Modern Westerners take it for granted that every life is valuable.
This lesson looks at how the biblical idea that every human is made in the “image of God” has shaped the way our society today cares for the most vulnerable, and discusses whether a commitment to this idea is necessary for this kind of care to continue into the future.
You may want to do the earlier lesson on “The Image of God: The Concept, An Illustration, & The Impact” first, or use some material from that lesson as background information.
Introduce
Class Discussion
Display the Humphrey quote and discuss how important this idea is, and how much it should shape society. (Image of God – The Future Slides)
Research & Reflect
Students briefly research ‘Granny Dumping’ (or read a relevant news article) exploring why it happens and what it says about our society’s attitudes to the elderly or infirm, considering positive and negative motivations.
Students find three images that reflect how our society treats those who are vulnerable – good or bad.
Engage
Watch & Discuss
Watch the documentary excerpt ‘The Image of God – The Future’ (4:00).
Display the Justine Toh quote before the students write a one sentence summary of the concept of ‘Being made in the Image of God.’
Discuss what might be “beautiful” about showing care and respect to someone who isn’t successful or powerful by the world’s standards?
Read & Respond
Display the Nietzsche quote for students to view as they write answers to the following questions:
- What is your reaction to Nietzsche’s negative view of compassion?
- What worldview seems to be behind Nietzsche’s statement?
- Do you think what he says is logical based on his worldview?
Display the Rowan Williams quote and discuss the point made, and how someone like Nietzsche might respond.
Bible Study
Students read Matthew 25:31-40 and answer the questions:
- How does Jesus identify himself with the vulnerable in this passage?
- What motivation does this passage give Jesus’ followers for valuing and caring for the poor and marginalised?
Students read James 3:9-10 and answer the questions:
- Why does James condemn those who praise God but curse human beings?
- How do you think we should treat people if we believed that they “have been made in God’s likeness”?
Respond
Compose & Discuss
Students imagine that Nietzsche has tweeted his views on Christian compassion. They compose a series of 3-5 tweets replying to Nietzsche, using ideas from this lesson.
Discuss the groups of people or individuals that we struggle to see as made in the image of God. Consider why this is and what would change if we did.
Analyse & Record
Complete the analysis table to consider the way in which our society is responding to children with disability and those with dementia. (Image of God – The Future Slides)
Mini-debate
Facilitate a Mini-debate on the topic:
“Can universal human rights for all people, including the most vulnerable, continue without the notion that human beings are created in the ‘image of God’?”
Extension
- Clip: Zoe’s Story: Where Life Begins and Ends (8:08)
Students watch the clip and write a reflection on the points that are being made about the inherent value of human life?