The Value of Human Life and the Image of God - Genesis 9:6

Date: 8/3/2026

Place: Trinity Baptist in Charlesworth, near Glossop

Preacher: Benedict Allmand-Smith

Bible Passage: Genesis 9:6

Listen Below:

Image-Bearers

43:14

Genesis 9:6 Explained: The Value of Human Life and the Image of God

Introduction

Genesis 9:6 teaches a foundational truth: every human life is sacred because God made us in his image. This verse lays the foundation for understanding the value of human life, the moral responsibility of humanity, and God’s authority over life. In this article, we explore what it means to be an image-bearer of God, why human life is inherently valuable, and practical applications for Christians today.

Why Human Life Is Valuable

Human beings are unique because we are created in the image of God (Genesis 9:6). This gives us the capacity for moral awareness, rational thought, and the ability to act according to God’s will (Ecclesiastes 7:29; Colossians 3:9–10). Sin has marred that image, but through Christ’s sacrifice, the restoration of humanity is underway (Isaiah 52:14, Colossians 3:9-10).

Every person has intrinsic value – not because of accomplishments or usefulness – but because God imprinted his image upon us. As Matthew Poole reminds us, murder is “not only an offence against man, but also an injury to God and a contempt of that image of God.” This principle also extends to self-harm: human life is too precious to be taken lightly.

God’s Authority Over Human Life

Genesis 9:6 also demonstrates that God reserves authority over human life. While humanity has dominion over creation, God has placed a special boundary around human life. The death penalty principle in Genesis 9:6 is applied by governing authorities (Romans 13:1–4), not individuals.

Jesus reinforces this in Mark 12, saying, “Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” If a coin bearing Caesar’s image belongs to him, then humanity – bearing God’s image – belongs to God. Even unjust anger toward others is sinful (Matthew 5), showing that respect for all human life begins with recognizing God’s image in everyone.

Six Applications of Genesis 9:6 for Christian Life

1. God Alone Has Authority Over Life

Human life has value because God made us in his image. Philosophies justifying suicide or assisted suicide, whether based on ideas of freedom, existentialism, or postmodernism, ignore this truth. Only God has authority over life and death.

2. We Cannot Judge When Someone Is Ready to Meet God

Every person will stand before God to give an account. No one – governments, doctors, or individuals – can decide who is ready to meet Him. Life and death belong to the Lord alone.

3. For Christians, Suicide Shows a Lack of Contentment in God’s Providence

Psalm 46:10–11 reminds believers to “be still, and know that I am God.” Taking one’s life expresses distrust in God’s care rather than faith in his providence.

4. The Believer’s Life Belongs to Christ

“To live is Christ” (Philippians 1:21). Christians are twice-owned by God: first as Creator, second as Redeemer. Our lives exist to glorify him through sanctification and service.

5. Suicide Is a Heinous Sin Against God’s Image

Suicide is self-murder, a grievous sin against God. Paul exhorts believers to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). Taking one’s own life would make the final act before an individual met God one of grave disobedience

6. Christians Are Called to Die Well, Following Christ

Jesus’ death on the cross shows the proper way to die: in faith, obedience, and concern for others. Christians are called to emulate his example, trusting God and honouring the image of God in themselves and others.

Human life is sacred because we bear God’s image. As believers, we are called to respect, honour, and protect that life – both in ourselves and in others – living faithfully until God calls us home.

If you live in Charlesworth or Glossop or, anywhere else,  and would like to join us for worship, you are warmly welcome to visit our church.