GENESIS: Reboot Study
Chapter 3
PART 1
By Dr. Robert Fieldhouse, Disciples Path Ministry – St. Augustine, Fla.
Up to this point, prayerfully, it has become evident that just the first two chapters of the Book of Genesis offer decades, if not a lifetime, of research, debate, and reflection. Whether I succeed or not, I aim to present what is considered Scripture and how I understand what we are Blessed with through the efforts of the author or authors of the Book of Genesis. As we progress in our study, let me remind you that I do not consider myself a “Biblical scholar.” I only hope to get you thinking about possibly a different view, thus understanding, of Scripture. What our focus is, up to this point, but especially moving forward, is the crucial component, often overlooked, of SYMBOLISM. The exactness of the words written is, of course, important. However, I firmly believe that what is often overlooked or not given the attention it deserves is the absolute necessity of shifting focus from knowing what is written, word for word, to the context, the symbolism, and, thus, the takeaway life lessons we should learn. Remember all this as we move to our following narrative – Chapter 3 of the Book of Genesis. Ready? Let's go!
Genesis 3:1 (NKJV) states, Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, "Has God indeed said, 'You shall not eat of every tree of the garden'?" I digress for a moment here before moving on. It might just be me. Still, I wondered why the author used the word serpent instead of the more familiar word – snake. Here are some of the possible reasons discovered. The choice of "serpent" carries layers of meaning that go beyond the mere physical characteristics of a snake. The word "serpent" helps emphasize this metaphysical aspect, whereas "snake" might reduce the narrative to a mere zoological creature and event. The term "serpent" often conveys a sense of mystery, cunning, craftiness, and even supernatural influence. The serpent, at least here in this Chapter, is not portrayed merely as an animal but as a representative of evil or an adversary to God's Will. The original Hebrew word used in Genesis 3 is נָחָשׁ (nachash), which is commonly translated as serpent and carries connotations beyond a physical snake, including enchantment or divination (from its root associations). "Snake," by contrast, is a simpler, more modern term without the same poetic or symbolic depth, which may not fully capture the author's intent. Now, let's continue.
The very first sentence in Chapter 3 introduces the serpent as the adversary in the story of humanity's fall, so we should note its importance to the rest of the Chapter's message and what we will discover as we go further into our Bible. The text calls our attention to the point that the serpent is part of God's Creation. However, this also sets the stage for a broader theological theme: even something Created by God can choose to act against His will. I believe we see where the serpent is portrayed as speaking, which is an unusual and supernatural trait for an animal, indicating that it may represent more than just a physical creature. In later religious interpretations, particularly in the Christian tradition, the serpent is often equated with Satan or an evil force acting through the animal. Continuing, we read, "Did God really say, 'You shall not eat of every tree of the garden'?" Immediately, the serpent begins by twisting and questioning God's command, sowing seeds of doubt in Eve's mind. The question is deliberately misleading. God's actual command in Genesis 2:16-17 allowed Adam to eat from any tree except the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. The serpent introduces the first recorded instance of skepticism and rebellion against Divine order in the Bible by starting with a question. This seemingly simple Verse highlights key themes of temptation, trust, and human responsibility, serving as the foundation for the widespread narrative of sin and redemption found in Scripture.
Genesis 3:2-3 (read) shows Eve's initial attempt to defend God's command against the serpent's distortion. However, her slight command alteration reveals a vulnerability that the serpent takes advantage of. Did you notice what she added to God's original command? She said to the serpent, "You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die." God's original command in Genesis 2:17 did not mention touching the tree, only eating its fruit. Eve's addition, "you must not touch it," highlights how humans, in my opinion, sometimes (or many times) expand or modify God's Divine instructions. This moment reflects the importance of accurately understanding and adhering to God's word. These Verses illustrate the subtle progression of temptation, from questioning and clarifying to misinterpreting and doubting God's word. Verses 2 and 3 highlight the importance of precise understanding and trust in God's actual instructions to avoid being misled. Let me emphasize again that precise understanding and trust can only be accomplished by staying in God's word!
Genesis 3:4-5 (read) represents the serpent's ultimate deception, persuading Eve to distrust God's warning and enticing her with the charm of Divine-like knowledge. These Verses highlight the sneaky nature of temptation, the human desire for self-rule, and the devastating consequences of turning away from God's truth. Here is a lesson we can learn from this encounter. Temptation often disguises itself as something beneficial by blending partial truths with lies. Only by studying God's word will we obtain the discernment required to avoid being misled by half-truths that contradict His Will.
Genesis 3:6 (read) captures the moment humanity turns away from God, with Eve and Adam submitting to temptation by disobeying His command. This Verse highlights the deceptive nature of sin and the progression from desire to action. This pivotal moment underscores the devastating consequences of disregarding God's command and the human tendency to prioritize desires over obedience. So, what can we learn from this Verse? Quite a lot. First, Eve values the fruit based on its physical appeal, meaning it looks like it could satisfy her hunger and basic needs. This reflects the temptation of the lust of the flesh, where physical desires override Spiritual obedience. This should also remind us that the lust of the eyes may lead us to covet something forbidden or sinful. All the blame is not on Eve, though. Adam is described as being with her, suggesting he was present during this encounter. Unlike Eve, who was deceived by the serpent, Adam appears to knowingly and willingly share in the act, making him equally responsible. This shared act of disobedience emphasizes the shared and personal nature of sin, affecting not just individuals but humanity as a whole. We can find in our history that leaders have, and still do, take advantage of "herd mentality."
Genesis 3:7 (read) is a critical verse in the Bible. This verse tells us what occurs right after Adam and Eve eat the forbidden fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. This phrase refers to the sudden awareness Adam and Eve experience after they disobey God by eating the forbidden fruit. Before eating the fruit, they were in a state of innocence, without any shame or awareness of good and evil. After eating, they became conscious of their actions and the consequences. When we read, Then the eyes of both of them were opened, the turn from innocence to moral awareness and self-awareness becomes evident. The knowledge of good and evil is intellectual and moral. This knowledge brings awareness of their sinful state. Their immediate response is an attempt to cover up and hide, which reflects the human tendency to avoid accountability for sin. As a side note, I have covered this crucial moment in another lesson. However, I will do a shorter version here to illustrate, prayerfully, the need for symbolism above simply reading words with shallow thought or reflection.
I believe the realization of their nakedness is a metaphor for their newfound knowledge of sin, guilt, and vulnerability. Consider this: Adam and Eve were naked but unashamed before the Fall, as we read in Genesis 2:25. Their nakedness, in my thinking, represents their purity and innocence. After eating the fruit, the awareness of their vulnerability and nakedness symbolized a loss of innocence and the introduction of shame. In response to their shame, Adam and Eve attempt to cover themselves with fig leaves. This act of sewing leaves to cover their nakedness symbolizes, to me, their attempt to hide their sin and shame. However, this also shows how human efforts to deal with sin are ultimately inadequate. This attempt at covering their nakedness (sin) illustrates the need for a more lasting solution, which (spoiler alert!) would later be provided by God through a sacrificial system and ultimately through the redemption offered by Christ Jesus (who we will learn about in future narratives) in our Christian theology.
Genesis 3:7 marks the transition from innocence and direct fellowship with God to a new reality marked by sin, shame, and separation from God. The knowledge of good and evil is cerebral and moral, raising awareness of the sinful state. Adam and Eve's immediate response is an attempt to cover up and hide, which reflects the human tendency to avoid accountability for sin. In a broader theological context, this moment in Genesis highlights the beginning of human alienation from God. In response to their shame, Adam and Eve attempt to cover themselves with fig leaves. This act of sewing leaves to cover their nakedness symbolizes, in my opinion, their attempt to hide their sin and shame, and not simply their naked body. Remember, we are using symbolism here. Their immediate response is an attempt to cover up and hide, reflecting the now-common human tendency to avoid accountability for sin. This act also shows how human efforts to deal with sin are ultimately inadequate and fail. In a broader theological context, this moment in Genesis highlights the beginning of human distancing from God, later becoming a central theme in our Bible. Here's a spoiler alert, but I want to plant a seed. It marks the beginning of human suffering and the need for salvation. Adam and Eve covering themselves because of their sin (disobedience) suggests the need for a more lasting solution, which would later be provided by God through a sacrificial system and ultimately through the redemption offered by Christ Jesus. Now, let's continue.
Genesis 3:8-9 (read) initially brings such an excellent thought to my mind. They heard the LORD God walking in the Garden in the cool of the day, making me think that God was regularly present with Adam and Eve. How great would that be? But then we read where, for the first time, Adam and Eve experience shame, guilt, and fear in God's presence. Next, the LORD God called to Adam and said, where are you? To me, the symbolism of this question is so profound. God's question is not about His wondering about Adam's location, but about having Adam reflect on his actions and their consequences. The question, where are you, by God serves as a model of how God invites all of us to acknowledge our Spiritual condition and return to Him. This question highlights God's grace and proposed plan to seek a broken and lost humanity, inviting us to confession and renewal. Although these Verses mark the beginning of humanity's distancing from God, they also hint at God's saving nature, suggesting His plan for reconciliation with Him.
Genesis 3:10 (read) tells us of the first time, because of sin, fear was experienced. Adam feels the weight of his disobedience and its consequences. Remember that Adam's saying here that he was naked symbolizes not just physical but also Spiritual and emotional vulnerability, guilt, as well as different forms of exposure. Adam is showing us the alienation sin creates between humanity and God. However, remember that despite Adam's attempt to hide, God actively seeks him out, showing that God does not abandon us even if we turn away from Him.
Genesis 3:11 (read) illustrates sin's relational and moral fallout, showing its effects on the individual, relationships, and ultimately all of humanity's relationship with God. We can also find God's patience even during human failure. Surely, at least in my understanding, when God asked Adam if he had eaten from the Tree he was commanded not to eat from God, He addressed Adam's act of disobedience, focusing on the broken command rather than merely its act or consequences. God knew the answer, so I believe He allowed Adam to confess and take responsibility for his actions.
Genesis 3:12 (read) seems odd and dangerous because Adam shifts the blame, first to Eve and indirectly to God Himself, by saying to God, "the woman an whom you gave to me" (NKJV). This attempt to shift the blame demonstrates how sin disrupts relationships, introducing conflict and a refusal to take responsibility. While Adam ultimately admits, "and I ate," this confession is preceded by justification and deflection, illustrating humankind's tendency to justify sin. Adam distances himself from both God and Eve. By Adam blaming Eve, we see the all too frequent action, now as well as then, of avoiding responsibility or accountability for sin by trying to deflect it to someone or something else.
Genesis 3:13 (read) uncovers, unfortunately, key truths about our human nature and our relationship with sin. When confronted, people too often attempt to deflect blame or justify their actions. However, God still calls everyone to accountability. Another lesson we can learn from this Verse is the importance of discernment because deception is a primary tool of sin. Eve admits to eating the forbidden fruit but shifts some blame to the serpent, stating that it deceived her. Her response reveals that she recognizes her error but still deflects some responsibility, like Adam's earlier blame-shifting. To Eve's credit, though, while Eve acknowledges that she was deceived, she also admits, "I did eat," showing that she ultimately chose to disobey God. God holds Eve accountable for her role in all of this. However, by allowing her to explain, He also demonstrates His grace, offering her a chance to confess. Have you noticed how God always provides an opportunity for confession regardless of sin?
We will stop at this point, as this is quite a lot to reflect on. But before we conclude this portion of Chapter 3, I want to remind you that despite humankind's failures, God's engagement with Adam and Eve shows, without a shadow of a doubt, His enduring grace, His desire for repair, and a renewal of our relationship with Him. Praise God!
In your journal –
. Why do you believe we should reflect on the story of Adam and Eve?
. Why is it essential to accurately understand and adhere to God's word?
. How is it possible to avoid temptation when it often disguises itself as beneficial by blending partial truths with lies?
. Do you believe Adam and Eve really covered themselves with sewn-together fig leaves? Explain your answer.
. Why do you believe God allowed both Adam and Eve to explain their disobedience of His command not to eat of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good
and Evil?
. For 1000 points – Are Adam and Eve responsible for the sins we commit?
Disciples Path Ministry – St. Augustine, Florida – U.S.A.