Bible Discussion Thread

Next, I want to comment about what God said to the serpent. I am so glad that God made it clear to Adam and Eve that this flashy, fancy-dancy serpent is not a friend of God or mankind. He let them know that the devil is our enemy and should never be trusted. God let Adam and Eve know that the devil answers to God, not the other way around and that God is more powerful and has more authority than the devil. Those are excellent things to know! God could have spoken to Adam and Eve without the serpent being present and visa-versa. But God wanted both parties to hear what he had to say and what judgements He pronounced for each party. There was so much for Adam and Eve to learn about both God and the devil. It was truly good for them to learn this right away after their first sin of disobedience.

I have always been touched by the story of Joseph and how after it was coming to fruition, Joseph said that what was intended to him for evil, God turned into good to him (paraphrase). Isn't that what happened here in Eden, too? I think this is part of the reason God put so much information in the Bible about certain people and the right and wrong they did in order for those people and us can learn about how He works all things for good to those who love Him and are called by His purpose. ( Romans 8:28) He loves us and nothing can separate us from His love!

Lastly, I have often thought how amazing the cherubim and sword must have looked that guarded the entrance to Eden. Adam and Eve must have been amazed by its beauty and also a bit terrified at the same time. Can we even imagine the outstanding, extraordinariness of heavenly creatures! They rightly put Satan and all fallen angels to shame! No wonder the prophets had such strong physical reactions to the visions God brought to them. Our flesh can barely stand the holy. Not even Moses was allowed to see God's face on Sinai, but He did experience God's glory. Wow! Life changing!