The Likeness of God
The work explores the concept of humanity's creation in the likeness of God, emphasizing the importance of righteousness and true holiness as fundamental aspects of divine life. It interprets St. Paul's exhortation to be renewed in the spirit of one's mind, urging individuals to embody the new man, modeled after Christ. The text argues that true righteousness is rooted in justice and honesty, contrasting it with false forms of holiness that prioritize ritual over moral integrity. It critiques the tendency of individuals to seek complex forms of righteousness, which detracts from the simplicity of being just and truthful. The author highlights the dangers of spiritual pride and the misconception that moral virtues can exist independently of divine grace. The work asserts that genuine goodness, characterized by justice and truth, is the essence of true religion and should be the focus of one's life. It calls for a recognition that these virtues are gifts from God, necessitating prayer and reliance on divine assistance to maintain them. Ultimately, the text advocates for a life grounded in moral integrity, suggesting that such a life aligns with the divine nature and fulfills the true purpose of humanity.
By Charles Kingsley · First published 1853 · Genre: Religious, Christian Literature, Philosophical · 2,225 words
First lines
EPHESIANS IV. 23, 24. And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
BE renewed, says St. Paul, in the spirit of your mind-in the tone, character, and habit of your mind. And put on the new man, the new pattern of man, who was created after God, in righteousness and true holiness.
What this Textopian page supports
The Likeness of God is listed on Textopian as a speech by Charles Kingsley, dated 1853 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Speech
- Author: Charles Kingsley
- Date: 1853 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious, Christian Literature, Philosophical, Inspirational
- Length: 2,225 words
- Structure: 1 section, 22 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Likeness of God by Charles Kingsley
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Genres
- Religious — The title and work of Charles Kingsley suggests a strong religious theme as it discusses the concept of the likeness of God.
- Christian Literature — Charles Kingsley is known for his Christian writings and theological discourses, and this title implies a discussion of Christian themes.
- Philosophical — The subject of the likeness of God often prompts discussions of identity, human nature, and purpose, key elements in philosophical writings.
- Inspirational — Religious and philosophical texts often aim to inspire their readers with new concepts and interpretations of spiritual beliefs.
Tags
religion · theology · Christianity · spirituality · philosophy · nature · morality · humanity · divinity · faith · identity · existence