Theology Terms Explained: “Anthropology”
In this series on the blog, we’re providing sound doctrine for everyday people by providing you with clear and simple definitions that will strengthen your theological foundation. Each article covers 4 categories including:
The Term – We lay out how it’s pronounced.
The Definition – We provide the Merriam-Webster definition and an everyday version.
The Biblical Connection – We show you where the term connects with Scripture.
Used in an Everyday Conversation – We use it in a basic conversation.
The Term
an·thro·pol·o·gy | \ ˌan-thrə-ˈpä-lə-jē \
The Definition
Merriam-Webster: The study of human beings.
FTG’s Expanded Explanation:
Biblical anthropology is the study of humanity as God created and defines it in Scripture. The Bible teaches that humans are made in the image of God, giving every person inherent dignity, value, and worth. At the same time, Scripture is clear that humanity is fallen and corrupted by sin in every part of our nature.
This doctrine explains why humans are capable of great creativity, love, and good but also great evil, injustice, and rebellion. We are not basically good people who simply need improvement, nor are we meaningless accidents of chance. We are image-bearers who are morally accountable to God and desperately in need of redemption.
A right understanding of anthropology is essential for understanding sin, salvation, human identity, justice, and the gospel itself.
The Biblical Connection
Genesis 1:26–27 — “Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness…’ God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”
Psalm 8:4–5 — “What is man that You take thought of him… Yet You have made him a little lower than God, and You crown him with glory and majesty!”
Romans 3:23 — “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
Ephesians 2:1–3 — “And you were dead in your trespasses and sins… and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.”
From creation to the fall to redemption, Scripture presents humanity as valuable, fallen, accountable, and redeemable through Christ alone.
Used in an Everyday Conversation
“People matter because they’re made in God’s image, but everyone still needs a Savior.”
“Biblical anthropology explains both human dignity and human depravity.”
“If you misunderstand sin, you’ll misunderstand people and the gospel.”
“The gospel only makes sense once you understand what the Bible says about humanity.”
