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    Stonestreet says that today men and women are still made “in God’s likeness, able to reflect God’s love, glory and holiness.” Our moral likeness – moral obedience and intimate communion – is redemption, renewal of original moral likeness. (Ephesians 4:22-24). We are “like,” but not divine, a lower order, dependent on God. (Psalm 8:5).

    Our purpose is to rule the earth and animal kingdom, and to make family relationships – God, family, children – our priority. (Ephesians 5:21). We could live God’s purposes to a far greater extent than we do.

   Sin brought ruin, futility and suffering to creation. At the end of the age, Jesus will restore earth. (Romans 8:19-25; Hebrews 2:5-8; Revelation 21:1).

   On the 7^th day (Genesis 2:3) God made it sacred and special, a day of rest, a memorial to completed creation. It is a blessing (Exodus 20:8), set aside for service and communion with him (Exodus 16:29).

   Mr. Stonestreet explains, “God (Elohim) is the general name for his greatness and power. Lord (Yahweh) is his personal, covenant name, representing kindness, redemption, nearness and faithful presence. 'Lord God' is our powerful creator in covenant relationship.”

   He continues, “Genesis 2:7 is the special act of life for humans, distinctive. Able to choose to obey or disobey. The tree of life is accessed in the new heaven and earth (Revelation 2:7, 22:2)."

   “In Genesis 2:15, Adam was meant to work under God’s direction. The human race is still bound to God by belief, obedience and truth. In Genesis 2:24, the family became the first and most important institution in creation, with male and female united physically and spiritually.”

   Nothing in God’s plan includes or invites or rewards adultery, polygamy, homosexuality, immoral living or unscriptural divorce. (Mark 10:7-9).

     Jimmy