What Is Man? Responding to Contemporary Challenges

From its very first chapter, the Bible makes it clear that human beings are unique within the created order. More than this, it defines our uniqueness by saying that we – both male and female – are made in the image and likeness of God himself (Genesis 1:26–27). The implications for this in terms of understanding our identity and recognising our responsibilities in life, are traced upwards to God and our relationship with him.

The post-Enlightenment era, in which we live, has reshaped and redefined our self-understanding as a race; and, despite its claim to usher in new freedoms, it has created a level of confusion, angst and social disintegration not witnessed before. Many Christians have been left floundering as to how we should respond.

Hence the theme for this year’s Ministers’ Conference. We as pastors have a unique responsibility, not only to lead our congregations towards a deeper knowledge of God; but, as Calvin so astutely points out, to a deeper knowledge of ourselves as well. This is the very essence of ‘wisdom’ in its purest form.

Our prayer for the conference is that as we are reminded of this great reality, we will be better equipped and emboldened to instruct our people more effectively.