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Two Views of the Place of Humans
Read Genesis 1.
 
The beginning of Genesis speaks to the purpose of humankind. Consider carefully why God made humans and what he says to them. What is the purpose of humans according to Genesis 1?
 
Consider the relationship of humans and the created realm. In what ways do the heavens and the earth and all that is in them contribute to the humans’ place within the created realm? How are human beings different than the rest of the things God created? How are human beings similar to the rest of the things that God created? What is the place of human beings within the world he created?
 
Read Psalm 8.
 
What indicates the psalmist is reflecting on creation from the perspective of Genesis 1? What is different about the psalmist’s emphasis regarding human beings from that of Genesis 1? What is the purpose of the psalmist’s reflection?

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