When looking at the context and verses prior to Genesis 1:26–31, we see God creating the heavens, land, water, vegetation, evening, morning, the sun, moon and stars, sea creatures, birds, and other various animals. Although these are all great things, only one element was missing: humanity. God saved the creation of humanity as the last element of his glorious design. When looking through Genesis 1, we do not see God referring to any other element of his creation as being made in “our image, after our likeness.” You also do not see God giving dominion to the animals or anything else, but to humanity only. This is not just a coincidence, but it has great purpose and intention for us today.