His Likeness

Picture: Counsel #18 — In His Likeness CI 20.1

You’ve probably wondered at some point what God actually looks like. While we can’t fully know that yet, Jesus, as God in the flesh, gave us the clearest glimpse we’ve ever had of the Father. CI 20.2

Now, Jesus is the only human who fully embodies the glory and divine nature of God the Father, and the Holy Spirit. But here’s what’s amazing: as image-bearers of God, we were originally designed with a divine nature. However, when our first parents rebelled against God, they took on a sinful nature, passing it on to all humanity since, so we no longer have an untarnished divine nature as God originally intended. However, through the Holy Spirit working in us, we carry the fingerprints of God’s character - His capacity to love, to think deeply, to serve others, and to live with purpose. And the best part? As we lean into His divine nature, He covers us with His righteousness, continuously transforming us from the inside out, restoring His image in us.^[19] CI 20.3

What we receive from Him now is just the beginning. One day, when Jesus returns, our brokenness and scars will be gone, and we’ll stand in glorified bodies, perfectly restored in God’s divine image, forever. CI 20.4

“Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father?” John 14:9 NIV CI 20.5

“Christ alone is ‘the express image’ of the Father; but man was formed in the likeness of God.’ Ellen White in From Eternity Past, p. 17 CI 20.6

Reflect: How does the promise of a glorified body affect how you treat your current one? CI 20.7