Bay Leaf Baptist Church

In this sermon "Who I am in light of who God is," Pastor Patrick Austin explored Genesis 1:26-31 to address the fundamental question of human identity in a world full of lies and confusion. He began by establishing that since the Bible starts with "In the beginning, God" rather than "In the beginning, man," we must understand ourselves in comparison to God, not as the standard ourselves. Pastor Austin presented four Biblical truths that counter prominent worldly lies about identity. First, we are created by God in His image, meaning we're designed to live godly lives and in relationship—not that we are God ourselves. Second, we are blessed with God-given purpose to fill the earth with worshipers and subdue creation through faithful stewardship—not to determine our own purpose. Third, we are sustained by God as dependent creatures who need our heavenly Father's provision—not self-sufficient beings. Fourth, we are loved by God, with Him declaring His creation "very good"—not unlovable as many believe. The pasto