What really happened in the fall? How did the separation between God and man play out after Adam and Eve were deceived by the Serpent and ate of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil? As we examine this ancient story we will find that the catalyst for the fall of man was not necessarily some deep-seeded wickedness within Adam and Eve, instead, we see the craftiness and deception of the Devil causing Adam and Eve to disobey God’s command. Through a careful study of this story, we will find that the root of our separation from God stems from the knowledge of good and evil. Because Adam and Eve judged themselves evil (with the divine ability that they received through eating of the tree) they covered themselves and hid from the presence of God.

Scriptures:

Genesis 3

Think about this -

1. What was God’s initial reaction to Adam and Eve after they disobeyed? Was he angry? Disappointed? How do you know?
2. What was the sequence of consequences for Adam and Eve after eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil?
3. How could the knowledge of good and evil still be hindering your relationship with God today?