The answer
The love of God created man so that He may delight in a loving relationship with man, and so that man may participate in a life of immense and everlasting joy with Him.
This means that the source of joy is the union of man with God, which is manifested as follows:
- 1. Possession of full psychological faculties: i.e. an illumined mind, a strong will, good love, a pure intention, etc.
- 2. Dominion over nature: It will not revolt against man, nor will it harm him, be a source of trials or tribulations, or prey on him.
- 3. Link between God and the universe: Man directs creation in the name of God, lifting up to Him the praises of nature.
- 4. Immortality: The union of man’s dwelling in God.
Therefore, we say that because of God’s goodness and graciousness, He formed man so that he may enjoy life and existence with God, and if he conducts himself well, he will be graced with eternity. God loved us before we were fashioned, and so He created us.
His Holiness Pope Tawadros II
Pope Tawadros II, My Faith: A Series of Dialogues on the Creed (Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate, 2014), 40–41.
The pages in the book (40–41)
