In the image of the Image

Author: Adam Couchman
Publication date: 2023
ISBN number: 978‑0‑7283‑0359‑1
Volume: 60 pages SKUFP202
Publisher name: Fairacres Publications, SLG Press Convent of the Incarnation, Fairacres, Oxford 

Gregory of Nyssa is the most important author of the fourth century in relation to theological anthropology and was one of the most outspoken of the early Church Fathers on the subject of slavery.

Gregory’s theology is built upon his perception that Jesus Christ was truly human; therefore, to be human is to be made in the image of Christ. We cannot justify slavery if we accept that humans are made in God’s image, because slaves are no less made in the image of God than those who are free.

About the book

This book examines Gregory’s theology, how he understood and taught about the relationship of human beings to God, and how he applied this theology to the practical issue of slavery.

About the author

Adam Couchman is a doctoral candidate at the University of Divinity. His research considers the worshipping Jesus through the lens of the church’s credal confessions that he is fully human and fully Divine. His studies have also included research into the sacramentality of the ceremonies of The Salvation Army, and Christian holiness. He is Secretary to the Australian Consultation on Liturgy and a participating member of the English Language Liturgical Consultation Gregory of Nyssa’s Opposition to Slavery

Yarra Theological Union

Yarra Theological Union is an inclusive and welcoming community, Catholic by tradition and ecumenical in spirit. We are committed to being a community of scholarship, prayer and pastoral care. We offer theological education and ministerial formation, open to those who seek educational and personal transformation in changing contexts. Our mission is to equip people for various ministries in the churches: parishes, schools, hospitals, church agencies and in the world at large.

ytu.edu.au/