Adam and the Fall Into Sin
Scripture Reading — Genesis 3:17-19
The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Adam and Eve, the first human beings, were created good. If God created all things good, including humankind, then why is there so much bad in the world and in our lives? Where did sin come from? This question has intrigued people throughout the ages.
Genesis 3 tells us the sad story of the fall into sin. God had called Adam and Eve to obey him freely and willingly as they cared for his creation. But they failed to obey. Because of their disobedience, which we call sin, this world and our lives are now filled with brokenness, pain, and sorrow. Further, the lives of all people will end in death (Genesis 2:17; Hebrews 9:27).
Perhaps today you are experiencing the devastating effects of sin around you: the death of a loved one, a life-threatening disease, hunger, homelessness, or the ravages of war. Thank God that the story does not end there.
In Romans 5, the apostle Paul compares and contrasts Jesus and Adam. While Adam, the first man, brought sorrow and death, in Jesus we receive new hope and joy. Christmas reminds us that God sent his Son to heal this sin-scarred world, to forgive our sins, and to give us eternal life. What an awesome gift! And here’s more good news: you don’t need to wait until Christmas to receive this gift. Why not trust Jesus as your Savior and Lord today?
God of all grace, thank you for the gift of Jesus, who came to restore us from all the effects of sin. We long for that day when he returns and we will see you face to face! Amen.
About the author — John Van Schepen
Dr. John Van Schepen is a retired pastor who served churches in Washington, Wisconsin, Indiana, Oregon and California. He and his wife, Willie, have been blessed with five children and several grandchildren.
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