The Greek word homoíōma, represented by G3667, conveys the concept of resemblance or likeness. Derived from a word meaning "to make like," it refers to a form or shape that is similar to something else. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible, used to describe both physical and abstract similarities.
In Scripture, G3667 is used to explain profound theological truths. It describes Christ being made in the likeness of men Philippians 2:7 and sent in the likeness of sinful flesh to condemn sin Romans 8:3. This highlights his identification with humanity. The word is also central to the believer's experience, who is "planted together in the likeness of his death" to also be in the likeness of his resurrection Romans 6:5. In contrast, it is used negatively to describe humanity exchanging the glory of God for an image made like corruptible man and animals Romans 1:23. Finally, it is used to describe the shapes of locusts in a prophetic vision Revelation 9:7 and to contrast the nature of sin before the law with the specific similitude of Adam's transgression Romans 5:14.
Several related words clarify the meaning of likeness and resemblance:
- G3444 morphḗ (form): This word appears alongside G3667 to describe the incarnation. Christ, existing in the form of God, took on the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men, showing a connection between essential nature and outward resemblance Philippians 2:7.
- G1504 eikṓn (image): In Romans, people exchanged God's glory for an image made in the likeness of corruptible things Romans 1:23. An eikṓn is a representation, while homoíōma describes its resemblance to the original.
- G5179 týpos (figure): This term is used in parallel with G3667 to establish Adam as a figure of Christ. While people sinned differently, not in the similitude of Adam's transgression, Adam himself serves as a pattern or figure pointing to the one who was to come Romans 5:14.
The theological weight of G3667 is significant, particularly in explaining core Christian doctrines:
- The Incarnation of Christ: The word is crucial for understanding how the Son of God became human. He came in the likeness of men and of sinful flesh, signifying a true yet sinless humanity (Philippians 2:7, Romans 8:3).
- Union with Christ: For believers, being joined to Christ is described as being planted together in the likeness of His death, which guarantees a future participation in the likeness of His resurrection Romans 6:5.
- The Nature of Idolatry: The term is used to define the error of idolatry as creating a false likeness of God from corruptible things, a central point in Paul's argument about human sin Romans 1:23.
In summary, G3667 moves beyond a simple notion of similarity. It is a key term for expressing the mystery of the incarnation, the reality of a believer's spiritual union with Christ, and the fundamental error of idolatry. From describing Christ's likeness to humanity to the believer's likeness to His death and resurrection, homoíōma provides a framework for understanding how one thing can correspond to another in both form and substance.
TRV