Genesis

The intent of this question is to reinforce how God had an organized process and purpose in creation.

God created the inanimate world: matter, atmosphere, vegetation. These possessed no consciousness on their part. They were the foundation of life yet to be created. God then created the animate world: fish, birds, and animals. This represented consciousness but were not in the full image of God as man would be.

All these activities were done in an orderly and purposeful manner to support the next act of creation. The creation of time, space and matter enabled the earth and all of its elements to be created and sustained. Then plant life and animal life were created with the necessary environment to sustain them as well.

They share a common creator, are interdependent and supportive, and can reproduce. They differ in their level of consciousness, self-awareness and level of spiritual awareness.

Responses will vary but if not stated, include: This is the first indication of God's dynamic nature with the use of the plural pronoun "Us" in reference to Himself. This also states that God is endowing elements of His own character and being in His creation of man. He did not impart these to the other parts of creation.

"Image" has many related concepts, for example: resemblance, figure, model or shape. Put together we see that man is made to resemble God. This does not mean that man possesses all the characteristics or qualities of God. Later, Satan would use this reality as part of his plan to bring sin into the world as he interacts with Eve (Genesis 3:5). However, there are characteristics man possesses that are gifts from God such as free will, the ability to communicate and other qualities beyond the capabilities of creatures brought forth earlier.

Man is formed from inanimate elements (matter). He has consciousness like animate creatures and is also aware of himself. Man possesses the spiritual nature of God which includes free will, the ability to communicate with all of creation, including other humans and God Himself.

Although animals communicate, it is in a much more limited way. Other elements creation elements lack the qualities of free will and a sense of morality. Other creatures react from instinct rather than reason and purpose as does man. Furthermore, man's spiritual nature is eternal.

God placed man over creation. God's use of the term "dominion" means man is to reign over or be over creation. This is more of a stewardship role where man interacts with creation for its continued existence and purpose.

God commissions man to thrive in the environment He created for him. God indicates that everything He created is to sustain and enable man to live. This is summed up with the statement that "it was very good." This added emphasis shows God's satisfaction with His creation. All of creation, including man, has not been created in a pure and sinless environment.

Man was not an afterthought of God. God clearly creates a perfect environment to sustain life for His greatest and crowning achievement, the creation of man. Man was in the image of God, including the ability to choose. Sadly, we do not always choose wisely. For that reason, God also created a plan through which we can be reconciled to Him. This plan is fulfilled through His Son, Jesus. Jesus is the only way to be reconciled to God (John 14:6). We must believe this and act upon it as God directs and help others come to this knowledge as well.