Many have wondered about the phrase “Let Us make man in Our image” in Genesis 1:26. Does this statement point to multiple divine beings? Could it be evidence of more than one God? Let’s take a closer look—not with assumptions, but with a careful examination of Scripture, reason, and practical understanding.
📜 The Verse in Question
“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness.’” (Genesis 1:26)
At first glance, the plural language—“Us” and “Our”—may seem to suggest more than one creator. But let’s examine a few critical points that can clarify the matter without jumping to conclusions.
🔎 1. Language and Majesty in Ancient Times
In many ancient cultures, rulers used what’s called a “plural of majesty”—a way of speaking that shows dignity, greatness, and authority. This is still used in formal monarchies today: a king might say, “We have decided…” even when he’s speaking alone.
This kind of speech reflects greatness, not a group. So when God says, “Let Us make,” He could be using that same majestic form—expressing the fullness of His power, wisdom, and authority.
📌 Example: A single president may say, “We declare a state of emergency,” though it’s one voice, one decision-maker. The weight of the office is behind the plural.
🔎 2. God Speaks with His Own Wisdom and Word
In Scripture, God’s Word and Spirit are often spoken of as expressions of Himself—not separate beings.
For example:
“By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth.” (Psalm 33:6)
This verse shows that God created through His own Word and Breath (Spirit), not by using someone else. Just as your mind and your words are not other persons beside you, but expressions of who you are, so is God’s Word.
📌 Example: A potter says, “Let us shape this clay” as he uses both his mind and his hands. It’s not two people. It’s one person working through different functions.
🔎 3. God Often Involves His Heavenly Court
Throughout the Old Testament, God is seen surrounded by angels or a heavenly council (Job 1:6; 1 Kings 22:19). He sometimes speaks in their presence, not because they are equal to Him, but as witnesses or messengers.
But when it comes to creating man in His own image, the Bible never says angels had a part.
“So God created man in His own image…” (Genesis 1:27)
Notice the shift: even though He said “Let Us,” the action is singular—God created. Only one divine source made humanity.
📌 Example: A teacher may say to her class, “Let us prepare to start the lesson,” but she is the one writing on the board and teaching. The invitation is communal; the action is individual.
🔎 4. Scripture Interprets Scripture
When we read the rest of the Bible, especially Isaiah 44:24:
“I am the Lord, who makes all things, who stretches out the heavens all alone, who spreads abroad the earth by Myself.”
God leaves no room for confusion—He created everything alone, by Himself. This eliminates the idea of multiple divine creators.
💡 Conclusion
The phrase “Let Us make man” does not point to multiple divine persons, but rather reflects the richness, power, and depth of the one true God. Whether it’s His Word, His Spirit, or His wisdom—these are not separate beings but the expressions of the same divine will.
When we allow Scripture to explain itself, the message becomes clear:
There is one Creator, one God, who made man in His image—not “their” image.
🔁 Reflection Questions
Why did God use plural language when acting alone?
Can a person express themselves in many ways without becoming multiple beings?
How can understanding God’s image help us understand our own identity?