The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

SIN

The exact nature of the sin described in these verses is perplexing to most readers. While the actions are somewhat unclear, what is abundantly evident is the fact that God’s good, created order has been corrupted by human rebellion. The people have done the very thing God commanded them to do in the garden — they have been fruitful and multiplied and filled the earth (Ge 1:28). Sadly, rather than filling the earth with image-bearers who reflect God’s glory, they have instead filled the earth with brokenness.

Interestingly, the sin recounted here describes the people seeing something as beautiful and pursuing that thing in rebellion to God’s command, as did Adam and Eve. Rather than submitting to the command of God and trusting the goodness of his dictates, the first couple chose to trust their eyes and follow the lusts of their hearts (Ge 3:1 – 7). At its core, this is the nature of all sin.

God, the Creator of all things, knows best how the human life should be lived. He provides clear guidance on his good and gracious plans for humanity, which are ultimately for good. Sin is rooted in unbelief in the promises of God. Rather than trusting in the ways of God, all people choose to follow the desires of their own hearts and, in so doing, elevate themselves to the position of God. People believe they know better than God; therefore, they run after the lusts of their hearts and the desires of their eyes. John warns, however, that these things are passing away and so are those who live their lives in pursuit of them. Only those who do “the will of God” can live (1Jn 2:16 – 17).

But, how does one do the will of God? The implications of Adam’s sin and the fall are not merely that all people make bad decisions, yet if they try hard enough they can keep God’s law. Rather, sin renders all people unable to keep God’s law and trapped in the shackles of their sin. Jesus perfectly and completely lived the life they could not live, no matter how hard they tried. Those who are aware of their inability to keep God’s law can turn to Christ in repentance and faith and be given the free gift of righteousness. By grace, God credits the perfection of Jesus to men and women who could never earn it by their own merit (2Co 5:21).

Jesus, forgive me for my rebellion, my unbelief, and my arrogance. Thank you for living the perfect life that made my salvation possible. Amen.