The Greek word eikṓn, represented by G1504, defines a likeness, representation, or resemblance. It appears 23 times across 20 unique verses, encompassing both literal objects, such as a statue or profile, and the figurative representation of a person or divine being.
In scripture, G1504 is used in several distinct ways. Literally, it refers to the image on a coin, as when Jesus asks whose image and superscription is on the penny (Matthew 22:20, Mark 12:16). Figuratively, it is used to describe idolatry, where the glory of God is exchanged for an image made to look like corruptible man, birds, and beasts Romans 1:23. This theme is prominent in Revelation, where those who worship the image of the beast face torment Revelation 14:11, and the saints are those who have not worshipped his image Revelation 20:4. The most significant use of the term is to identify Christ as the very image of the invisible God Colossians 1:15 and the image of God whose glorious gospel shines forth 2 Corinthians 4:4.
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of G1504:
- G1391 dóxa (glory): This word is frequently contrasted with or linked to G1504. Humanity exchanged the glory of God for an image Romans 1:23, while man is described as the image and glory of God 1 Corinthians 11:7.
- G4352 proskynéō (worship): This term defines the action directed toward an G1504, distinguishing true worship from false. Many passages in Revelation describe the damnation of those who worship the image of the beast (Revelation 14:9, Revelation 19:20).
- G4832 sýmmorphos (conformed to): This word explains the process by which believers are shaped to reflect a divine G1504. Believers are predestinated to be conformed to the image of His Son Romans 8:29.
- G3339 metamorphóō (transform): This describes the change that occurs in believers as they behold the Lord's glory, being changed into the same image 2 Corinthians 3:18.
The theological weight of G1504 is centered on representation and identity, both divine and human.
- Christ as the Perfect Image: Christ is the ultimate revelation of God to humanity, described as "the image of the invisible God" Colossians 1:15. He is the perfect representation, making the unseen God seen.
- Humanity's Mandate and Failure: Man is created as the image and glory of God 1 Corinthians 11:7. However, humanity fell into sin, exchanging God's glory for a corruptible image Romans 1:23.
- The Believer's Transformation: Redemption involves a restoration of this image. Believers are predestined to be conformed to the image of Christ Romans 8:29, put on the new man which is renewed after the image of the Creator Colossians 3:10, and ultimately bear the image of the heavenly 1 Corinthians 15:49.
- The Antithesis of Idolatry: The worship of the beast's image in Revelation is the final, ultimate form of idolatry, standing in direct opposition to the worship of God through His true image, Jesus Christ Revelation 20:4.
In summary, G1504 is a crucial theological term that moves from the literal to the profound. It establishes Christ as the perfect likeness of the Father, defines humanity's original purpose and its restored destiny in Christ, and serves as the benchmark against which all false worship and idolatry are judged. The concept of the image is central to understanding who God is, who Christ is, and what believers are called to become.
TRV