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Study Overview

 

I. THE FALL: ADAM'S DISOBEDIENCE AND ITS CONSEQUENCES

Scripture Focus: Genesis 3:1-7

Key Word Study: "Died" (Hebrew: muwth)

The Hebrew word muwth in Genesis 2:17 ("you will surely die") carries the meaning of separation or cutting off. While Adam and Eve continued to live physically after eating the forbidden fruit, they immediately experienced spiritual death—separation from God's life-giving presence.

Cultural Context

In ancient Near Eastern culture, trees often symbolized life, wisdom, or divine knowledge. The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil represented God's sovereign right to define morality. By eating from it, Adam and Eve were essentially declaring independence from God's authority.

Biblical Insight

Notice the progression of temptation in verse 6:

  • "Good for food" - appeals to physical appetite (lust of the flesh)
  • "Pleasing to the eyes" - appeals to aesthetic desire (lust of the eyes)
  • "Desirable for gaining wisdom" - appeals to pride (pride of life)

This same pattern appears in 1 John 2:16 and was used by Satan when tempting Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11)

 

II. GOD'S MERCY: THE FIRST COVERING FOR SIN

Scripture Focus: Genesis 3:20-21

Read Genesis 3:20-21

Key Word Study: "Clothed" (Hebrew: labash)

The Hebrew word labash means to wrap around, cover, or put on like a garment. This is the same word used later in Scripture for being "clothed with righteousness" (Isaiah 61:10).

Historical Context

This is the first recorded death in Scripture—an innocent animal died to provide covering for human shame. In ancient cultures, the shedding of blood was understood as the ultimate price for sin, pointing forward to the sacrificial system God would establish.

Biblical Insight

God's provision of skin garments reveals several truths:

  • Mercy: Despite their disobedience, God provided for Adam and Eve's need
  • Sacrifice: An innocent life was taken to cover their shame
  • Inadequacy of self-effort: Their fig leaves were insufficient; God's covering was perfect
  • Foreshadowing: This points to Christ's ultimate sacrifice for sin