The Lord sits enthroned over the flood; the Lord sits enthroned as king forever. - Psalm 29:10

Good morning. Today’s message is the 20th sermon of our current series titled “The Unnamed Church”. Before we begin, let’s play a game. I am going to describe a person we have talked about during the past few months. You tell me who they are. Ready?

She is the mother of all living. Answer: Eve
He brought an acceptable offering to God, but was later murdered. Answer: Abel
He was translated by God into heaven.   Answer: Enoch
He tricked Eve into eating the forbidden fruit. Answer: The Serpent
He bragged about being even more evil than his ancestor Cain. Answer: Lamech
God formed him out of the dust of the ground. Answer: Adam
He was perceived as a replacement for his slain brother. Answer: Seth
God commanded him to build an ark. Answer: Noah

How did you do? I hope this brief review helped you to remember some of the things we’ve covered during this study thus far. At the end of last week’s message, Noah, his family, and all of the animals were safely aboard the ark. God shut the door behind them. The time for judgment had arrived. Let’s continue our examination of Genesis 7.

I. THE FLOOD BEGINS (v11-12)

During the 600th year of Noah’s life, on the 17th day of the 2nd month, the Great Flood began. All of the fountains of the great deep burst open and water sprang forth from below. In addition, the floodgates of the sky were opened and heavy rain fell from above. The flooding rainfall continued for 40 days and 40 nights.

The story of Noah’s ark and the Great Flood purposefully includes specific dates and/or times. Their inclusion indicates that this is an authentic record of an actual historical event. If this was merely a myth or legend, there would be no need for such specific details.Using these dates, we can determine exactly how long Noah and the animals were on the ark.
 
The waters that flooded the earth came from 2 different locations, above and below. Apparently, the surface of the earth split apart and waters shot up through fountains, springs, or other cracks. Many believe this was accompanied by violent earthquakes unlike the world has ever seen. As we discussed during our study of creation, some hold that the tectonic plates shifted and moved, causing the continents to separate and drift apart.

Also during our study of creation, we summarized the Canopy Theory which states there was a layer of water at the outer edge of the earth’s atmosphere surrounding the globe and separating it from space. Though this theory is not as popular as it once was, there are still some who believe God caused this canopy to collapse resulting in torrential rainfall from above. Canopy or no canopy, it rained heavily and non-stop for 40 days and nights.

Some have even suggested that this was the first instance of rainfall in human history. The Bible never explicitly says this, but - for various reasons - some people believe it. If it was, this further increases the terror that people felt when raindrops began to fall. Personally, I think that rainfall began after the fall of mankind, and that humanity had experienced it for centuries by this point. This would explain why Noah seemingly understood God’s warning about the upcoming rain and flood.

II. THE WATER RISES (v17-20)

As the floodwaters began to rise, the ark was lifted off the ground and floated on the surface of the waters. The waters continued rising, prevailing upon the earth, until even the tallest mountains were covered. They continued rising even higher, another 22-23 feet above the mountain peaks.

Some argue that the flood was a regional event, stating that there is simply not enough water to flood the entire earth. However, the Bible states otherwise. Though it might seem physically impossible, with God all things are possible. Large fossil beds and coal deposits have been found on every continent, consistent with a global flooding event. Ancient stories from cultures around the world describe a great flood. If the flood was contained to a particular location, why didn’t God just tell Noah to move rather than building the ark? These and other evidence suggest a world-wide flood during which the entire earth was covered with water.

III. ALL LIVING THINGS DIE (v21-25)

As a result of the flood, all people, land animals, and birds died. Only those on the ark survived. Sometime after the initial 40 days and 40 nights, the floodwaters finally crested and prevailed upon the earth for 150 days before beginning to subside. This means the earth was completely covered with water for approximately 5 months.

I mentioned a few weeks ago that scholars have estimated the earth’s population to be somewhere between 250-750 million people at the time of the flood. This is a staggering number of deaths to consider. This is much higher than any other catastrophe including wars, plagues, famines, and so on.
      
As we have discussed in recent weeks, Noah only carried mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds on the ark. Of the vertebrate animals (those with a backbone), this only leaves fish. It was not necessary to bring marine animals on the ark, as they could survive in the water. But some have asked, what about freshwater fish? Various explanations have been proposed such as the formation of a freshwater layer atop the salty ocean below resulting from the massive amounts of rainfall. Whatever the explanation, they survived, as did the non-vertebrate insects.

CONCLUSION

Opponents of Christianity and adversaries of God openly rebuke Him for destroying all life, including innocent children and babies. They argue that a loving God would never do this. However, this is a matter of perspective. The Great Flood was just as much an act of mercy as it was an act of judgment. God spared these innocents from having to endure life in such a depraved environment. You could argue that the flood actually saved humanity.

Think about this.  If the entire world were to reject God and become corrupt, no one would ever go to heaven. Everyone would be separated from God and destined for condemnation. The Great Flood essentially provided mankind a second chance. While it is true that even now, after the flood, the majority remain lost in their sin, many do not. Millions have trusted in the LORD and received salvation in Jesus Christ. Thank God for second chances!

The Great Flood was the most devastating, catastrophic natural disaster in the history of mankind. Yet, through Noah and his family, God extended His grace. He saved them from death because they believed in Him and lived in obedience and righteousness. He can save you from judgment, too. Will you trust Him today?

The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be of sound thinking and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer. - 1 Peter 4:7

This morning I will preach the 19th message of “The Unnamed Church” sermon series. During this earliest era of Biblical history, there was no particular people group who served as the LORD’s representatives on the earth. Instead, God appeared directly to various individuals who aspired to lead their families and others around them in the faith. As we have discovered, with no designated community of believers present, mankind became exceedingly evil and corrupt.

In our previous sermon, we read that God commanded Noah to build an ark in anticipation of the coming flood. He gave Noah basic instructions for its construction, dimensions, and design. The ark would carry Noah, his family, land animals, and birds, and save them from destruction. Over the next several decades, Noah worked diligently building this enormous vessel and outfitting it with all of the necessary food and supplies.

Today we will discuss the final days leading up to the Great Flood. This sermon is titled “Noah Enters the Ark”. We will be reading from Genesis 7:1-10 and 13-16.

I. LAST CALL (v1-5)

The LORD spoke to Noah and told him that it was almost time to enter the ark. In a week’s time, just 7 more days, He would send torrential rainfall that would persist for 40 days and nights, would flood the earth, and wipe out all life on the land. During these final days, Noah was to load the animals on the ark. He was to take 7 pairs (male and female) of every clean animal and bird and 1 pair (male and female) of every unclean animal with him.

It is commonly believed that Noah took 2 of every kind of animal on the ark, but that’s only true of the unclean animals. He actually took 14 of each type of clean animal, 7 pairs of a male and its female. Scholars reason that Noah carried more clean animals so that he would have a few extra to sacrifice (and possibly eat) after the flood ended while still protecting them from extinction. With this in mind, it is estimated that there were approximately 6,750 individual animals on the ark.

Critics argue that this passage proves the story of Noah’s ark is make-believe. They say that clean and unclean animals were not distinguished from each other until the Mosaic Law was given many centuries later (Leviticus 11). Thus, Noah wouldn’t have known the difference and this is an error in Scripture. However, this argument can’t be substantiated. Just because it hadn’t been formally written into the law yet doesn't prove that God hadn’t already revealed it. Based upon the animal sacrifices made prior to the exodus (by Abel, Noah, Abraham, and possibly others) it would appear that the basic difference between clean and unclean animals was already well known. Thus, it seems likely this practice or tradition was included, clarified, and perhaps expanded by the law.

II. ALL ABOARD (v7-9; 13-15)

During the last week before the flood, all of the animals and birds - both clean and unclean - that God intended to preserve came to the ark. They came in pairs, male and female. Noah saw to it that they were all properly loaded and prepared for the journey ahead. Then, in the final hours, just before the rain began, Noah and his wife, along with their 3 sons (Shem, Ham, and Japheth) and their wives, entered the ark. Now everyone was safely aboard.

There is a famous line from the 1989 movie “Field of Dreams” that says, “If you build it, they will come”. The actual line in the movie says “he will come”, but people have changed it over the years. Anyway, I always think of this line when I read the story of Noah’s ark. Noah was commanded to build the ark, and because he did God sent the animals. Noah didn’t gather them himself, but rather received them as they arrived.

While I don’t necessarily think this is an instructive passage, I can’t help but notice a parallel between the manner by which these animals came to the ark and the manner by which lost people come to Christ. The Bible teaches that no person can come to God unless they are drawn by Him (John 6:44). In other words, a lost person cannot come to the point of salvation on their own volition, but rather must be brought there by the Spirit of God through genuine conviction. Only then can they find true salvation, as illustrated by safe refuge aboard the ark.

III. SHUT THE DOOR (v6, 10, 16)

After all of its passengers were safely aboard, God Himself shut the door of the ark. The final week of preparation had passed and the rain began to fall. Noah was 600 years old when the Great Flood began.

Noah didn’t close the door from the inside. Rather, God closed the door from the outside. This act symbolized His divine protection of those aboard. They were safe and secure in His hand. He would protect and keep them during the raging flood. Furthermore, it ensured that nobody else would get in. What God closes, no man can open. The opportunity for salvation had passed and now judgment was coming.

Many theologians have drawn a connection between the single door on the side of the ark and the exclusivity of Christ. In the gospels, Jesus taught, “I am the door. If anyone enters through Me, he will be saved.” (John 10:7, 9) He later said, “No one comes to the Father but through Me”. (John 14:6) The Bible plainly teaches that faith in Jesus Christ is the only path to salvation. To deny this is to deny Scripture itself.  Beloved, there is only 1 door that leads to eternal security, and His name is Jesus.
 
CONCLUSION

I don’t want to minimize the importance and necessity of evangelism and outreach, but I do want to highlight a principle illustrated in today’s passage and elsewhere in Scripture. If we, like Noah, are faithfully obedient in doing the things God has called us to do, we can trust Him with the results. Our fruitfulness doesn’t depend on our own abilities or merits. Just as He brought the animals to the ark, so also God will bring people to salvation (and, incidentally, to our church) as He sees fit. When we preach the gospel, boldly and uncompromisingly, the Lord will draw people to Himself (John 12:32). As believers, our job is to obediently sow the seed, and trust Him for the harvest.

Next Sunday we will discuss the greatest catastrophe in human history… so far. God will unleash judgment upon the earth and blot out wicked humanity. Only those on the ark will survive. If you are here listening this morning, it is not by accident. God has led you here. Don’t miss this opportunity to receive forgiveness and salvation by trusting in Jesus Christ. The door will be closing soon.

By faith Noah, being warned about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith. - Hebrews 11:7

When we wrapped up last week’s sermon, all hope seemed lost. Mankind had spiralled downward into grave and wanton sin. The whole earth had gone astray! God planned to blot humanity out, but patiently decided to wait for 120 years before enacting judgment. This morning’s message takes place during this grace period, the century plus just before the flood, and focuses on a man named Noah. We will be reading from Genesis 6:8-10, 13-22. 

I. NOAH FINDS FAVOR (v8-10)

The earth had been completely overtaken by sin and corruption. Every thought and intention of man was continuously set on evil… with 1 exception. Out of the millions of people alive at that time, only Noah found favor with the LORD. He alone was a righteous and blameless man who walked with God. Noah became the father of 3 sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth.

Take a moment to let this sink in… Noah was the only person on the entire earth who was approved by and acceptable to God. That not only speaks to how vile mankind had become, but also to the incredible character of Noah. In the face of overwhelming violence and corruption, Noah stood alone. He was righteous and blameless in both word and deed. When literally no one else walked with the LORD, he did.

II. GOD’S COMMAND TO BUILD (v13-17)

God spoke directly to Noah. He warned him that He was about to destroy the earth including all flesh. The LORD commanded Noah to build an ark and gave him instructions for doing so. God said that He was going to flood the earth and that every living creature (man, land animals, and birds) would die.

God instructed Noah to build the ark out of gopher wood. Scholars remain uncertain as to what type of timber this is, but possibilities include cypress, cedar, and pine. It was to have several rooms and be covered both inside and outside with pitch. Pitch was a sticky, tar-like substance used to waterproof the boat. The Hebrew word kaphar, which translates as pitch, is used elsewhere in Scripture to mean covering. Some have compared the pitch on Noah’s ark to the blood of Christ, which covers us from sin and protects us from God’s righteous judgment.

The ark was to be 300 cubits long, which is approximately 450 feet. This is the length of 1½ football fields, not including the endzones. It was to be 50 cubits wide, which is approximately 75 feet. This is about the length of a tennis court. It was to stand 30 cubits high, roughly 45 feet. This is about the height of a 4-story building. Based on these dimensions, Noah’s ark was among the largest wooden vessels ever made.

Additionally, the ark was to have a window 1 cubit (about 18 inches) from the top, which many interpret to mean a continuous opening or skylight around the vessel that would allow sunlight and fresh air to enter. There was to be a door on the side of the ark. It was to have 3 levels, a lower, middle, and upper deck. Other than these general details, no other instructions are given about the ark in the Bible. This leaves a lot to the imagination, and many different diagrams and designs have been suggested.  

Unlike most ships, Noah’s ark was not built to sail or navigate the seas. As such, it had no oars, sails, rudder, or any such mechanism to propel or direct it. Rather, it simply floated on the waters, drifting wherever the winds and waves carried it. Its sole purpose was to preserve the life of those inside it during the flood. It was a safe place, much like the LORD is a refuge to those who trust in Him (Psalm 32:7).

III. GOD’S COMMAND TO LOAD (v18-22)

God established a covenant with Noah and his sons, including Noah’s wife and his sons’ wives. He directed Noah to bring 2 of every kind of land animal and bird upon the ark, a male and a female, in order to keep them alive. Furthermore, Noah was to gather and load the ark with a sufficient food supply for himself, his family, and all the animals aboard. Therefore, in obedience to the LORD’s command, Noah began working.

Notice that God’s warning to and covenant with Noah and his sons was made after they were already married. Noah had 3 boys when he was 500 years old, just 100 years before the flood took place. It likely took them at least 25 years or more to grow up and wed. Thus, we can reasonably conclude that Noah had, at most, 75 years to prepare the ark. It seems probable that his sons helped him, and perhaps others as well.

Experts have estimated that there were approximately 1,400 different kinds of animals on the ark. Those who adhere to the young earth theory, which we discussed earlier in this series, believe this number included dinosaurs, which became extinct after the flood. Noah was not instructed to gather the animals himself (which would have taken a long time), but rather God supernaturally directed them to come. However, Noah was responsible for gathering food and storing it on the ark (enough to last just over a year’s time).

Other than building the ark, which itself was a monumental task, and loading the ark with all of its necessary supplies and provisions, what else did Noah do in the years leading up to the flood? The Bible does not explicitly say that Noah preached to or warned the people about the coming disaster. However, the New Testament refers to him as a “preacher of righteousness” (2 Peter 2:5). This description indicates that he did preach, either in word, deed, or both, to the corrupt people around him, mostly certainly calling them to repentance. Unfortunately, it appears that no one heeded his warnings (Luke 17:27).

CONCLUSION

The Ark Encounter theme park in Williamstown, Kentucky features a lifesize replica of Noah’s Ark built to the exact specifications given in the Bible. It opened to the public in 2016. It is operated and managed by a Christian ministry called Answers in Genesis, which also operates the Creation Museum (about a 45 minute drive away). I have never been to the Ark Encounter in-person, but would like to go someday. That said, I have watched a few virtual tours of it online and would encourage you to do so if you’re interested.

Noah was a remarkable man. While everyone else continually and brazenly practiced debauchery, drunkenness, violence, and all sorts of immorality, Noah faithfully built an ark in accordance with God’s command. To those around him, he must have seemed peculiar and strange. What was this weirdo doing? I suspect he may have been a laughingstock to the people in his community. Needless to say, he probably didn't have many, if any, friends. Nevertheless, Noah remained wholly committed to the LORD.

How does our faith compare with Noah’s? If you or I were placed in a similar situation, would we have the strength to stand for God, to live righteously, and to shun wickedness… even if it meant doing so all alone? Does this fallen world see us differently, as strangers or pilgrims on the earth (1 Peter 2:11), or do we blend in just fine? Beloved, I want to stick out like a sore thumb. I want to stand boldly and unapologetically for Christ. I want to be more like Noah. How about you?

The fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, they have committed abominable deeds; There is no one who does good. The Lord has looked down from heaven upon the sons of men to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God. They have all turned aside, together they have become corrupt; There is no one who does good, not even one. - Psalm 14:1-3

In our previous 2 messages, we have discussed the lineage of Adam through his sons Cain and Seth. The line of Cain is considered to be the unrighteous branch of the family while the line of Seth is considered to be the righteous branch of the family, primarily because the genealogy of Jesus traces back to Adam through Seth. Unfortunately, as we will see in the upcoming sermon, virtually all of Seth’s descendants became godless sinners, too.

Using the ages of those listed in the Bible, we were able to calculate that the time span from the beginning of Adam’s measured life until the birth of Noah’s sons was between 1,500 and 1,600 years. During this period, the earth’s population exploded, growing from just 2 people (Adam and Eve) into millions or possibly even billions by some estimates.

This morning’s message pertains to this era of history, between the fall of man and the Great Flood. We will discuss the state of humanity and its steep moral regression during these centuries. I’ve titled the sermon “The Corruption of Mankind”. We will be reading from and talking about Genesis 6:1-7, 11-12.

I. THE SONS OF GOD AND NEPHILIM (Genesis 6:1-2, 4)

As the population of the earth began to grow and many daughters were being born, the sons of God saw that these human women were beautiful. Therefore, they took wives for themselves, whomever they chose. When the sons of God came into the daughters of men, they bore children to them. These children became known as the Nephilim and were described as “mighty men of old” and “men of renown”.

This is 1 of the most debated passages in the Bible. The word Nephilim means “the fallen ones” in Hebrew, but was translated to mean “giants” in the Greek. They are believed to be a race of giants, mighty men of renown, who dwelt on the earth both before and after (for a time and less prominently) the flood. Centuries later during the exodus, the Hebrew spies reported seeing Nephilim in the Promised Land (Numbers 13:33). Goliath, the Philistine warrior who David killed with a sling and stone, was descended from the Nephilim through Anak. The Nephilim were the offspring of the sons of God and the daughters of men.     

Over the years 3 primary theories have emerged regarding the identity of the “sons of God”. Some say that they were powerful human leaders or chiefs who arrogantly characterized themselves as gods to their followers, but were not. Others believe they were the male descendants of Seth who intermarried with the female descendants of Cain (“the daughters of men”) resulting in a mixed breed, similar to how the Samaritans would come into being many years later. Both of these theories describe human beings marrying each other and neither explains how their children (the Nephilim) became an extraordinary race.

The 3rd theory proposes that the “sons of God” were fallen angels or demons (Job 1:6, 2:1) who either took on human form or, alternatively, inhabited human males. They married and mated with human wives, resulting in children of abnormal size and enhanced physical abilities. These demon-human hybrids were known as the Nephilim. In response to their grave sin, God judged and imprisoned the fallen angels who were responsible for this inbreeding in order to prevent it from continuing (Jude 1:6). This was, apparently, an attempt to pervert humanity and prevent the coming of the Messiah. In my opinion, this is the best explanation of what happened.

II. GOD REGRETS CREATING MANKIND (Genesis 6:5-7, 11-12)

Mankind became exceedingly corrupt and sinful. Violence filled the earth and sin was rampant. Every intention and thought of man’s heart was continually set on evil. God saw their wicked condition and He regretted making man. He stated that He would blot them out, including the creeping animals and birds that dwelt upon the earth.

The LORD’s ways and works are perfect (Psalm 18:30, Deuteronomy 32:4). He does not make mistakes. He did not err in creating mankind, or else He would have wiped us out completely. Rather, His regret was an expression of deep sorrow and grief over man’s brokenness and sin. It revealed how deeply He loved humanity and the pain our waywardness causes Him. God regretted what man had freely chosen to become and was determined to make a change. His plan of redemption was still intact, but called for a reset.

III. THE DAYS OF MAN SHALL BE 120 YEARS (Genesis 6:3)

By this point the earth had become completely filled with evil and violence. The Nephilim lived among the population, themselves practicing sin and rebellion against God along with normal men. The world had become a dark and seemingly hopeless place. The LORD declared that His Spirit would not strive with man forever, and that “his days shall be 120 years”.

There are 2 different theories as to what this verse means. They are known as the lifespan theory and the countdown theory. The lifespan theory proposes that God saw the corruption of mankind and decided to impose an age limit upon them. Up until this time, people were living to be 900+ years old. However, over the next several centuries (following the flood) the average lifespan would gradually decrease. That said, it remained well over 120 for quite some time and, by the time of David, had dropped below 120, where it remained throughout the New Testament and still is today. In fact, the Bible actually says that the average human lifespan is 70 or 80 years old (Psalms 90:10). As such, I don’t agree with the lifespan theory.

The countdown theory seems more reasonable to me, especially given the context of the passage. It argues that God saw the corruption of mankind, determined to blot them out, but mercifully chose to give them 120 years to repent of their sin and change their ways before enacting judgment. If this is the case, the countdown began when Noah was 480 years old, just 20 years before the birth of Shem, Ham, and Japheth. Providing a grace period is consistent with the nature of God and is seen throughout Scripture. The LORD is patient in His anger and desires for people to repent (2 Peter 3:9).

CONCLUSION

Some people wonder if our world is as evil today as it was then… and perhaps if God’s judgment is coming soon. Jesus compared the final days before His return with the days of Noah (Matthew 24:37). Our modern world is permeated with all types of vileness and sin. Fallen angels may not be mating with human women, but advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics make relationships with non-humans more possible than ever. Perhaps a new version of the Nephilim is on the horizon?

At least the church, as imperfect as she is, remains on the earth. But what if she were to be suddenly raptured away? How quickly would the earth deteriorate into a complete cesspool of corruption and wickedness? Perhaps God has already begun the countdown to Judgment Day. Who knows how long we have left? If you’ve not already done so, today is your opportunity to turn from sin, seek forgiveness in Christ Jesus, and be born again. Don’t wait until it's too late.

Adam, Seth, Enosh, Kenan, Mahalalel, Jared, Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech, Noah, Shem, Ham, and Japheth. - 1 Chronicles 1:1-4

Adam and Eve had many children after being cast out of the Garden of Eden. Of these, the Bible only provides an abbreviated genealogical record of 2 of their sons. Presumably, Abel did not have any children before being murdered by his brother Cain. As for Cain, we discussed his family tree in last week’s message. The line of Cain is sometimes referred to by theologians as the unrighteous branch.

In this morning’s message, we will learn about another son of Adam and Eve named Seth. We will discuss the Biblical record of his descendants, sometimes referred to as the righteous branch. It is found in Genesis 4:25-26 and 5:1-32. This sermon is titled “Adam’s Lineage Through Seth” and is the 16th of our current sermon series. Unlike virtually every other sermon I have ever written or preached, this message is not broken down into separate points.

God created mankind, both male and female, in His own likeness and He blessed them. Thus Adam and Eve were created by God, not born of a woman. Their original purity and innocence was corrupted as a consequence of their sin. As such, they and all of their descendants (that is, all of humanity) would be defiled and would possess a sinful nature. This downfall was exemplified by the story of Cain and Abel.  

Sometime after Cain murdered his brother and was banished by God, Adam and Eve had another son. They named him Seth, which means "appointed" or “placed” because God had given them a substitute for Abel. Adam was 130 years old when Seth was born. Some scholars date this age from the time of his creation as a grown man, others from the time of his hypothetical birth as an infant, and still others from the fall and curse when he began to age (as he was no longer able to eat from The Tree of Life).  

While Scripture says that Adam was created in God’s image, it says that Seth was created in Adam’s image. This is an important distinction. Seth bore the image of God just as his father did, but also inherited Adam’s corruption.

When Seth was 105 years old he had a son named Enosh. The name Enosh means “mortal man” or “frail flesh" and speaks to the temporary nature of human life. During Enosh’s lifetime, people began calling upon the name of the LORD. This marks the beginning of corporate worship and gathering together to seek God's help. This practice also contrasts the godly lineage of Seth with the ungodly lineage of Cain.

When Enosh was 90 years old he had a son named Kenan. The name Kenan has been interpreted in several ways and can mean “possession”, “sorrow”, or “composer”. The Hebrew name Kenan appears as Cainan in the Greek.

When Kenan was 70 years old he had a son named Mahalalel. The name Mahahalel means “praise of God”, “blessed of God” or “shining of God”.

When Mahalalel was 65 years old he had a son named Jared. The name Jared means “to descend” or “to come down”.

When Jared was 162 years old he had a son named Enoch. This is not the same Enoch we discussed last week, the son of Cain. Rather, in this instance, the name Enoch is better interpreted to mean “dedicated to” or “teaching”. This Enoch was a faithful follower of God during dark times on the earth. He was taken away by God into heaven (Hebrews 11:5).

When Enoch was 65 years old he had a son named Methusaleh. The name Methusaleh means “his death shall bring” or “his death shall send”. Methusaleh lived longer than any other person named in the Bible. He died when he was 969 years old, the same year as the flood.

When Methusaleh was 187 years old he had a son named Lamech. Lamech would live to be 777 years old, dying just 5 years before the flood. This is not the same Lamech listed in the line of Cain who boasted about his violent ways. Rather, in this instance, the name Lamech is better interpreted to mean “despairing” or “made low”. When Lamech was 56 years old Adam died at the age of 930. When Lamech was 113 years old Enoch was translated into heaven at the age of 365. When Lamech was 168 years old Seth died at the age of 912.

When Lamech was 182 years old he had a son named Noah. The name Noah means “rest” or “comfort”. When Noah was 84 years old Enosh died at the age of 905. When Noah was 179 years old Kenan died at the age of 910. When Noah was 234 years old Mahalalel died at the age of 895. When Noah was 366 years old Jared died at the age of 962.  

When Noah was 500 years old he had Shem, Ham, and Japheth. Some scholars believe these boys were triplets, while others argue that Noah’s age in this verse is estimated and they were actually born a few years apart. At this point, Methusaleh and Lamech were still alive.

In this chapter we learn that the human lifespan was much longer back then than it is today. Not including Enoch, the average age of death for these men was 908 years old. We can assume they had many children in each generation and the world’s population grew rapidly. By the time of the flood, traditional estimates of the earth’s population range from 250 million to 750 million, with some even higher.

Using the numbers given in this chapter, 1,556 years passed between Adam and the birth of Shem, Ham, and Japheth. Although ages are not given for the descendants of Cain, we can roughly align them with the generations of Seth for the sake of comparison.

In closing, I want to teach you an amazing truth hidden in this chapter. Let’s review the names of these antediluvian (or pre-flood) patriarchs in order. They are: Adam, Seth, Enosh, Kenan, Mahalalel, Jared, Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech, Noah, and Ham, Shem, and Japheth. Now, not including Ham, Shem, and Japheth, here are the meanings of their names in the same order:

“Man”, “appointed”, “mortal”, “sorrow”, “blessed of God”, “to come down”, “teaching”, “his death shall bring”, “despairing”, “comfort”. When read as a continuous sentence, these names proclaim the gospel. Man is appointed to mortality and sorrow; but the Blessed of God shall come down teaching that His death will bring the despairing rest. Amazing!

The genealogy of Jesus traces back to Adam through Seth. This is recorded in its entirety in Luke 3:23-38. And so, even as we drudge through a tedious and seemingly mundane chapter about ancient chronology, we are still ultimately talking about and pointing to Jesus.  

Next week, we will begin the story of Noah and the great flood. It is covered in Genesis chapters 6 through 9. Until then, may the LORD bless you.

Woe to them! For they have gone the way of Cain, and for pay they have poured themselves into the error of Balaam, and perished in the rebellion of Korah. - Jude 1:11

Good morning. Last Sunday we read the story of Adam and Eve’s sons, Cain and Abel. Both of these young men brought an offering to God, but only Abel’s was accepted. Cain became jealous and murdered his brother. As a result, God condemned Cain to be a vagrant and wanderer on the earth for the remainder of his life.

In today’s message, we will continue to focus on Cain. What ever became of him? Did he have any children? If so, who were they and what do we know about them? This sermon will try to answer these (and perhaps a few other) questions. It is titled, “Adam’s Lineage Through Cain” and comes from Genesis 4:16-24.

I. THE LAND OF NOD (v16)

After the LORD passed judgment on him for killing Abel, Cain departed from his family and from the presence of the LORD. He settled in the land of Nod, east of Eden. The Hebrew word Nod means “wandering” or “exile”. While the Bible tells us that it was east of the land of Eden, where Adam and Eve presumably remained after being expelled from the garden, the exact location of Nod remains unknown.

Some scholars suggest that Nod was not a specific place, but rather referred to wherever Cain went - “The Land of the Wanderer”. While Cain was driven out of Eden, he chose to remain alienated from God. As such, he became a godless man who built a society and birthed a family that would follow in his footsteps. 

II. WHO WAS CAIN’S WIFE? (v17a)

Cain and his wife had a child who they named Enoch. This has led many to ask, “Where did Cain’s wife come from?” We have already emphasized that Adam and Eve were the only 2 people God created and were the parents of all humanity. That said, Cain’s wife must have been 1 of his sisters or nieces. The Bible states that Adam and Eve had many other children who are not named in Scripture (Genesis 5:4).

The Biblical laws against incest were not enacted until the time of Moses, hundreds of years later. They were intended to protect and preserve family health, while promoting the proper meaning of marriage. However, the earliest generations of mankind had pure genetics, free from mutations and diseases which developed over time, and therefore could safely marry and have children with their close relatives. This was the only option for the earliest generations.

The Book of Jubilees is an ancient Jewish text which retells the story of Genesis. Fragments of it were found along with the Dead Sea scrolls. That said, for various reasons it is not considered to be inspired by the Holy Spirit and is therefore not regarded as a reliable record of truth. Still, for what it's worth, The Book of Jubilees says that Cain’s wife was his sister Awan.

III. THE CITY OF ENOCH (v17b)

Cain built a city and named it after his son Enoch. This is the 1st city mentioned in the Bible, and is therefore believed by many to be the 1st city ever built. Scholars associate it with the ancient Sumerian cities of southern Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), though its precise location is unknown.

The fact that Cain built a city to settle in indicates a purposeful attempt on his part to undermine God’s punishment. Rather than accept his fate as a nomadic wanderer, Cain tried to establish a permanent home for himself. The Bible doesn’t tell whether or not his effort was successful.

IV. MORE DESCENDANTS (v18)

Cain’s son Enoch is not the same person who was translated into heaven. We will talk about this more next week. The name Enoch actually has several different meanings, including “disciplined”, and may be a reference to the fact that his father Cain was disciplined by God. Nevertheless, Enoch had a son named Irad whose name means “runner” or “fugitive”. Irad had a son named Mehujael which means “smitten of God” or “destroyed of God”. Mehujael had a son named Methushael which means “man of God”. Methushael had a son named Lamech which means “strong” or “wild man”.

Notice that, with the exception of Methushael, each of these names has a negative connotation. As stated earlier, Cain’s descendants did not follow the LORD. They were sinful, godless people. During these years, wickedness increased greatly upon the earth. 

V. LAMECH AND HIS FAMILY (v19-24)

Lamech is the 1st man named in Scripture who married multiple wives. This is when polygamy began. He married 2 women - Adah and Zillah. Lamech boasted to his wives about killing a man who struck him and a boy that wounded him. He mocked God saying that if Cain was avenged 7 fold, he should be avenged 77 fold. In other words, he bragged that the vengeance and violence of Cain paled in comparison to his own! Lamach was an arrogant, violent polygamist and murderer. 

During his earthly ministry, Jesus used Lamech’s boastful words to teach an important lesson. When Peter asked Him if he should forgive someone up to 7 times, Jesus answered that he should forgive the person “77 times” (Matthew 18:21-22). Most Bible translations quote Jesus as saying “70 x 7” - the original Greek is somewhat ambiguous. Either way it seems to me and many other theologians that Jesus is alluding to Lamech. He reversed Lamech’s call to increased vengeance, turning it into a command for unlimited forgiveness instead.  

Through his wife Adah, Lamach had 2 sons - Jabal and Jubal. Jabal’s descendants lived in tents and had livestock. Jubal’s descendants played the lyre and pipe. Through his other wife Zillah, Lamach had 1 son and 1 daughter - Tubal-cain and Naamah. Tubal-cain was a forger of bronze and iron implements. Although they were not believers, Lamech’s offspring were gifted herdsmen, musicians, and craftsmen.

CONCLUSION

While there are no others listed in this passage, Cain most certainly had many descendants whose names are not recorded in the Bible. The lineage of Cain is considered the unrighteous branch of Adam’s offspring. It extended until the days of the great flood, when all of humanity was destroyed by water except for Noah and his family. Unless Noah’s wife or any of his daughter-in-laws were descendants of Cain (the Bible doesn’t say, but it seems unlikely to me), the line of Cain permanently ended with the flood.

Next week we will compare and contrast the lineage of Cain with that of Seth, another of Adam and Eve’s sons. We will discover and discuss some similarities and differences between the 2 family trees. In the genealogical record of Seth, specific ages are given which allow us to calculate how many years actually passed during this time period. See you then!

[Don’t be like] Cain, who was of the evil one and slew his brother. And for what reason did he slay him? Because his deeds were evil, and his brother’s were righteous. - 1 John 3:12

Over the past few weeks we have read about Adam and Eve, their sin in the garden, and its devastating consequences. We have talked about how their disobedience corrupted all of humanity. All people are born with a sinful nature which is passed down from Adam and Eve, and all freely choose to sin against God. Fortunately, even as the LORD was punishing Adam and Eve for their iniquity, He foretold of His plan to redeem mankind.

Today and for the next few Sundays we will be talking about Adam and Eve’s children and/or their descendants. This morning’s message comes from Genesis 4:1-15. It is titled “Cain Murders Abel”.

I. OFFERINGS GIVEN (v1-5a)

Sometime after being cast out of the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve began having children. Cain was their firstborn son. Eve was delighted to have birthed a child with God’s help so she named him Cain which means “gotten one”. She conceived again and gave birth to his younger brother Abel, which may mean “breath”, “vapor”, or “shepherd”.

Several years passed as these boys grew into young men. Cain became a farmer - “a cultivator of the ground”. Abel became a shepherd - “a keeper of flocks”. At some point, the brothers brought sacrifices to God. Though not stated directly, it seems that the LORD had revealed to them the need to offer sacrifices as an act of worship. The implication is that God gave them instructions about how to do so.

Cain brought some produce from his field. Abel brought the firstborn of his flock and its fatty portions. The LORD approved of Abel’s offering, but had no regard for Cain’s offering. Again, the Bible doesn’t clearly explain God’s reasoning, but there are several possibilities.

Some have suggested that God accepted Abel’s offering because it was an animal sacrifice and rejected Cain’s because it wasn’t. As we’ve discussed previously, God views animal life more highly than plant life. Under the Mosaic Law (which wasn’t yet in place), animal sacrifices were necessary to atone for sin. That said, grain offerings were given as a means of expressing thanksgiving. Thus, both were acceptable, though not equal in potency.

Others suppose that God accepted Abel’s offering because it was the firstborn of his flock, while Cain’s was just some (not necessarily the first portion) of his produce. The Bible commands that we give of the firstfruits (Exodus 23:19), not just from the leftovers or surplus that we have. This practice prioritizes God and expresses faith in His provision.

Finally, some believe that God accepted Abel’s offering and rejected Cain’s because of the spirit with which it was given. Abel offered his sacrifice by faith, while Cain did not (Hebrews 11:4). Cain’s insolent attitude is evident in His response to the LORD's disapproval. 

II. MURDER COMMITTED (v5b-8)

Cain became very angry that God didn’t approve of his sacrifice. The LORD asked Cain why he was so upset. God said, “If you do well, your countenance will be lifted up.” Some Bibles translate this to say, “If you do well, you will be accepted.” The context suggests that Cain had not done well, and therefore his offering had been rejected.

God further warned Cain that if his attitude did not change, sin would overtake him. God described sin as crouching in wait at the door, waiting to pounce at any moment. This is one of the most vivid and unsettling depictions of sin in the entire Bible. God told Cain that he must “rule over it” which is to say that he needed to actively exercise discipline and self-control to overcome his bitterness and temptation.

Unfortunately, Cain did not listen to or heed God’s warning. Instead, he went out and confronted his brother in the field. Enraged, Cain rose up and killed his brother Abel. This is the first instance of murder in the Bible (in human history). Already the manner of and severity of sin was beginning to increase. As generations passed by, it would become much worse…

III. PUNISHMENT RENDERED (v9-15)

The LORD spoke to Cain again asking, “Where is your brother Abel?” Cain disrespectfully answered, “I don’t know.  Am I my brother’s keeper?” His snide response revealed his hatred for his brother. While we don’t necessarily bear full responsibility for protecting or providing for other people, we as Christians are to care for and look out for each other, especially within the church. In this sense, we are our brothers’ keepers.

God knew what Cain had done and, figuratively speaking, Abel’s blood cried out from the ground (Hebrews 12:24). God told Cain that the soil would no longer produce crops for him. Instead, he would be a vagrant and wanderer on the earth for the remainder of his life. Cain cried out that this punishment was too harsh and that someone would surely find him and kill him. Therefore, God appointed a sign for Cain so that no one would take his life. God stated that if anyone killed Cain, vengeance would be taken on him sevenfold.

Earlier in this sermon I mentioned that the Law of Moses had not yet been given. Neither had the Noahic Covenant, which we will discuss later in this series. Both of these justice systems require capital punishment for those who commit murder. However, seeing that neither of these were in place, God punished Cain to be a fugitive and drifter. This was a severe punishment that Cain believed to be even worse than death.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, there are several factors to consider when making an offering to God. The LORD is pleased by offerings that are of the right type, the right quality, and given with the right motivation. We are to give cheerfully of our first and best (2 Corinthians 9:7). This includes our time, talents, and so on. One of the greatest ways to worship the LORD is through giving. Ask yourselves… Are my offerings pleasing to God?

Cain had inherited his patents’ knowledge of good and evil, and like them, he chose to do evil. God lovingly gave him an opportunity to change his attitude and to make an acceptable offering, but he stubbornly refused. Instead, Cain allowed his emotions to control him and ended up killing his brother. Friends, sin is patiently waiting to ambush you at any moment - don’t give it any quarter in your life!

Having to live with your guilt can be a greater punishment than death. God didn’t allow anyone to kill Cain, thereby prolonging his life and the shame he carried. The Bible strongly insinuates that Cain never expressed any remorse for and/or repented of his sin. That said, if you have sinned against the LORD, don’t be like Cain. Confess your sin, turn from it, and receive forgiveness through the blood of Jesus Christ.

For we will surely die and are like water spilled on the ground which cannot be gathered up again. Yet God does not take away life, but thinks up ways so that the banished one will not be cast out from him. - 2 Samuel 14:14

Following their sin in the Garden of Eden, the LORD pronounced curses upon Adam, Eve, and the serpent (aka the Devil). The effects of these curses impacted not only them, but also their posterity going forward. Thus, all of humanity fell under the curse and now suffers from its devastating consequences. Besides people, the earth itself was cursed, including the animals and plants, thereby tainting all of creation.

In last Sunday’s message, we talked about the natural or temporal effects of God’s curses as they apply to our lives on earth. Pain, suffering, strife, sorrow, tiresome labor, and physical death all resulted from the curses, which were issued as the just punishment for man’s sin. Yet, even as God spoke these judgments upon creation, He foretold of a coming Redeemer.

This morning, we are going to focus primarily on the spiritual consequences of Adam and Eve’s sin. These are even more significant and detrimental than the physical ones. I’ve titled this message “Expelled from the Garden” and we will be reading from the final verses of Genesis 3.

I. GARMENTS OF SKIN (v20-21)

Now the man, Adam, called his wife Eve because she was the mother of all living. God made garments of skin for them. He clothed Adam and Eve in these garments.

The name Eve means “living” or “source of life”. Although they didn’t have any children just yet, Adam and Eve would become the original ancestors of all people. As we discussed in a previous sermon, Adam was the only man that God created (Genesis 2:5). So also, Eve was the only woman God created and would become “the mother of all living”. Every person who has ever existed can trace their lineage back to Adam and Eve.

Aware of their guilt, Adam and Eve had sewn together fig leaves to cover their loins. This symbolized their futile attempt to cover their sin. Despite their disobedience, as an indication of His continued love for them, God prepared more suitable clothing for the couple. He made garments for them out of skins, understood to be the hides of animals. This is the 1st example of animal sacrifice in the Bible, performed by God Himself, and it foreshadows the sacrificial system that would be given to Israel centuries later. Ultimately, of course, it points to the only true sacrifice, that of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 10:10-14).

We discover an important Biblical principle in this verse. Without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sin (Hebrews 9:22). Plants are not an acceptable sacrifice for sin, and are not sufficient to atone for or cover it. Although plants are living things, they are not conscious and the Bible does not view them as highly as animals and people.

II. THE TREE OF LIFE (v22)

God said, “Man has become like Us, knowing good and evil”. He concluded that something must be done to prevent the man from eating from the Tree of Life. The fruit from the Tree of Life enabled those who ate it to live forever.

Once again we see God referring to Himself in the plural tense. We encountered this previously when God said, “Let Us create man in Our own image” (Genesis 1:26). These statements show the triune nature of the Godhead. There is 1 God who exists in 3 Persons - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Furthermore, God acknowledged that mankind had acquired the knowledge of good and evil, and thereby now knew the difference between right and wrong. As we talked about last week, with this knowledge came accountability for choosing to do wrong.

God stated that mankind could no longer have access to the Tree of Life. We have spoken quite a bit in the past few weeks about the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, but have said very little about the Tree of Life. This verse states that the Tree of Life was like the mythical fountain of youth, and that those who partook of it would live forever. Obviously mankind, who was now destined to die as the result of their sin, could no longer be allowed to eat from it.

III. GUARDING THE GARDEN (v23-24)

So the LORD sent Adam and Eve out of the garden. They were to cultivate the land, grow their own food, and work hard to provide for themselves. In order to prevent man from returning to the garden, God stationed cherubim (or angels) and a flaming sword to guard the way to the Tree of Life.

God expelled Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden. They could no longer abide personally with Him. Their relationship with God had been severed and they were now alienated from Him. This division did not only affect them, but all of their offspring - that is, every person who has ever lived. As the result of our sin, we are all separated from God (Isaiah 59:2). We have all been, figuratively speaking, cast out of the garden. This expulsion is a picture of our fallen spiritual condition.

In addition to driving them out, God posted a guard to ensure that they could never return. In other words, there was nothing man could do to restore his relationship with God and/or to prevent his eventual physical death. All was lost, or so it seemed…  

CONCLUSION

The prospect that we can never be reconciled to God, our Creator, but rather are destined to be separated from Him forever is far worse than any other curse imaginable. The toil and hardships of this present life pale in comparison to that of eternity. But, thankfully, there is hope for lost sinners. There is a way to be forgiven of sin, to be pardoned of its penalty, and to have your relationship with God restored.

That said, it can not be accomplished by human effort. Just as Adam and Eve sinned, so also have we. And, just as they were cast out from God's presence, so also our sin has alienated us from Him. Finally, just as they could not return to the garden, neither can we restore our relationship with God. Fortunately, God Himself provided the Way for us to be reconciled with Him - Jesus Christ.

God so loved the world that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross as a substitute for mankind’s sin. Jesus bore all of humanity’s sin upon Himself, offered Himself as an acceptable sacrifice before the Father, and secured forgiveness and salvation for all who would believe. Accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior is the only way to be brought back into a proper relationship with God. While we will all still suffer from the temporal consequences of sin in this life, including physical death, Jesus has made a way for us to have eternal life in Him.

And there will no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and His slaves will serve Him; - Revelation 22:3

After creating the heavens and the earth (the natural universe) God fashioned a man, Adam, from the dust of the ground and a woman, Eve, from Adam’s rib to live in the Garden of Eden. They were made in God’s image, were joined together as husband and wife, and were commanded to be “fruitful and multiply”. Tragically, they were deceived by the serpent (the Devil) and sinned against God.

In this morning’s message we will begin to consider the grave consequences of Adam and Eve’s sin. Today we will focus primarily on the natural consequences that would affect them (and their descendants) during their temporal lives on the earth. Next week we will discuss the spiritual consequences of their sin.

I have titled this sermon “God’s Curses". It is the 12th message of our current series. The text for this message is found in Genesis 3:14-19.

I. THE SERPENT’S CURSE (v14-15)

After confronting Adam and Eve about their sinful disobedience, God turned to the serpent and pronounced a curse upon him. The LORD said, “Because you have done this, you are cursed more than any cattle or beast of the field. On your belly you shall go, and eat dust all the days of your life.” Furthermore God stated that He would put enmity between the serpent and the woman and foretold that her seed would crush the serpent's head.

Satan controlled the serpent and used it to tempt Eve. Therefore, God’s curse applies not only to the serpent (an animal), but also to the Devil himself. As for the serpent, apparently it was originally created with legs. As a part of the curse, God changed the serpent’s physical design, so that it would crawl on its belly. This punishment symbolized its degradation and would serve as a lasting reminder of its fall. Furthermore, going forward serpents (snakes) would generally be regarded as vile and despised creatures. Notice that the serpent was cursed more than the other creatures, indicating that other animals were cursed also to a lesser degree, nevertheless resulting in a corruption of the entire animal kingdom. This is possibly when some animals became carnivorous.

The curse against Satan is known by theologians as the Protoevangelium. This Latin term means, “The 1st gospel”. Addressing the Devil directly, God stated that He would put enmity or animosity between he and his followers (the powers of darkness) and the woman and her posterity (mankind). Then God predicted that the Devil would bruise her seed on the heel (a minor wound), but have his own head crushed by her seed (a major, fatal wound). This prophecy refers to Jesus, who was born of a woman, suffered at the hands of Satan, but ultimately conquered sin and death, defeating the Devil forever.

II. THE WOMAN’S CURSE (v16)

Next God turned His attention to Eve. He said, “I will greatly increase your pain during childbirth.” He added, “Your desire shall be for your husband and he shall rule over you.”

As discussed last week, it seems reasonable to believe that if Adam and Eve had borne children prior to the fall of mankind they would not have inherited a sinful nature. Since all people do have a sinful nature (Romans 3:23), it would appear that they had not yet had any children. Thus, we can infer that God’s original intent was for conception, pregnancy, and childbirth to be a relatively pain-free process. But that never happened and, as many of you can attest, bearing children is quite painful.

While Adam and Eve were united in marriage as 1 flesh, the harmony of their relationship would be damaged as the result of their sin. Eve would still desire her husband, but he would rule over her. In other words, there would be a power struggle between them. Conflict and strife would enter into their marriage, resulting in arguments, jealousy, bitterness, and so forth. This breakdown would have profound effects on the family and culture at large.

III. THE MAN’S CURSE (v17-19)

Finally God spoke to Adam. He said, “Cursed is the ground because of your sin. I will cause thorns and thistles to grow in it.” He told Adam that he would have to eat from the plants of the field all the days of his life, painfully laboring to work the land and produce crops necessary for his sustenance. God also declared, “You will return to the ground. From dust you were taken, and to it you will return.”

Up to this point, Adam (and Eve) had been provided food that grew naturally on trees in the garden. But God cursed the ground, including the plants that grew on it, thereby altering this blissful arrangement. All of the earth, nature itself, was adversely affected. As such, it now suffers all sorts of natural disasters - drought, earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, and so forth - that never occurred prior to man’s sin (Romans 8:22).

Adam and his posterity (mankind) would now have to labor and toil in order to provide for themselves. This was the beginning of agriculture, which we mentioned earlier in this series. Men would have to sweat, fighting weeds and other obstacles, to make a living. It would not be easy, but rather painful and tiresome.

As the culminating words of His curses, God informed Adam that he would physically die. God had warned that this would happen if he ate from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. Sure enough, Adam would begin to age and grow old, and would ultimately pass away. After his death, Adam’s physical body would decay into dust, like that from which it had been created. Though this consequence was part of Adam’s curse, it obviously included Eve also.
 
CONCLUSION

In closing, let’s take a look back over God’s curses and list those we’ve identified and discussed in this morning’s message:

• God cursed all the animals, mostly particularly the serpent, causing it to crawl on its belly and forever be despised and downcast.
• God told Satan that the woman’s seed, referring to His Son Jesus, would ultimately crush (or defeat) him. This is the 1st rendering of the gospel in the Bible.
• God greatly increased Eve’s pain in the process leading up to and including childbirth.
• God permitted marital conflict and strained relationships to exist between Adam and Eve.
• God cursed the ground, plants, and nature. As a result, Adam would have to work hard and suffer in order to provide for himself and his family.
• God declared that Adam and Eve would not live forever, but would instead - as He had warned - physically die.

Of course, the curses God pronounced to and upon Adam and Eve actually apply to all of humanity, as all people are descended through them. The consequences of their sin have grossly tainted all of creation - people, animals, plants, and nature. While we have emphasized the physical, earthly fallout of their disobedience in this morning’s passage, next week we will examine the spiritual consequences of their sin.

Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned. - Romans 5:12

Welcome! What a joy it is to begin another week in church together. In Genesis chapter 1 God created the heavens and the earth. In chapter 2 He made Adam and Eve and dwelt with them in the Garden of Eden.  

This morning we will begin a 3 week journey through Genesis chapter 3. This is the most disastrous chapter in the entire Bible, as it opens the door for all other misfortunes. Prior to the events of chapter 3, there was no sin and no curse. Everything was perfect, pure, and good. But, as we will see, that all changed.

Today’s message is the 11th in our current sermon series. I have titled it “The Fall of Mankind”. We will be reading and discussing Genesis 3:1-13. 

I. DECEPTION AND LIES (v1-5)

Satan, in the form of a serpent, approached Eve and asked her if God had truly forbidden her and Adam from eating of any tree in the garden. She answered that they could eat from all of them except for the 1 in the midst of the garden, the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. She explained that if they ate of it, or even touched it, they would die. The serpent responded, “You will surely not die!” He told Eve that if they ate from it, they’d become like God knowing good and evil.

It is uncertain how long Adam and Eve lived in the garden prior to their encounter with Satan. Some believe they were there for a long period of time (perhaps even millions of years). However, the Bible seems to suggest, and I tend to agree, that it was a relatively brief period (perhaps just a few days or weeks). They had been commanded to be fruitful and multiply and there is no reason to believe they waited to begin having children, yet their 1st child wasn’t born until after they’d been banished from the garden. Seeing that this child inherited a sinful nature, it seems reasonable to believe that he was conceived after Adam and Eve had already sinned. This implies they didn’t live in the Garden of Eden very long. 

Just as God had planted the Tree of the Knowledge of God and Evil in the garden, so also He permitted Satan (the serpent) to be present in the garden. In order for mankind’s love for God and obedience to Him to be authentic and genuine, it had to be voluntarily. Without a choice, they would have been nothing more than robots.

Notice that the serpent approached Eve rather than Adam. While God personally commanded Adam not to eat of the tree, the Bible doesn’t say that He spoke directly with Eve. Perhaps, in accordance with God’s intended order, Adam told her what God had said, and thus she received the command indirectly. As such, perhaps she didn’t perceive it to be as authoritative as Adam did. Furthermore, Adam may not have appropriately conveyed the seriousness and severity of God’s command to Eve.

The serpent’s questions were intended to sow doubt in Eve’s mind. If you can eat from all the other trees, why not this 1? Satan twisted the truth and told her that she wouldn’t die if she ate from it, but would instead become like God knowing good and evil. He claimed that God was concealing this from her. It was true that she wouldn’t immediately drop dead, but her disobedience would usher in both her physical and spiritual death. It was also true that she’d know the difference between good and evil, but she would have committed evil to attain this knowledge! Satan is a master at temptation, mixing outright lies with half-truths, omitting the consequences, and subtly questioning God’s motives. 

II. TEMPTATION AND SIN (v6-8)

Eve gazed upon the tree, contemplating the serpent’s words, and its fruit seemed delightful. So she took of the fruit, ate it, and gave some to her husband Adam who ate also. Immediately their eyes were opened, they realized that they were naked, and they sewed fig leaves together to cover their loins. Hearing God walking through the garden, the couple hid themselves in the midst of the trees.

Eve should have dismissed the serpent’s words immediately. Instead she pondered them in her heart and mind while staring longingly at the forbidden fruit. This is the danger of temptation. We must immediately reject it, because when we allow it to linger it becomes stronger and stronger. As for Adam, he had received the command not to eat directly from God. He sinned with full knowledge of what he was doing. His disobedience reflected a failure in leadership.

Once they had sinned, Adam and Eve immediately became aware of their guilt. Unlike before, when they were morally innocent and unashamed of their nakedness, now both were fully cognizant of their condition. They now knew good and evil, and had done evil. They sought to cover their nakedness in order to hide their shame. Furthermore, they attempted to hide from God, as if that is even possible (Jeremiah 23:24).

III. GUILT AND EXCUSES (v9-13)

Although God already knew where they were hidden, He gave Adam the chance to reveal himself. The couple came out from their hiding place, and Adam said that he had hidden because he was naked and afraid. God asked him how he knew he was naked, and Adam admitted that he’d eaten from the forbidden tree. Then Eve confessed that she had eaten the fruit as well.

When confronted by God with his disobedience, Adam blamed Eve for convincing him to eat the fruit. She gave it to me, he said. It’s her fault. But beyond that, he blamed God for giving her to him to begin with. If You had not given her to me, he implied, I would not have sinned. As for Eve, she blamed Satan, saying that he had deceived and tricked her. In other words, “the Devil made me do it.”

In this passage we see 3 types of excuses. Some blame their disobedience on the Devil, some blame it on other people, and still others blame it on God. However, none of these excuses are acceptable. Each person is responsible for their own choices and will be held accountable for them (James 4:17).

CONCLUSION

The passage we’ve read and studied this morning describes the 1st or original sin. The serpent tempted Eve and misled her. She and Adam chose to disobey God. They immediately became aware of their sin and were ashamed. However, when the LORD approached them about it they offered excuses for their behavior rather than simply confessing their guilt.

There is a price for knowing the difference between good and evil. While God is mighty enough to always choose good, we are not. In our weakness, we will constantly succumb to temptation, choose to do evil, and suffer the consequences that go with it. Satan knows this full well, and is constantly on the prowl seeking to lead people into sin.

Next week we will take a closer look at the consequences and Adam and Eve’s sin - not just upon themselves, but upon their posterity. We will discuss how their sin alienated them from God and brought about a curse on mankind. Until then, if you have sinned against God (and we all have), stop making excuses and simply come clean. In Christ, He will forgive repentant sinners and wash them as white as snow.