Counsel #1 — Biblical Masculinity

Picture: Counsel #1 — Biblical MasculinityCI 74.1

Just as with the word “femininity,” “masculinity” does not occur either in the Bible or in the writings of Ellen White. So again, we will be looking for timeless principles to inform our study in this category.CI 74.2

In principle, the image of God is both male and female. Neither gender resembles God’s likeness more than the other. Outward manifestations of masculinity may change from culture to culture, era to era, but the principles of biblical masculinity endure.^{[71]https://ssnet.org/blog/male-female-in-his-image/}CI 74.3

“So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” Genesis 1:27 NKJVCI 74.4

“All who handle the word of God are engaged in a most solemn and sacred work; for in their research they are to receive light and a correct knowledge, that they may give to those who are ignorant. Education is the inculcation of ideas which are light and truth. Everyone who diligently and patiently searches the scriptures that he may educate others, entering upon the work correctly and with an honest heart, laying his preconceived ideas, whatever they may have been, and his hereditary prejudices at the door of investigation, will gain true knowledge.” Ellen White in Manuscript 4, 1896, par. 3CI 74.5

Reflect: How does your conception of God change as you’ve learned that His image is both male and female? CI 74.6