This research paper by Ben Walsh, submitted to Dr. Douglas F. Kelly for ST515 – Systematic Theology I at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, examines how the biblical doctrine of the imago Dei (image of God) shapes Christian understanding of human identity and sexuality. Walsh argues that homosexuality cannot be reconciled with the divine image because it distorts the relational, covenantal, and procreative purposes for which humanity was created.
The paper begins by surveying historical interpretations of the imago Dei, from the early church to Reformation thought. Drawing especially on Calvin and Berkouwer, Walsh defines the image of God not as a faculty of reason or emotion but as man’s relational and covenantal likeness to the Creator—called to reflect God’s righteousness, holiness, and love. Humanity’s creation as “male and female” establishes the pattern for relational complementarity and fruitfulness, meaning sexual union must serve God’s design for dominion and multiplication under His lordship.
Walsh then analyzes the Fall’s corruption of the image, arguing that sin disorders human desires and redirects them from God to self. Using Romans 1:18–27, he explains how homosexuality exemplifies humanity’s inversion of divine order—worshiping creation rather than the Creator. Yet, through Christ, the perfect image of God, believers are renewed to bear God’s likeness once more. The Spirit restores holiness and reorients desire toward God’s purposes, freeing humanity from sin’s distortion.
Walsh concludes that true identity cannot be found in sexual orientation but only in Christ, who renews the image of God in His people. Redemption restores humanity’s capacity to love God rightly and to live out sexuality as covenantal witness, reflecting divine glory in purity, love, and obedience.
Course and semester: ST515 Systematic Theology I — Spring 2018
