Making Sense of Man
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Who are we, and why do we matter? In Making Sense of Man, Vern S. Poythress offers biblical perspectives to develop a theology of humanity.
The Image of God
This book is a comprehensive tome on human nature. It is an academic read, enriching for anyone who has begun to study the Bible seriously. Pastors and scholars will also benefit from its rich explorations of systematic and biblical theology.
The book begins by examining various topics related to humanity in Genesis 1-3, including the origin of humanity, its original condition, and the nature of human beings. The first section culminates in a deep dive into the significant topic of the image of God. Interestingly, Poythress concludes this section by turning to Acts 2, where the church is seen as a people who reflect or “image” God. He connects what happens at Pentecost to the broader theme of the image of God.
Lex Christi
I was particularly moved in Part 2, where Poythress presents The Framework of Lex Christi (The Law of Christ), developed by Timothy P. Yates. This framework begins with the principle that God’s character is revealed in His law—specifically in the Ten Commandments. When humans obey God’s law, we display His attributes. Looking at Christ, we see the perfect embodiment of the law, along with the harmony between His divine and human nature. Christ’s life and teachings exemplify how we are to live the Christian life, all to the glory of God.
Part 4 tackles the complex subjects of body and soul. Poythress builds a compelling case for the dichotomy of body and soul, showing how humans have both an inner and outer nature. He concludes that proper biblical interpretation reveals that the concept of trichotomy (body, soul, and spirit) has no solid biblical foundation.
Our Brilliant Creator
Parts 5 and 6 cover the pre-fall covenant with Adam and aspects of covenantal life, including human sexuality. Poythress firmly upholds the biological realities of sex and procreation while advocating for harmony between men and women.
The book concludes with an exploration of fallen man, addressing the nature of the fall, sin, total depravity, and total inability. Comprehensive and careful, stimulating and Scriptural, Making Sense of Man is an extraordinary work that illuminates both the beauty of humanity and the brilliance of our Creator.
I received a media copy of Making Sense of Man and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.