Men and Apes
Prepared by Bobby Stafford of the church of Christ at Granby, MO

Introduction: A Popular but Problematic Claim
We live in a world where the idea that man descended from apes is presented as settled science. From classrooms to television documentaries, the theory of evolution is promoted as unquestionable truth. But what does the evidence really say? And how does it measure up against the Word of God? This lesson explores the common claim that humans evolved from apes, and offers biblical and logical reasons why that idea simply doesn’t hold up.

Evolution's Core Claim: Man from Ape
At the heart of Darwinian evolution is the belief that man either descended from apes or shares a common ancestor with them. While modern evolutionists often try to soften the language, the core teaching remains: humans and apes are genetically linked and share a common evolutionary lineage. But is that true? And more importantly, does similarity in design mean sameness in origin?

Superficial Similarities, Substantial Differences
Yes, apes and humans have some similarities—both are mammals, have opposable thumbs, and share a degree of DNA. But similarity in design is expected if both were created by the same Designer. That doesn’t prove a shared ancestry. Consider this: human DNA is also remarkably similar to that of a fern! Yet no one claims we descended from plants. Let’s look at a few major physical differences between humans and apes: Apes do not walk upright by nature. Their skeletal structure requires them to walk on all fours, and they cannot sustain upright motion like humans. Human skulls are large, vaulted, and designed to support complex brain function. Ape skulls are flatter and smaller. Humans have a prominent nose bridge and lips formed of unique soft tissue. Apes lack these distinct features. The human spine and pelvis support an upright, bipedal posture. Apes have a different alignment entirely. Apes have opposable toes; humans do not. If evolution favored better traits, why would humans lose this supposed advantage? And these are only physical differences. The mental and spiritual differences are even more profound.

Humans Are Uniquely Made
Unlike apes, humans can think abstractly. We reason, plan, reflect, and imagine. We use complex language, not just sounds, but symbolic and metaphorical communication. We invent and create—tools, machines, literature, music. We appreciate art and beauty. We choose morality and establish justice systems. And most importantly, we worship. No ape has ever built an altar, formed a religion, or sought eternal life. These qualities belong only to humans.

Biblical Truth: Created in God’s Image
Genesis 1:26–27 declares that man was created in the image of God—not the image of an ape. God breathed into man the breath of life (Genesis 2:7). No other creature was given this eternal spirit. Ecclesiastes 12:7 says that when we die, “the spirit will return to God who gave it.” Jesus affirmed that humans have souls capable of judgment, repentance, and eternal reward or punishment. No ape faces judgment before God. Only man has this moral accountability.

Evolution’s Suppression of Dissent
Why don’t more scientists challenge evolution? Because the academic world treats evolution as a “sacred cow.” You can criticize religion, government, or culture—but not evolution. Highly qualified creationist scholars are often blacklisted simply because they reject Darwin’s claims. This isn’t science—it’s censorship. The truth is, many facts about biology and genetics disprove evolution, but they’re ignored because they don’t fit the evolutionary narrative.

The Impossible Gap
Despite all the claims of similarity, the gap between man and ape is unbridgeable. Apes can be trained, but they cannot be taught morality, abstract reasoning, or spiritual truth. They do not build civilizations, create libraries, or seek eternal life. Only mankind does that—because only mankind was made to do that.

Conclusion: God Made Us Special
We are not the products of random chance or the offspring of apes. We are God’s special creation, uniquely designed, morally accountable, and spiritually alive. We were made to seek Him, serve Him, and return to Him. Acts 17:28 says, “For in Him we live and move and have our being... For we are also His offspring.” Let us live like those who were made by God—not those who came from animals.

Sermon Outline: Men and Apes
I. Introduction – Popular culture teaches man evolved from apes; but what does Scripture and real evidence say?
II. Evolution’s Claim Examined – Common ancestry between apes and humans; similarity does not prove origin
III. Physical Differences – Posture, cranial design, opposable toes; skull, teeth, spine, and birth structures
IV. Mental and Spiritual Differences – Abstract reasoning, morality, language; worship, creativity, and purpose
V. Created in God’s Image – Genesis 1–2; Ecclesiastes 12:7; unique among all creatures
VI. Evolution’s Censorship – Suppression in academia; truth ignored if it contradicts Darwin
VII. The Unbridgeable Gap – Apes cannot think, invent, or worship; man is morally and spiritually distinct
VIII. Conclusion: God's Offspring – Acts 17:28 – We are His; we must live like we were made by Him

Call to Action
Don’t let the world define your origin. You are not the result of mindless evolution—you are made by the living God. Believe in Him. Obey His gospel. Be baptized into Christ (Galatians 3:27). Live with purpose. Your life has eternal value—because you were created in the image of God.

Scripture References:
Genesis 1:26–27; Genesis 2:7; Ecclesiastes 12:7; Acts 17:28; Galatians 3:27; Romans 1:20; Psalm 139:14; Hebrews 2:6–8