We all experience the difficult consequences of sin in this life that cause pain and suffering. There is good news though, Jesus is going to return and make everything new!
In the beginning, God created a beautiful, perfect environment for Adam & Eve!
There was nothing that they could have wished for. What an amazing life they could have had!
It is important to note that God gave them only one restriction and that was- you must not eat the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden, the tree of the knowledge of good and evil for when you eat of it you will surely die. Genesis 2:16,17
They were given a warning that disobedience would bring about the consequences of sin.
How Did Sin Enter the World?
We don’t know how long Adam and Eve enjoyed the garden before they disobeyed God and ate the forbidden fruit. However, we do know that when sin entered the world it was through Adam and Eve’s disobedience to God’s command. Genesis 1:16 Because of this disobedience, mankind now stands as guilty sinners in Adam (1 Corinthians 15:22).
Adam & Eve must leave the beautiful garden
Immediately, the terrible consequences of sin affected everything! They were no longer allowed to live in the beautiful garden that God had provided for them.
What deep regret they would have experienced over their life time!
What Are the Consequences of Sin That Entered the World?
The first consequence is that death entered the world and it is now a reality for all of humanity, all of creation. Genesis 2: 16, 17
Further, Adam experienced weeds, thorns and thistles in working the ground; hard work became the new normal to produce food for their sustenance.
Because of their sin, Adam and Eve lost the intimate fellowship that they had experienced with God. They experienced shame and guilt and Eve experienced pain in childbirth.
There were other consequences as well. Their sin alienated them from God. Genesis 3:10 And sadly, Adam and Eve’s perfect relationship was broken as they began to shift blame and make excuses for their sin. Genesis 3:12-13
In due time, two other terrible consequences entered the world – jealousy and violence. In fact, the first recorded murder was due to jealousy when Cain killed his brother Abel. Genesis 4:8
Not only was there consequences of sin for all of humanity; It has also affected all of Creation!
From then to the present time, the whole creation is groaning too as it
continues its decay since sin entered into the world. We experience this decay in these various ways: through forest fires, earthquakes, tsunamis, tornados, hurricanes, and more.
We are reminded that the earth is sickened by the result of our sins. The Bible declares that the world will get worse as we move closer to the end of times. Matthew 24: 3-14
All of these facts are very discouraging and could make one feel hopeless! I am sure they bring about many questions especially if this is the first time reading this Biblical account.
Why are the consequences of sin necessary for humanity and creation?
Dr. R. Albert Mohler, Jr. explains the sin of Adam and Eve was not just about a single sin they each committed.
It is humanity in Adam and Eve, particularly in Adam, falling into sin. It is giving ourselves over to sin. He goes on to explain the holiness, the righteousness and justice of God being infinite.
For further detail and understanding, I recommend you listen to his short video.
Good News! Jesus has a remedy for sin and He is returning to make everything new!
Because we have all sinned, we are separated from God.
Jesus came into the world, born of a virgin – therefore without the inherited sin nature of Adam – and was sacrificed by crucifixion for the sins of the world. He was a perfect sacrifice, without sin.
It is important to know that He has made a way for us to be forgiven and it is through Jesus Christ. John 3:16
Jesus own words tell us that He is the Way, the Truth and the Life.
So, Jesus is Not one of many ways; He is The Way. John 14:6
He is coming again and it could be anytime.
“And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.” John 14:3; Acts 1:11
Yes, Jesus is coming and we must be ready to meet Him. Are you ready?
When He comes, will He be your judge or your Savior?
If you are not sure, check out this article: The Most Important Decision in Life: Your Eternal Destiny
Further Reading:
Prayer of Response
Father, our Holy God, we are so thankful for your plan of redemption! We look forward to the day when you will make all things new and sin will no longer be a reality we struggle with.
Thank you Jesus for your great sacrifice, for taking on the sin of each of us and making a way for us to be righteous in your sight.
May we live our lives in a way that pleases you each and every day. When we sin, I pray we will quickly repent and ask for forgiveness and pray for your power to overcome our weaknesses.
We look to you and watch for your return Almighty God! In Jesus name, Amen
