Honoring the Other: The Imago Dei as a Foundational Doctrine for How the Church Treats the Marginalized

The church struggles to minister to those on the margins of society, frequently dehumanizing those it ministers to. This dissertation argues that a starting point for addressing this issue is a renewal of the imago Dei doctrine as the foundation of what it means to be human. Chapter One defines the problem by referring to two primary problem areas: poverty and displaced people. A definition of poverty is offered, and four primary approaches to alleviate poverty are examined. Causes and definitions of displacement of people from their homes are offered, and some current relief methods are evaluated. Finally, a fundamental starting point for ministering to these groups is the reinvigoration of the imago Dei as the fundamental definition of what it means to be human. Chapter Two examines potential definitions of what it means to be human by examining definitions from the sciences, ancient Hebraic, and Classical Greek thought with some critique of each. I suggest that the creation story in Genesis provides a way forward. Chapter Three examines the creation story of Genesis and its parallels with Mesopotamian and Egyptian literature. It also examines the other scriptures that directly reference the image in the book of Genesis. Chapter Four examines the differing views of the imago Dei throughout history. It argues for a holistic view of the image, which is intact despite the fall. Chapter Five traces the importance of how people treat other image-bearers through the Law and Prophets and then the New Testament scriptures. Chapter Six applies the dissertation to my current ministry context, offers some thoughts for further research, and provides some closing thoughts.