Dear OBC Family,

Without a proper understanding of Genesis 3, it is impossible to understand the world and our place in it.

Accordingly, we will take the next three weeks to examine this important chapter. Beginning with the Serpent entering the garden (v. 1), we will see what happens as Eve is deceived, Adam rebels, both hide, and God comes down to speak to his creation.

Today, the very good world that God made is no longer good. It is now cursed, and it is cursed because of what happened in Genesis 3. And yet, in that cursing there is the promise of salvation—a son who will come from the woman to save the world and destroy the devil (Gen. 3:15). This first gospel promise sets in place the whole story of redemption.

Before getting to the unfolding of that good news, however, we need to understand who the Serpent is, what the Serpent said, and why we should capitalize Serpent. Indeed, the woman and the man were not just approached by the most crafty beast, but as the rest of Scripture indicates, it was the devil himself who approached the pair and invited them to rebel.

This Sunday, we will consider what the devil said and what that teaches us about the world. Even more, though, we will see what it means to be faithful to God as temptations to sin come. And what it means that Christ our Lord did not sin when he was tempted by the devil.

So, to prepare, take time to read Genesis 3, Matthew 4:1–11, and Revelation 12. As you read, pray that God will help us to see Christ and the way he can save us from the schemes of the devil. As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.

For His Glory and your joy,

Pastor David

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Discussion & Response Questions (Genesis 2:25 – 3:7)

Why is this text crucial for our understanding of the Bible and the doctrine of salvation?

Why is eating from one specific tree a capital offense? What is deficient in our understanding if we minimizing the sin recorded in this text?

Consider Adam’s role and responsibility in this situation. How does Scripture speak about Adam when it comes to the fall of mankind?

Compare God’s directions about the trees in Genesis 2 with this conversation in Genesis 3. What differences do you notice? Why is this significant?

What do we observe about the nature of temptation?

How ought one to respond to the lies of Satan?

Compare Gen 2:25 and 3:7. How does sin fundamentally change humanity?

What are the consequences of the first sin? Consider the vastness of the implications of this passage.

How does this text reveal our need for Christ?

How should we respond to this text?