What does it really mean to be human, and how does understanding our identity shape the way we follow Jesus?

In this episode of the Core Podcast, Pastor Luke Bilberry sits down with Andee Mesman and Pastor Brian Ball to explore the doctrine of humanity and what it means to be created in the image of God. This conversation examines humanity's original design, the effects of sin, and the hope of becoming a new creation through Jesus Christ.

Together, they unpack how Scripture provides a foundation for understanding who we are and why we're here. Along the way, they discuss work, relationships, parenting, community, and the tension of living as redeemed people in a broken world. You'll hear personal reflections, as well as practical encouragement for living as ambassadors of Christ.

The world tells us to create our own identity. Scripture tells us we were lovingly created by God with purpose, value, and meaning. This episode is designed to help you see yourself through the lens of God's Word, embrace your identity as an image-bearer, and live more fully as the person God created you to be.

In this episode:

• What it means to be created in the image of God
• Why every human life possesses inherent value
• How sin fractured our relationship with God, others, ourselves, and creation
• The difference between finding identity in culture and finding identity in Christ
• Why work matters and how it can glorify God
• What it means to put off the old self and walk as a new creation in Christ
• Living as ambassadors of Jesus in a broken world

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About this Podcast

This podcast is an 11-week companion to the Core Series at Chapel Pointe Church. Through deep theological conversations with our pastors, our goal is to help you build a deeper understanding of the core truths of Christianity and apply them to your life.

From the Bible and Jesus to salvation and the church, our prayer is that you don't just grow in knowledge but that you gain a deeper appreciation for the love, grace, and movement of God in your life. Visit chapel-pointe.org/core-series for a full list of resources, including sermons, discussion guides, and more.

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

00:45 Sermon Takeaways on Humanity

03:46 Our Identity as Image Bearers

09:37 The Fall and Brokenness

22:01 Cultural Lies and Biblical Truth

26:08 Brian’s Experience in China

27:09 Trusting God’s Hidden Plan

28:18 Is Humanity Good or Bad?

32:31 Putting On the New Self

45:18 Ambassadors and Final Blessing

Resources Mentioned in this Episode

Desiring God by John Piper — https://www.desiringgod.org/books/desiring-god

Kid’s Storybook Bible — https://www.zonderkidz.com/book/9780310708254/the-jesus-storybook-bible/