Context Study: Anthropomorphism

(5–8 minutes, easy setup)
Learners will consider how a literary device helps us know God better.

(5–8 minutes, easy setup)

Share that anthropomorphism is a literary device that portrays God in human terms. Say: The term comes from two Greek words, anthropos (“man”) and morphe (“form”). Anthropomorphisms are descriptions of God using words that indicate God has human physical form and these must be taken figuratively. Ask: What human physical forms are used to describe God in Psalm 139? (Hand, right hand, eyes)

Share the following about anthropomorphisms:

Anthropomorphisms are intended to depict an infinite God to finite human beings.
Most anthropomorphisms in the Bible occur in Old Testament prophecy and poetry.
These human-like terms are not meant to be taken literally because Scripture is clear that God is Spirit (see John 4:24).

Discuss: Is it helpful to portray God in human form for your understanding of Him? Why or why not?