Lamech combined his violence with a desire to put himself ahead of God. Notice that he refers back to how God would avenge Cain’s death. Who would avenge Cain if someone killed him? It was God himself, of course.
God’s justice is perfect. He takes everything into account, and knows the heart of every single person, and why they do what they do. He makes no mistakes. He will never sin – He can’t sin. He is perfect. There is such a thing as righteous anger, though some versions remove that; jesus tells His disciples that He who is angry with his brother *without a cause* is sinning. But, God has cause. He created each of us to follow Him, and to not sin. When people commit sin, He has every right to punish us, because we have fallen short of the mark of perfection.
Thankfully, God is also merciful. He doesn’t want to punish sin. He wants to show love and peace to everyone, but we must confess and forsake our sins to do so.
Lamech had no mercy. His idea of vengeance was totally based on the outward appearance, and went totally against God’s ways. His terror and intimidation is just like the devil, who wants to steal our freedom and put God’s creatures under the yoke of oppression.
In doing thins, Lamech was either placing himself above God in the delusional belief that he could cause people to avenge him like that, or he may have actually had such a large mob. If the latter, he would certainly not be the last person to have a huge group of people organized to follow his every command, and avenge any injustice. World dictators for centuries have done the same thing.
More importantly, however, Lamech continued a pattern that was seen since the dawn of time, a pattern of ignoring God in his life. However, he didn’t just disobey God, as Adam and Eve had done. He totally profaned God, by claiming the same rights as God, to determine how he was going to be avenged, and by deciding how life would be governed, ruling by oppression and not by love. Only God, who combines perfect justice with perfect love and mercy, among many other attributes, has the right to decide who lives and who dies. Even when He appoints people to do so, He is truly the one making the decision.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Gen. 4:23
We don’t know when Lamech made the proclamation in this verse and the next. However, the important thing is, it was a sign of his arrogance. Hedecided that he was going to be the ruler of his domain, instead of God. He was going to set all the rules.
First, he deliberately puffs himself up while putting down his wives. What manner of person goes around referring to his wife as “You wife of mine”? God intended the marital union to be one of mutual love. However, even in the most male-dominant cultures, where woman are considered very subservient, they would be addressed by their first names. And yet, Moses, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, states their names right before, perhaps to emphasize that Lamech wouldn’t even do that. He simply referred to them as “ye wives of Lamech.”
Notice, too, what Lamech is boasting about. He uses the word “hearken,” which means that they should do more than just listen. They should be extra attentive, and and act according to what he said; in other words, his desire was to strike an unhealthy fear in them. If Naamah did turn from the wicked ways of Cain, and trust in God completely for salvation by faith, one can’t help but wonder if it was the utter terror of Lamech which caused her to consider just how different and wonderful things were under the unconditional love that was Noah’s house. We who know that love must be careful to always show a great example of Jesus Christ, and to tell others about Him. We never know what kind of situation someone else lives in or has lived in – and, we never know when they might be ready to cry out to Jesus Christ for salvation, if they only know about Him.
The words that inspired such terror follow. Lamech shows himself to be a very violent man with them. He would kill just for small wounds. Jesus Christ tells us to love our enemies, and bless those who persecute us. However, this goes beyond even the “eye for an eye” justice thatGod established in the Mosaic covenant, a covenant that was supposed to show people just they couldn’t keep the whole law, and draw them to Himself. Lamech’s law was that would kill anyone who got in his way. It was a law that put all the focus on himself.
When we put all the focus on ourselves, we wind up forgetting that God is in control,a nd has placed thigns in our lives to help us. Of course, sometimes others do evil things to us, but God can turn that evil around, and use it unto good, as Joseph told his brothers, for instance. (Gen. 50:20) God wants us to keep the focus totally on Him; to be filled (that is, controlled) by the Spirit at all times. (Eph. 5:18) That is impossible in our sinful state, of course, but this is why Christ’s shed blood is so important. We must never return slights with such evil. We must instead be willing to forgive others who sin differently than we do.
First, he deliberately puffs himself up while putting down his wives. What manner of person goes around referring to his wife as “You wife of mine”? God intended the marital union to be one of mutual love. However, even in the most male-dominant cultures, where woman are considered very subservient, they would be addressed by their first names. And yet, Moses, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, states their names right before, perhaps to emphasize that Lamech wouldn’t even do that. He simply referred to them as “ye wives of Lamech.”
Notice, too, what Lamech is boasting about. He uses the word “hearken,” which means that they should do more than just listen. They should be extra attentive, and and act according to what he said; in other words, his desire was to strike an unhealthy fear in them. If Naamah did turn from the wicked ways of Cain, and trust in God completely for salvation by faith, one can’t help but wonder if it was the utter terror of Lamech which caused her to consider just how different and wonderful things were under the unconditional love that was Noah’s house. We who know that love must be careful to always show a great example of Jesus Christ, and to tell others about Him. We never know what kind of situation someone else lives in or has lived in – and, we never know when they might be ready to cry out to Jesus Christ for salvation, if they only know about Him.
The words that inspired such terror follow. Lamech shows himself to be a very violent man with them. He would kill just for small wounds. Jesus Christ tells us to love our enemies, and bless those who persecute us. However, this goes beyond even the “eye for an eye” justice thatGod established in the Mosaic covenant, a covenant that was supposed to show people just they couldn’t keep the whole law, and draw them to Himself. Lamech’s law was that would kill anyone who got in his way. It was a law that put all the focus on himself.
When we put all the focus on ourselves, we wind up forgetting that God is in control,a nd has placed thigns in our lives to help us. Of course, sometimes others do evil things to us, but God can turn that evil around, and use it unto good, as Joseph told his brothers, for instance. (Gen. 50:20) God wants us to keep the focus totally on Him; to be filled (that is, controlled) by the Spirit at all times. (Eph. 5:18) That is impossible in our sinful state, of course, but this is why Christ’s shed blood is so important. We must never return slights with such evil. We must instead be willing to forgive others who sin differently than we do.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Gen. 4:22
We turn next to Lamech’s other wife, Zillah. We see a few interesting things here.
One of her sons was Tubal-Cain. Several people believe this is the heathens’ “Vulcan,’ as both ere skilled with the production of weapons, and of smithing iron in general. Others had done it before, but he raised it to an art form. Hence, this term is different than the verses which describe Jabal and Jubal. Tubal-Cain is said to be an instructor of every maker of brass and iron things. This implies that there were makers before. He simply introduced many new ways.
Naamah, one sister, was known for her beauty according to many, and some believe she was the inspiration for the heathen Venus or Minerva.
God’s reason for introducing these two is uncertain; especially Naamah, about whom nothing else is said. John Gill, in his commentary on this verse, does an excellent job of considering a variety of different identities for Naamah, I invite readers who are interested to look into that further, as he lists where some of these ideas came from. However, as a number of sources point to her as the wife of Noah, or of Ham, let me address these two possibilities here.
First, God would not have let unrighteous flesh on the Ark, when the mind of man was on evil continually. Of course, there is none righteous; no, not one. (Rom. 3:10) Noah was found to be “perfect” in his generation because he’d kept the commands of God, and trusted in God for forgiveness when he sinned. Like Abraham, he believed God, and that was what was counted to him for righteousness. It’s unlikely that someone who followed God that closely would allow his son to marry someone who wasn’t following God. It’s highly unlikely that someone following God that closely would marry someone who was totally away from God. However, it’s impossible that a perfect and holy God, who was destroying all flesh off the face of the earth, would allow some of that evil onto the very ark that was being used to start the world anew.
Now, that doesn’t mean that someone couldn’t have been saved out of the line of Cain. Descent from Adam caused the sin nature that we all have; and, which even Noah had. They would have had to commit totally to God’s principles, and turn away from idolatry 100%. But, someone saved out of that line would explain why the world quickly slipped back into darkness later, if that person chose to turn back to idolatry. One need only look at Moses’ brother Aaron, who was goaded by the people into making a golden calf to worship at the time of the Exodus. On the other hand, it doesn’t take a bad influence from the outside to get people to fall into sin. We are perfectly capable of that ourselves, sadly enough.
So, could Naamah have been Noah’s wife? She is a couple generations before Noah, if one counts the number of generations. However, that isn’t as important. We don’t know how long it took for people to marry in the line of Cain. We don’t even know what generation her mother Zillah was from; it’s possible Lamech chose a much younger woman. So, she could actually have been from the same generation as Noah. We also have the fact Noah didn’t have Shem, Ham, and Japheth till he was 500 years old, though he could have had others before that. So, it’s possible, but by no means certain, that he waited that long for a wife. However, as noted above, it’s not very likely. There are more “traditions” that state she was Ham’s wife than ones stating she was Noah’s; of course, traditions are not always true.
So, what about Ham? While a wife of Noah would have possibly influenced all three children in a negative way, the wife of Ham would be a much more logical person on whom to place blame for one person in particular – Canaan. Canaan’s children (Gen. 10:15-18) were the fathers of the people who did all the horrible things, including child sacrifices, that God eventually punished by allowing the Israelis to conquer them. Another of Ham’s son’s, Cush, begat Nimrod, the first man to try and build a world empire, as we’ll see later. The age thing, while more of a problem and a lot harder it was for Noah, isn’t impossible to overcome, if one argues that Naamah was Ham’s wife.
There is, then, some credible argument for Naamah being Ham’s wife, if indeed she turned back to her idolatrous ways. However, it is also possible that Naamah was like Ruth, a convert who stayed true to the faith, and that Noah simply waited a long time for her.
Finally, it is quite possible, perhaps likely, that Naamah married neither, but instead perished in the Flood. The apocryphal book Tobit is not Scripture. It has things that don’t mesh with the other 66 books of the Bible, which agree perfectly. But, according to Gill, Tobit mentions an evil spirit who mother was supposedly Naamah.
This is untrue, as a person would not literally give birth to an “evil spirit.” However, it shows the conjecture that exists. One might also note that the writer of another apocryphal book, Jubilees, gives a name for Ham’s wife that is very similar. This is much less fanciful than the Tobit example, but if it’s true, it’s merely a coincidence that an apocryphal book mentions it.
We don’t know why Scripture mentions Naamah, with Adah and Zillah the only women mentioned by name all the way from Eve to Sarah, despite many generations. Perhaps the best conclusion is that God has reasons which we don’t always understand. It can be fun to consider what that reason was. However, the important part must never be lost on people. God’s Word exist for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. Naamah’s presence should remind us that God remembes all our deeds, whether good or evil, whether open or hidden. Just because nothing more is known to us about her, doesn’t mean anything was hidden from God. He knew her, and judged her according to her knowledge of Him and whether she ever received His forgiveness for her sins by faith that He would one day send a Redeemer for her.
One of her sons was Tubal-Cain. Several people believe this is the heathens’ “Vulcan,’ as both ere skilled with the production of weapons, and of smithing iron in general. Others had done it before, but he raised it to an art form. Hence, this term is different than the verses which describe Jabal and Jubal. Tubal-Cain is said to be an instructor of every maker of brass and iron things. This implies that there were makers before. He simply introduced many new ways.
Naamah, one sister, was known for her beauty according to many, and some believe she was the inspiration for the heathen Venus or Minerva.
God’s reason for introducing these two is uncertain; especially Naamah, about whom nothing else is said. John Gill, in his commentary on this verse, does an excellent job of considering a variety of different identities for Naamah, I invite readers who are interested to look into that further, as he lists where some of these ideas came from. However, as a number of sources point to her as the wife of Noah, or of Ham, let me address these two possibilities here.
First, God would not have let unrighteous flesh on the Ark, when the mind of man was on evil continually. Of course, there is none righteous; no, not one. (Rom. 3:10) Noah was found to be “perfect” in his generation because he’d kept the commands of God, and trusted in God for forgiveness when he sinned. Like Abraham, he believed God, and that was what was counted to him for righteousness. It’s unlikely that someone who followed God that closely would allow his son to marry someone who wasn’t following God. It’s highly unlikely that someone following God that closely would marry someone who was totally away from God. However, it’s impossible that a perfect and holy God, who was destroying all flesh off the face of the earth, would allow some of that evil onto the very ark that was being used to start the world anew.
Now, that doesn’t mean that someone couldn’t have been saved out of the line of Cain. Descent from Adam caused the sin nature that we all have; and, which even Noah had. They would have had to commit totally to God’s principles, and turn away from idolatry 100%. But, someone saved out of that line would explain why the world quickly slipped back into darkness later, if that person chose to turn back to idolatry. One need only look at Moses’ brother Aaron, who was goaded by the people into making a golden calf to worship at the time of the Exodus. On the other hand, it doesn’t take a bad influence from the outside to get people to fall into sin. We are perfectly capable of that ourselves, sadly enough.
So, could Naamah have been Noah’s wife? She is a couple generations before Noah, if one counts the number of generations. However, that isn’t as important. We don’t know how long it took for people to marry in the line of Cain. We don’t even know what generation her mother Zillah was from; it’s possible Lamech chose a much younger woman. So, she could actually have been from the same generation as Noah. We also have the fact Noah didn’t have Shem, Ham, and Japheth till he was 500 years old, though he could have had others before that. So, it’s possible, but by no means certain, that he waited that long for a wife. However, as noted above, it’s not very likely. There are more “traditions” that state she was Ham’s wife than ones stating she was Noah’s; of course, traditions are not always true.
So, what about Ham? While a wife of Noah would have possibly influenced all three children in a negative way, the wife of Ham would be a much more logical person on whom to place blame for one person in particular – Canaan. Canaan’s children (Gen. 10:15-18) were the fathers of the people who did all the horrible things, including child sacrifices, that God eventually punished by allowing the Israelis to conquer them. Another of Ham’s son’s, Cush, begat Nimrod, the first man to try and build a world empire, as we’ll see later. The age thing, while more of a problem and a lot harder it was for Noah, isn’t impossible to overcome, if one argues that Naamah was Ham’s wife.
There is, then, some credible argument for Naamah being Ham’s wife, if indeed she turned back to her idolatrous ways. However, it is also possible that Naamah was like Ruth, a convert who stayed true to the faith, and that Noah simply waited a long time for her.
Finally, it is quite possible, perhaps likely, that Naamah married neither, but instead perished in the Flood. The apocryphal book Tobit is not Scripture. It has things that don’t mesh with the other 66 books of the Bible, which agree perfectly. But, according to Gill, Tobit mentions an evil spirit who mother was supposedly Naamah.
This is untrue, as a person would not literally give birth to an “evil spirit.” However, it shows the conjecture that exists. One might also note that the writer of another apocryphal book, Jubilees, gives a name for Ham’s wife that is very similar. This is much less fanciful than the Tobit example, but if it’s true, it’s merely a coincidence that an apocryphal book mentions it.
We don’t know why Scripture mentions Naamah, with Adah and Zillah the only women mentioned by name all the way from Eve to Sarah, despite many generations. Perhaps the best conclusion is that God has reasons which we don’t always understand. It can be fun to consider what that reason was. However, the important part must never be lost on people. God’s Word exist for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. Naamah’s presence should remind us that God remembes all our deeds, whether good or evil, whether open or hidden. Just because nothing more is known to us about her, doesn’t mean anything was hidden from God. He knew her, and judged her according to her knowledge of Him and whether she ever received His forgiveness for her sins by faith that He would one day send a Redeemer for her.
Gen. 4:21
One might guess that populations were in the millions by this time, because the ages people lived to would mean they had dozens of children, as women could have remained fertile till they were a hundred or two, given the still perfect environment, with the water shild protecting the warm, tropical earth from deadly cosmic rays, combined with a lack of deteriorating diseases yet. One tradition states that Adam and Eve had 77 children. Given that, the wording here is interesting.
We read, at the start of this first, that “Jabal’s brother” was Jubal. Not one of his brothers – his brother. It’s possible, of course, that this was just referring to his most famous brother – we don’t really know why God phrased it this way. It’s also possible he had only one brother and dozens of sisters. It’s also possible that for some reason, Lamech was not blessed with many descendants on purpose. Perhaps Adah, their mother, was treated very roughly by her husband, to where she couldn’t conceive. Perhaps she even died young. Or, perhaps God just closed up her womb after a time, because of the wickedness of the world.
Whatever the reason, we see that God is in control. It is He that decides whether someone will conceive and when. He has much more information aobut things than we do; an infinite amount, in fact. He knows what’s best, while we often stagger along in total confusion about what is best. Even when we wind up better than most, however, our best guess is still far away from God’s perfection. Imperfect man can never approach the perfection of our holy God.
We read that Jubal was the father of whose who played music. We don’t know if these were the first musical instruments. Anthropologists today tell us drums are often the first, and this seems to be born out by small children who like to pound on things. However, there’s a difference between these and what Jubal likely did.
Drums aren’t mentioned in the Bible. The more melodious instruments – the harp being one – are often mentioned, however. Drums can only provide a pounding beat, whereas other instruments can provide a more flowing melody. A beat to music can allow one to be put into a trance, if it’s hard enough; when a group of teens on a mission trip had a radio playing rock music, in fact, it prompted one native to proclaim that the music was “calling the devils.” It’s likely that there were drums before this, but the music was probably not soothing, like that of a harp, for instance.
In that case, it’s interesting to note that it was one of Cain’s line to create this melodious sound; to be the father of beautiful music, and to teach in the art of it. This brings up two points.
First, just because something sounds good doesn’t mean it is. We don’t know what kind of music was played, but again, there is no evidence that Jubal played this music for the Lord. There is no evidence that he didn’t, but we can be certain that not all of the music produced by Jubal and his craftsmen praised God. And, it’s possible none did. Music should praise the One who provided the talent, just as scientific discoveries should glorify God, as noted above.
Second, look at the Godly people who have created beautiful music through the years. King David was very skilled at the harp, for instance. God took something that a wicked, evil line created. And, He turned it into something that would glorify Him.
Many things in this world today can be used for good, or for evil. It hasn’t changed since the dawn of time. It’s no wonder that Solomon wrote that “There is nothing new under the sun.” (Ecc. 1:9) Turning back to the illustrations that were used before,w hen discussing Creation, of course there have been new inventions and such. However, the age-old battle between God and the devil, with God trying to turn things to be used for good and the devil the other way, has existed since the dawn of time. There are some things, of course, that are always evil if used in a certain way, of course; people should never consume poisons, for instance. However, like other things, it doesn’t mean that the things themselves are bad. Music can be used to uplift, soothe, encourage, and strengthen one in one’s walk with God. It’s been used to wistness to others about his wonderful works. Just because Jubal was the first main teacher of things like the harp doesn’t mean that all music is therefore bad. David used the same instrument for great things.
We read, at the start of this first, that “Jabal’s brother” was Jubal. Not one of his brothers – his brother. It’s possible, of course, that this was just referring to his most famous brother – we don’t really know why God phrased it this way. It’s also possible he had only one brother and dozens of sisters. It’s also possible that for some reason, Lamech was not blessed with many descendants on purpose. Perhaps Adah, their mother, was treated very roughly by her husband, to where she couldn’t conceive. Perhaps she even died young. Or, perhaps God just closed up her womb after a time, because of the wickedness of the world.
Whatever the reason, we see that God is in control. It is He that decides whether someone will conceive and when. He has much more information aobut things than we do; an infinite amount, in fact. He knows what’s best, while we often stagger along in total confusion about what is best. Even when we wind up better than most, however, our best guess is still far away from God’s perfection. Imperfect man can never approach the perfection of our holy God.
We read that Jubal was the father of whose who played music. We don’t know if these were the first musical instruments. Anthropologists today tell us drums are often the first, and this seems to be born out by small children who like to pound on things. However, there’s a difference between these and what Jubal likely did.
Drums aren’t mentioned in the Bible. The more melodious instruments – the harp being one – are often mentioned, however. Drums can only provide a pounding beat, whereas other instruments can provide a more flowing melody. A beat to music can allow one to be put into a trance, if it’s hard enough; when a group of teens on a mission trip had a radio playing rock music, in fact, it prompted one native to proclaim that the music was “calling the devils.” It’s likely that there were drums before this, but the music was probably not soothing, like that of a harp, for instance.
In that case, it’s interesting to note that it was one of Cain’s line to create this melodious sound; to be the father of beautiful music, and to teach in the art of it. This brings up two points.
First, just because something sounds good doesn’t mean it is. We don’t know what kind of music was played, but again, there is no evidence that Jubal played this music for the Lord. There is no evidence that he didn’t, but we can be certain that not all of the music produced by Jubal and his craftsmen praised God. And, it’s possible none did. Music should praise the One who provided the talent, just as scientific discoveries should glorify God, as noted above.
Second, look at the Godly people who have created beautiful music through the years. King David was very skilled at the harp, for instance. God took something that a wicked, evil line created. And, He turned it into something that would glorify Him.
Many things in this world today can be used for good, or for evil. It hasn’t changed since the dawn of time. It’s no wonder that Solomon wrote that “There is nothing new under the sun.” (Ecc. 1:9) Turning back to the illustrations that were used before,w hen discussing Creation, of course there have been new inventions and such. However, the age-old battle between God and the devil, with God trying to turn things to be used for good and the devil the other way, has existed since the dawn of time. There are some things, of course, that are always evil if used in a certain way, of course; people should never consume poisons, for instance. However, like other things, it doesn’t mean that the things themselves are bad. Music can be used to uplift, soothe, encourage, and strengthen one in one’s walk with God. It’s been used to wistness to others about his wonderful works. Just because Jubal was the first main teacher of things like the harp doesn’t mean that all music is therefore bad. David used the same instrument for great things.
Gen. 4:20
We learn a little about the development of several modern conveniences here. First, we reach about Jabal. The Bible tells us he was the father of a couple different groups. “Father,” here, means the founder of something, just as George Washington has been called the “Father of his country” by Americans, or Hippocrates is called the “Father of modern medicine.”
The groups that Jabal founded are mentioned together. It is uncertain whether these were one and the same, or not. As mentioned in the study of verse 2, it could mean that he was the first to be involved in animal husbandry, the breeding of animals for specific purposes. It could also mean he was the first the wandering, nomadic cowboys. Both, of course, could be possible; he could have had a large empire of cattle, dominating the market, so to speak. It is also possible that cattle were not domesticated for a few hundred years after sheep – and, presumably, other animals – were.
Either way, he did something new. It was a good thing, but done in the wrong way. Jabal didn’t honor God in what he did, just like many who make the world better today.
Consider the mind of most who wish to better humanity. It might be through developing a new way to help people – like the person who first trained guide dogs. It might be through developing better ways to harvest foods. Both of these, and many other good things, can provide lots of benefits to society. God lets us dominion over all the earth because He wants us to use the gifts He gave us – whether it’s guide dogs to help the blind or cattle for milk and as beasts of burden.
However, too often, we lose sight of the Creator. We fail to give Him glory when we see an animal trained to guide people, or rescue them from things like the rubble of an earthquake. These are creatures trained to do this because they are gifts from God. If a Jabal would simply have glorified God when he discovered how to use cattle in whatever manner he did - whether through breeding, through nomadic herding and selling of milk, or whatever – think how much more wonderful it would have been. Yet Jabal, like many of us, is not shown to have ever given God any praise for the ability to use the gifts God gave him. Oh, that we would celebrate true science, that doesn’t conflict with Scripture, by praising God! And yet, when was the last time we saw something like a guide dog – and I’m preaching to myself here, too – and glorified God for the use of that animal? Indeed, when was the last time we saw any invention, and glorified Him?
Some smaller note, of course, should be made of those who dwell in tents. It doesn’t say whether Jabal himself lived a nomadic life, or whether he simply established the concept and taught others to do so. A nomadic life isn’t necessary, of course, to raise cattle; although it took the invention of barbed wire to make settling down and raising large numbers of cattle easy in America’s West. However, it’s possible, too, that the two are totally separate.
While mankind was first placed in a garden, rather than a city, God wanted man to have a place of stability. He didn’t create man to roam, always wondering where he would sleep next. He wanted people to hve stable homes, stable lives, and so on. Of course, sin messed all that up, but a simple life that is secure in the knowledge of God’s leadership in it is still possible, even in our hectic 21st century world. The fact is, Jabal’s dwelling in tents proved that he lacked that security which was only a single, sincere call for help from God away. Let us pray peole today don’t make the same mistake of living their lives in uncertainty, without seeking His forgiveness.
The groups that Jabal founded are mentioned together. It is uncertain whether these were one and the same, or not. As mentioned in the study of verse 2, it could mean that he was the first to be involved in animal husbandry, the breeding of animals for specific purposes. It could also mean he was the first the wandering, nomadic cowboys. Both, of course, could be possible; he could have had a large empire of cattle, dominating the market, so to speak. It is also possible that cattle were not domesticated for a few hundred years after sheep – and, presumably, other animals – were.
Either way, he did something new. It was a good thing, but done in the wrong way. Jabal didn’t honor God in what he did, just like many who make the world better today.
Consider the mind of most who wish to better humanity. It might be through developing a new way to help people – like the person who first trained guide dogs. It might be through developing better ways to harvest foods. Both of these, and many other good things, can provide lots of benefits to society. God lets us dominion over all the earth because He wants us to use the gifts He gave us – whether it’s guide dogs to help the blind or cattle for milk and as beasts of burden.
However, too often, we lose sight of the Creator. We fail to give Him glory when we see an animal trained to guide people, or rescue them from things like the rubble of an earthquake. These are creatures trained to do this because they are gifts from God. If a Jabal would simply have glorified God when he discovered how to use cattle in whatever manner he did - whether through breeding, through nomadic herding and selling of milk, or whatever – think how much more wonderful it would have been. Yet Jabal, like many of us, is not shown to have ever given God any praise for the ability to use the gifts God gave him. Oh, that we would celebrate true science, that doesn’t conflict with Scripture, by praising God! And yet, when was the last time we saw something like a guide dog – and I’m preaching to myself here, too – and glorified God for the use of that animal? Indeed, when was the last time we saw any invention, and glorified Him?
Some smaller note, of course, should be made of those who dwell in tents. It doesn’t say whether Jabal himself lived a nomadic life, or whether he simply established the concept and taught others to do so. A nomadic life isn’t necessary, of course, to raise cattle; although it took the invention of barbed wire to make settling down and raising large numbers of cattle easy in America’s West. However, it’s possible, too, that the two are totally separate.
While mankind was first placed in a garden, rather than a city, God wanted man to have a place of stability. He didn’t create man to roam, always wondering where he would sleep next. He wanted people to hve stable homes, stable lives, and so on. Of course, sin messed all that up, but a simple life that is secure in the knowledge of God’s leadership in it is still possible, even in our hectic 21st century world. The fact is, Jabal’s dwelling in tents proved that he lacked that security which was only a single, sincere call for help from God away. Let us pray peole today don’t make the same mistake of living their lives in uncertainty, without seeking His forgiveness.
Gen. 4:19
We se here the first example of mankind going against God’s rules on marriage by taking two wives. Nowhere does God say it’s okay to have more than one wife. He allowed in in his love and patience toward people at times, but it was always sin, going away from His intended purpose.
Note, too, that Lamech took the wives. Nothing is sais about God marrying them, or even endorsing this action. By this time, mankind – even Seth’s line – had begun to pollute the world with wickedness, which would eventually lead to the destruction of all flesh.
Notice, too, that this was the type of thing God warned Even would happen. The stronger man, accustomed to hunting and other physical labor all his life, felt that he could force his wishes upon women. As we’ll see in verse 23, he was that way with everyone, so it makes sense that he would think he could just take whatever he wanted through brute strength, not considering others and certainly not considering God.
Note, too, that Lamech took the wives. Nothing is sais about God marrying them, or even endorsing this action. By this time, mankind – even Seth’s line – had begun to pollute the world with wickedness, which would eventually lead to the destruction of all flesh.
Notice, too, that this was the type of thing God warned Even would happen. The stronger man, accustomed to hunting and other physical labor all his life, felt that he could force his wishes upon women. As we’ll see in verse 23, he was that way with everyone, so it makes sense that he would think he could just take whatever he wanted through brute strength, not considering others and certainly not considering God.
Gen. 4:18
This verse goes through the genealogy very quickly. Interestingly, while the Lamech in the line of Cain fathers a number of people who will be noted later, nobody is said to do much of anything before then. They chose to ignore God, so God, sadly, let them have free choice.
The same goes on today. People get so caught up in the world that they forget about God completely. They forget they have a Maker, a Creator, Who is looking out for them. One who loves them and longs to nurture them, if they will only come to Him. Remember, His first words to the first sinners were “Where art though” – a fact no doubt told to those of Cain’s line by those of Seth’s. However, as we’ll see at the end of chapter 4, instead of coming to Him with repentant hearts, people chose to start going away from Him far before any of the other things which will be mentioned in the interceding verses.
The same goes on today. People get so caught up in the world that they forget about God completely. They forget they have a Maker, a Creator, Who is looking out for them. One who loves them and longs to nurture them, if they will only come to Him. Remember, His first words to the first sinners were “Where art though” – a fact no doubt told to those of Cain’s line by those of Seth’s. However, as we’ll see at the end of chapter 4, instead of coming to Him with repentant hearts, people chose to start going away from Him far before any of the other things which will be mentioned in the interceding verses.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Gen. 4:17
The first indication of this focus on self, not on God is that Cain knew (that is, knew carnally, in this case had a child with) his wife.
As noted elsewhere, Genesis 5:4 shows Cain married a sister. This could be done because there wasn’t the problem with inbreeding yet, as the gene pools were still huge, and not narrowed down like they would be. It could have happened right then or later. Indeed, they could have married before Cain killed Abel. We are not told.
However, even if Cain’s murder of Abel occurred after they married, this is the first instance where we must ask, “What could she have seen in that guy?” Forget the lack of social taboos and lack of problems with inbreeding, since the world was so young. He had walked away from God’s mercy and grace before he murdered her brother, Abel. He wouldn’t listen to God’s call to return.
Look back to our discussions of ideal relationships. The ideal relationship is one where the man is the spiritual leader, but there is unity between the two otherwise. One side doesn’t overpower the other. Instead, each side lovingly gives of himself or herself to please the other. Cain’s wife could - and should - have refused to have anything to do with a man who wouldn’t follow the Lord. If they were unequally yoked, she should have been willing to follow the Lord anyway.
We saw in Gen. 3:16 how a woman’s desire would be to her husband. This is compounded by the man being - in many cases - more physically and emotionally powerful. This is one of the major problems with relationships to this day. They’re not equal in the ways they should be. Yes, women look to men for protection at times, and sometimes, past problems demand it. Every situation is different. However, women should avoid any situation where a man can totally dominate them, unless they are very frail, and that man is so totally loving and devoted they would never take unfair advantage of this. United States President McKinley, for instance, may have been such a figure, given his wife’s epilepsy and his care for her at a time when such a condition wasn’t accepted. He protected her from much ridicule, and loved her unconditionally.
Cain, of course, was the exact opposite. Whether it was his domineering nature, or whether she became so smitten by him she couldn’t think straight, they married, and had a son. He received the same name as a later son in Adam’s line up to Noah. There is an amazing contrast between a man about whom almost nothing is known, and the later man, in Adam’s line, who walked so wonderfully with God.
Eve, on the other hand, declared immediately after giving birth that she had gotten a man from the Lord – she acknowledged God in it.
Cain didn’t honor God in having a son. The name didn’t even reveal anything of God’s nature. He named it after his son. It’s as if he was saying, “I had this child, I will build a city to show my greatness.” Cain was puffed up with pride, just as the devil had been.
Certainly, there are times in life when we name things after others. We give gifts in memory of loved ones. But, the point is, we should never allow that to overshadow God’s work. Yes, a foundation to honor the memory of someone is wonderful. A house that bears someone’s name is fine. But, these things must be done with the reminder that, “This is named after ‘x,’ a person greatly used by God for a purpose.” Even if that purpose is dying young so that others might be moved to fight a certain cause, something God can certainly use for His glory.
Cain was already out from the presence of the Lord, though, as explained earlier. He had no use for God in his life. He wouldn’t consider God’s role in his city.
As noted elsewhere, Genesis 5:4 shows Cain married a sister. This could be done because there wasn’t the problem with inbreeding yet, as the gene pools were still huge, and not narrowed down like they would be. It could have happened right then or later. Indeed, they could have married before Cain killed Abel. We are not told.
However, even if Cain’s murder of Abel occurred after they married, this is the first instance where we must ask, “What could she have seen in that guy?” Forget the lack of social taboos and lack of problems with inbreeding, since the world was so young. He had walked away from God’s mercy and grace before he murdered her brother, Abel. He wouldn’t listen to God’s call to return.
Look back to our discussions of ideal relationships. The ideal relationship is one where the man is the spiritual leader, but there is unity between the two otherwise. One side doesn’t overpower the other. Instead, each side lovingly gives of himself or herself to please the other. Cain’s wife could - and should - have refused to have anything to do with a man who wouldn’t follow the Lord. If they were unequally yoked, she should have been willing to follow the Lord anyway.
We saw in Gen. 3:16 how a woman’s desire would be to her husband. This is compounded by the man being - in many cases - more physically and emotionally powerful. This is one of the major problems with relationships to this day. They’re not equal in the ways they should be. Yes, women look to men for protection at times, and sometimes, past problems demand it. Every situation is different. However, women should avoid any situation where a man can totally dominate them, unless they are very frail, and that man is so totally loving and devoted they would never take unfair advantage of this. United States President McKinley, for instance, may have been such a figure, given his wife’s epilepsy and his care for her at a time when such a condition wasn’t accepted. He protected her from much ridicule, and loved her unconditionally.
Cain, of course, was the exact opposite. Whether it was his domineering nature, or whether she became so smitten by him she couldn’t think straight, they married, and had a son. He received the same name as a later son in Adam’s line up to Noah. There is an amazing contrast between a man about whom almost nothing is known, and the later man, in Adam’s line, who walked so wonderfully with God.
Eve, on the other hand, declared immediately after giving birth that she had gotten a man from the Lord – she acknowledged God in it.
Cain didn’t honor God in having a son. The name didn’t even reveal anything of God’s nature. He named it after his son. It’s as if he was saying, “I had this child, I will build a city to show my greatness.” Cain was puffed up with pride, just as the devil had been.
Certainly, there are times in life when we name things after others. We give gifts in memory of loved ones. But, the point is, we should never allow that to overshadow God’s work. Yes, a foundation to honor the memory of someone is wonderful. A house that bears someone’s name is fine. But, these things must be done with the reminder that, “This is named after ‘x,’ a person greatly used by God for a purpose.” Even if that purpose is dying young so that others might be moved to fight a certain cause, something God can certainly use for His glory.
Cain was already out from the presence of the Lord, though, as explained earlier. He had no use for God in his life. He wouldn’t consider God’s role in his city.
Gen. 4:16
Cain “went out from the presence of the Lord.” God is, was, and always has been present everywhere. The Temple contained the Holy of Holies, the tabernacle did so before that. Yet, David wrote in Psalm 139 that God would be anywhere, no matter where he went.
This, then, is speaking of a couple things. It speaks of the will of God; God’s will was that Cain remain in a relationship with Him, where He had ordered things, so Cain would be protected. But, it also speaks of Cain’s heart. He’d hardened his heart so much, that he totally shut himself off from contact with God. He’d totally gone his own, rebellious way.
He didn’t have to do this, of course. As noted before, he could have repented, and accepted God’s role as Sovereign in his life. However, his mind was evil. He’d gone so far downhill, in such a short time, that he would not accept any of God’s commands. Indeed, he scoffed at the idea. He felt he could create a much better world on his own. It’s the same way the devil had tried to overthrow God; he thought he could better than God’s perfect goodness, so he sought to be as God. (Is. 14:12-14, Eze. 28:12-19)
So, Cain settled in the land of Nod. It was in the East. The whole world would fall into a pattern of man-centered religions, with many false gods. However, the East has become much better known for such religions.
Such religions are really about people. How can one better oneself on one’s own, without God’s help. That’s what Cain’s line became, for the most part – though the Bible never says there were no exceptions. However, for the most part, they were people who were focused on self.
This, then, is speaking of a couple things. It speaks of the will of God; God’s will was that Cain remain in a relationship with Him, where He had ordered things, so Cain would be protected. But, it also speaks of Cain’s heart. He’d hardened his heart so much, that he totally shut himself off from contact with God. He’d totally gone his own, rebellious way.
He didn’t have to do this, of course. As noted before, he could have repented, and accepted God’s role as Sovereign in his life. However, his mind was evil. He’d gone so far downhill, in such a short time, that he would not accept any of God’s commands. Indeed, he scoffed at the idea. He felt he could create a much better world on his own. It’s the same way the devil had tried to overthrow God; he thought he could better than God’s perfect goodness, so he sought to be as God. (Is. 14:12-14, Eze. 28:12-19)
So, Cain settled in the land of Nod. It was in the East. The whole world would fall into a pattern of man-centered religions, with many false gods. However, the East has become much better known for such religions.
Such religions are really about people. How can one better oneself on one’s own, without God’s help. That’s what Cain’s line became, for the most part – though the Bible never says there were no exceptions. However, for the most part, they were people who were focused on self.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Gen. 4:15
Since it breaks God’s heart so much to see His lost sheep run from Him, He showed His grace once more.
Cain had realized that - as a fugitive and vagabond - he would likely be hunted down and killed. So, God promises to protect Cain. We’re not told how God made the announcement - that anyone who killed Cain would be avenged seven times - to everyone else who was alive. It is possible that He spoke the warning so all the world heard. However, the method isn’t important. What’s important is that this proved God was trying to protect Cain, even in Cain’s unbelief.
He wants Cain to see His incredible mercy, so Cain will turn from his own ways of worship and worship God, and receive His forgiveness through true repentance. He is calling out, “Cain, I am having mercy on you. Don’t you understand this mercy can’t come from man’s ways? Return to Me, just as I pled with you earlier.”
Indeed, even today, it’s amazing how much grace and mercy God has. Not everyone gets a lot of chances, of course. However, despite all the evil that has spread over the entire world, there is still enough goodness, enough protection, that even those who turn from God can see His love if they look for it with a heart of faith. Even the greatest daredevil who lives only for self can find himself or herself spared. Of course, they won’t always find that. God’s mercy only goes so long. And, when the restrainer is removed in the Rapture (2 Thess. 2:7), many may find God’s divine protection suddenly gone for those who don’t trust in Him.
God also puts a mark on Cain. Some have speculated this mark may have been leprosy. That is very plausible. Any kind of mark would need to tell others to stay away from him. It would also match the way leprosy is used to signify uncleanness later. The only question is, would others catch it, also? After all, Cain went out and built his own community. Diseases change over time, though, so that isn’t a huge deal. One alternative is that Cain simply became disfigured somehow, so everyone would recognize him, and have the choice to follow him or God. That would make it more analogous to the Mark of the Beast in Revelation, whose bearers swear loyalty to forces opposing God and are condemned. Either way, it showed that Cain had made his choice. God will offer mercy and grace, but will never compromise His holiness. It is through it that we see His awesome mercy, in that He loves us so much, He offers to make us new when we turn to Him by faith. He wants us to come to Him for cleansing from sin by our own free will.
Cain had realized that - as a fugitive and vagabond - he would likely be hunted down and killed. So, God promises to protect Cain. We’re not told how God made the announcement - that anyone who killed Cain would be avenged seven times - to everyone else who was alive. It is possible that He spoke the warning so all the world heard. However, the method isn’t important. What’s important is that this proved God was trying to protect Cain, even in Cain’s unbelief.
He wants Cain to see His incredible mercy, so Cain will turn from his own ways of worship and worship God, and receive His forgiveness through true repentance. He is calling out, “Cain, I am having mercy on you. Don’t you understand this mercy can’t come from man’s ways? Return to Me, just as I pled with you earlier.”
Indeed, even today, it’s amazing how much grace and mercy God has. Not everyone gets a lot of chances, of course. However, despite all the evil that has spread over the entire world, there is still enough goodness, enough protection, that even those who turn from God can see His love if they look for it with a heart of faith. Even the greatest daredevil who lives only for self can find himself or herself spared. Of course, they won’t always find that. God’s mercy only goes so long. And, when the restrainer is removed in the Rapture (2 Thess. 2:7), many may find God’s divine protection suddenly gone for those who don’t trust in Him.
God also puts a mark on Cain. Some have speculated this mark may have been leprosy. That is very plausible. Any kind of mark would need to tell others to stay away from him. It would also match the way leprosy is used to signify uncleanness later. The only question is, would others catch it, also? After all, Cain went out and built his own community. Diseases change over time, though, so that isn’t a huge deal. One alternative is that Cain simply became disfigured somehow, so everyone would recognize him, and have the choice to follow him or God. That would make it more analogous to the Mark of the Beast in Revelation, whose bearers swear loyalty to forces opposing God and are condemned. Either way, it showed that Cain had made his choice. God will offer mercy and grace, but will never compromise His holiness. It is through it that we see His awesome mercy, in that He loves us so much, He offers to make us new when we turn to Him by faith. He wants us to come to Him for cleansing from sin by our own free will.
Gen. 4:14
One wonders, also, why Cain says what he does in this verse. Because, after mentioning that he would be driven “from the face of the Earth,” he states that he would be hidden from God’s face. Without knowing exactly what was on Cain’s mind, it appears that he wasn’t ready to receive forgiveness. In Psalm 51:11, David pleads for God not to hide His face from him, but to forgive him instead.
It’s possible, of course, that Cain doesn’t feel he can be forgiven. But, if that was the case, God surely would have approached it differently. Peter, for example, wept bitterly after denying the Lord. (Mat. 26:75) The Lord made special mention, however, after rising from the dead, that Peter should be told. He says “Go, tell My disciples, and Peter,” as if perhaps Peter wonders if he is fit to be a disciple anymore. (Mark 16:7) Mark had made a major mistake leaving the mission field once in Acts, and yet later, Paul wishes him to be brought, because Paul knows he will be of great help in the ministry. (2 Tim. 4:11) The Bible is filled with people who have had second chances, and made the most of them.
The most likely possibility is that Cain knew that God was not planning to accept his ways. And, that if that was the case, he knew God would hide his face from him. This, sadly, happens as well in Scripture, such as with King Saul. After the Holy Spirit leaves King Saul, he makes no effort to get right with God. He cares only about the kingdom that has been removed from him. In the same way, consumed with jealousy, Cain chose to destroy the one the Lord favored. Even thought turning back to God in repentance could at least restore his eternal soul.
It’s no wonder the Lord Jesus Christ makes such a major point, thousands of years later, when He tells the people to consider what it can profit a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose his immortal soul. There is no profit at all. And, it breaks God’s heart when someone won’t repent and turn to Him.
It’s possible, of course, that Cain doesn’t feel he can be forgiven. But, if that was the case, God surely would have approached it differently. Peter, for example, wept bitterly after denying the Lord. (Mat. 26:75) The Lord made special mention, however, after rising from the dead, that Peter should be told. He says “Go, tell My disciples, and Peter,” as if perhaps Peter wonders if he is fit to be a disciple anymore. (Mark 16:7) Mark had made a major mistake leaving the mission field once in Acts, and yet later, Paul wishes him to be brought, because Paul knows he will be of great help in the ministry. (2 Tim. 4:11) The Bible is filled with people who have had second chances, and made the most of them.
The most likely possibility is that Cain knew that God was not planning to accept his ways. And, that if that was the case, he knew God would hide his face from him. This, sadly, happens as well in Scripture, such as with King Saul. After the Holy Spirit leaves King Saul, he makes no effort to get right with God. He cares only about the kingdom that has been removed from him. In the same way, consumed with jealousy, Cain chose to destroy the one the Lord favored. Even thought turning back to God in repentance could at least restore his eternal soul.
It’s no wonder the Lord Jesus Christ makes such a major point, thousands of years later, when He tells the people to consider what it can profit a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose his immortal soul. There is no profit at all. And, it breaks God’s heart when someone won’t repent and turn to Him.
Gen. 4:13
Cain doesn’t look for mercy from God. When David sinned with Bathsheba, and went so far as to have her husband Urriah killed, he was truly repentent. Psalm 51 tells David’s deep, heartfelt confession of sin and remorse. David agreed that he’d sinned against God. He pleaded with the Lord not to depart from him, and begged to be purged and cleansed. David promised to teach transgressors the way of the Lord.
Cain lacked the broken and contrite heart David mentions having in Psalm 51:17, though. Instead, he complains about the punishment. Whereas David humbly accepted the death of that child he had with Bathsheba, and the family problems later, as a just punishment, Cain tells the Lord that the punishment he would face was not going to work.
The most shocking part is that the part Cain complains most about - being a fugitive and vagabond - should have naturally occurred to him. This shows the lack of rationality not only in the murder, but the murderer’s thought patterns. One has to wonder just what Cain was thinking. Did he really have so much false pride that he thought others would naturally agree with what he’d done? Did he think nobody would care? Of course, he would be hunted down. He was the brother of the others who were born and/or would be born. But, he had also killed their brother.
This totally delusional thought process shows just how far mankind had fallen in just a few short years. They had gone from a perfect world, where they knew no sin, to these uncaring, despicable depths. Sin had truly spread throughout the entire world. The moral depravity would grow worse, sadly, till the mind of man was on evil continually. (Gen. 6:5)
Cain lacked the broken and contrite heart David mentions having in Psalm 51:17, though. Instead, he complains about the punishment. Whereas David humbly accepted the death of that child he had with Bathsheba, and the family problems later, as a just punishment, Cain tells the Lord that the punishment he would face was not going to work.
The most shocking part is that the part Cain complains most about - being a fugitive and vagabond - should have naturally occurred to him. This shows the lack of rationality not only in the murder, but the murderer’s thought patterns. One has to wonder just what Cain was thinking. Did he really have so much false pride that he thought others would naturally agree with what he’d done? Did he think nobody would care? Of course, he would be hunted down. He was the brother of the others who were born and/or would be born. But, he had also killed their brother.
This totally delusional thought process shows just how far mankind had fallen in just a few short years. They had gone from a perfect world, where they knew no sin, to these uncaring, despicable depths. Sin had truly spread throughout the entire world. The moral depravity would grow worse, sadly, till the mind of man was on evil continually. (Gen. 6:5)
Gen. 4:12
Adam toiled in sweat, as we read in Genesis 3, but he still ate of the field. However, God said Cain wouldn’t receive food grown to the extent Adam did. This is important for two reasons.
First, God punished Cain by removing his livelihood. It’s a logical consequence that often comes today, too, though not everyone receives the same, because God’s mercy reaches everyone. Justice sometimes isn’t served till eternity, either, because this world isn’t perfect. God gives people freedom so they won’t be mindless robots.
More importantly, people need food to survive. Cain would have to rely on someone else. Cain’s problem was that he relied on his own means to reach God. Now, Cain would need to learn to rely on others just to survive. The end result was that he would hopefully learn to rely on God. The Lord hoped that this would teach him a need to rely on the Lord for everything.
God also shows that He knows what this will mean. First, Cain would be a fugitive. This is further evidence that there were others on the Earth at this time, as it is doubtful He only refers to his parents; though they clearly suffered greatly, too. One son was a murderer, and another son had been killed! Everyone would learn what had happened to their brother Abel. And, they would hate Cain for it. He might find someone willing to care, but in general, he would fear reprisal. Therefore, he would be a vagabond, wandering from place to place.
These, too, were supposed to teach Cain to rely on the Lord. Adam and Eve had the entire Earth all to themselves at first, so they saw how insignificant they were, and how much they needed to rely on God. Now, Cain found himself in a similar situation. He would have to fend for himself, and he would hopefully turn to God for help. Sadly, there is no evidence Cain ever turned to the Lord.
First, God punished Cain by removing his livelihood. It’s a logical consequence that often comes today, too, though not everyone receives the same, because God’s mercy reaches everyone. Justice sometimes isn’t served till eternity, either, because this world isn’t perfect. God gives people freedom so they won’t be mindless robots.
More importantly, people need food to survive. Cain would have to rely on someone else. Cain’s problem was that he relied on his own means to reach God. Now, Cain would need to learn to rely on others just to survive. The end result was that he would hopefully learn to rely on God. The Lord hoped that this would teach him a need to rely on the Lord for everything.
God also shows that He knows what this will mean. First, Cain would be a fugitive. This is further evidence that there were others on the Earth at this time, as it is doubtful He only refers to his parents; though they clearly suffered greatly, too. One son was a murderer, and another son had been killed! Everyone would learn what had happened to their brother Abel. And, they would hate Cain for it. He might find someone willing to care, but in general, he would fear reprisal. Therefore, he would be a vagabond, wandering from place to place.
These, too, were supposed to teach Cain to rely on the Lord. Adam and Eve had the entire Earth all to themselves at first, so they saw how insignificant they were, and how much they needed to rely on God. Now, Cain found himself in a similar situation. He would have to fend for himself, and he would hopefully turn to God for help. Sadly, there is no evidence Cain ever turned to the Lord.
Gen. 4:11
The Lord continues with His marvelously picturesque language here. His ability to turn a phrase, to describe things in such a meaningful way, is incredible. He made language, and knows all the possible ways to use it. This is just one of those things that people can’t begin to grasp. The human authors God used were often very bright themselves - though not always. People were shocked at the mighty, powerful words which simple fishermen like Peter and John used in Acts, for instance. God can speak through anyone with words that move, if they totally trust Him to, for the word of God is powerful, sharper than any twoedged sword. (Heb. 4:12)
He uses such language here, when He says Cain is “cursed from the Earth.” The Earth had already been cursed, when sin entered into it. Death had come by that sin, as well. The curse of evil and suffering was so complete, that all of Creation groaned in agony. (Rom. 8:22) It continues to do so, and will till evil is purged from this world.
So, the Earth was quite separate from the perfection with which God made it. And yet, Cain was to be cursed from even that!
A picture of grace can be missed if we’re not careful, though. The Earth is said to have received the blood of Abel. When one receives Christ’s redemptive work by simple faith, that person believes that the perfect blood of Jesus Christ can wash away their past, present, and future sin. The Earth had ‘received” the blood of Abel, in the same way that we would one day be freed from the curse of sin by the blood that Christ shed on the cross.
Of course, nobody can get saved for us. We must each receive Christ on our own, once we reach the age of accountability. Even before, it is only Christ’s finished work on the cross which allows one to get to Heaven. Remember, He doesn’t want anyone to be able to boast of anything to get there. That includes being old enough.
Instead, God is saying that Abel is a type of Christ. His life featured something that would later be done by Jesus Christ Himself. Abel wasn’t killed because he did something wrong. He was killed for following the Lord. Abel’s death didn’t remove the curse from the earth. However, it was one of many little pieces of the puzzle that the disciples finally understood, after Jesus Christ had been raised from the dead.
Cain was cursed from the Earth. Those who reject Christ can’t be part of Him. They are separated because they have not allowed the blood of Jesus Christ to wash away their sins. However, those who crucified Jesus were offered a second chance, such as on the Day of Pentecost. (Acts 2) Cain could still have been forgiven, too, if he’d simply repented. Sadly, there’s no record that he ever did. He appears to have simply gone further away from God’s perfect love.
He uses such language here, when He says Cain is “cursed from the Earth.” The Earth had already been cursed, when sin entered into it. Death had come by that sin, as well. The curse of evil and suffering was so complete, that all of Creation groaned in agony. (Rom. 8:22) It continues to do so, and will till evil is purged from this world.
So, the Earth was quite separate from the perfection with which God made it. And yet, Cain was to be cursed from even that!
A picture of grace can be missed if we’re not careful, though. The Earth is said to have received the blood of Abel. When one receives Christ’s redemptive work by simple faith, that person believes that the perfect blood of Jesus Christ can wash away their past, present, and future sin. The Earth had ‘received” the blood of Abel, in the same way that we would one day be freed from the curse of sin by the blood that Christ shed on the cross.
Of course, nobody can get saved for us. We must each receive Christ on our own, once we reach the age of accountability. Even before, it is only Christ’s finished work on the cross which allows one to get to Heaven. Remember, He doesn’t want anyone to be able to boast of anything to get there. That includes being old enough.
Instead, God is saying that Abel is a type of Christ. His life featured something that would later be done by Jesus Christ Himself. Abel wasn’t killed because he did something wrong. He was killed for following the Lord. Abel’s death didn’t remove the curse from the earth. However, it was one of many little pieces of the puzzle that the disciples finally understood, after Jesus Christ had been raised from the dead.
Cain was cursed from the Earth. Those who reject Christ can’t be part of Him. They are separated because they have not allowed the blood of Jesus Christ to wash away their sins. However, those who crucified Jesus were offered a second chance, such as on the Day of Pentecost. (Acts 2) Cain could still have been forgiven, too, if he’d simply repented. Sadly, there’s no record that he ever did. He appears to have simply gone further away from God’s perfect love.
Gen. 4:10
God knows that Cain understands the proper relationship between brothers. So, He ignores the question in the previous verse. He asks “What hast thou done?” He knows what Cain did. But, the notion of taking another human’s life was such an awful thing, God wanted Cain to realize that this was something far worse, as far as consequences, than most sins. While all sin keeps us away from God, the notion of taking another human’s life is much more heinous than most, because this is a person who is in the very image of God.
This is why God speaks of “the voice of Abel’s blood” crying out from the ground. The same picturesque language is used in Revelation 6:9-10, to show the cries of many martyrs, who have suffered terribly throughout history.
People all the way back to Abel have suffered for the testimony of God’s grace and mercy. Countless numbers of people have suffered at the hands of those who would rather get to Heaven by their own good works, when in fact nobody can work their way to Heaven. It is “not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Eph. 2:9) God demands an even playing field, for our benefit. He doesn’t want it to be any harder for one person than for another to receive His gift of salvation. It is free to all who receive. It may take a long time. But, God will repay all who have suffered for their faith in him, through His perfect judgment.
This is why God speaks of “the voice of Abel’s blood” crying out from the ground. The same picturesque language is used in Revelation 6:9-10, to show the cries of many martyrs, who have suffered terribly throughout history.
People all the way back to Abel have suffered for the testimony of God’s grace and mercy. Countless numbers of people have suffered at the hands of those who would rather get to Heaven by their own good works, when in fact nobody can work their way to Heaven. It is “not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Eph. 2:9) God demands an even playing field, for our benefit. He doesn’t want it to be any harder for one person than for another to receive His gift of salvation. It is free to all who receive. It may take a long time. But, God will repay all who have suffered for their faith in him, through His perfect judgment.
Gen. 4:9
Since they didn’t have the Word of God written yet, God chose to speak to people in these times with an audible voice. He speaks to Cain the same way He spoke to Adam and Eve. However, Cain was out inthe open. He wasn’t hiding from God, because he was apparently not ashamed of his sin, in the way Adam and Eve were. He had grown accustomed to sin.
This shows part of the horrible growth of sin, in such a short amount of time. Cain’s actions, to me, are unimaginable. Perhaps it is my being saved. Perhaps it is God’s grace in giving me a nature that was so kind and loving, even before I realized I was a sinner in need of the Savior. But, I could never imagine even thinking of such a horrible thing. Oh, I have a sin nature, like we all do. That nature shows in different ways in different people. It’s just like an athletic person may show that by being skilled in a team sport (like baseball) or an individual one (like swimming). Two people may even have very different skill sets within the same sport.
However, sin had grown so fast since the Fall, that not only did the worst parts of Cain’s nature come out, he didn’t seem to care!
We see that in this verse. God asks where Abel is. He adds the words “thy brother” onto it. This speaks to Cain’s heart even more than just asking, “Where is Abel?” The words should remind Cain that this was his brother. God emphasized that this was someone Cain was supposed to have a great family love for, the kind of love where you care for them no matter what.
Cain answers God’s loving attempt to get him to confess in a different way from Adam and Eve. His parents had each started blaming someone else. They felt shame enough to try to hide. Cain, on the other hand, had nobody to blame but himself. So, he said “I know not.” This, alone, was a bold-faced lie, but what he adds makes it worse. Cain asks, “Am I my brother’s keeper?”
Innocent, literal questions do come, of course, when someone has little or no understanding. We must lovingly answer them with calmness and compassion, and never react harshly. That is how God teaches us. We are to go to Him for wisdom, and he will give liberally and never complain. (James 1:5) He never expects us to know things we can’t possibly know. Of course, sometimes, the answer is to step out in faith. Mary, for instance, didn’t know how she - a virgin - was going to give birth. But, she knew to have faith, and asked one of those innocent questions. God gave her the information she needed, and she responded with faith, just as we should. (Luke 1:26-38) There are numerous other examples throughout Scripture.
However, Cain was not like that. He knew what a brother was, and how to treat him. Cain knew he was supposed to love his brother as an equal. A “keeper” was someone who tended lesser animals, just as Abel kept sheep. On the one hand, this could be a sarcastic comment. It may have been meant to degrade his brother. Or, it could have been outright evasion by trying to throw God off the path. Either way, it shows just how extreme a problem sin had become.
This shows part of the horrible growth of sin, in such a short amount of time. Cain’s actions, to me, are unimaginable. Perhaps it is my being saved. Perhaps it is God’s grace in giving me a nature that was so kind and loving, even before I realized I was a sinner in need of the Savior. But, I could never imagine even thinking of such a horrible thing. Oh, I have a sin nature, like we all do. That nature shows in different ways in different people. It’s just like an athletic person may show that by being skilled in a team sport (like baseball) or an individual one (like swimming). Two people may even have very different skill sets within the same sport.
However, sin had grown so fast since the Fall, that not only did the worst parts of Cain’s nature come out, he didn’t seem to care!
We see that in this verse. God asks where Abel is. He adds the words “thy brother” onto it. This speaks to Cain’s heart even more than just asking, “Where is Abel?” The words should remind Cain that this was his brother. God emphasized that this was someone Cain was supposed to have a great family love for, the kind of love where you care for them no matter what.
Cain answers God’s loving attempt to get him to confess in a different way from Adam and Eve. His parents had each started blaming someone else. They felt shame enough to try to hide. Cain, on the other hand, had nobody to blame but himself. So, he said “I know not.” This, alone, was a bold-faced lie, but what he adds makes it worse. Cain asks, “Am I my brother’s keeper?”
Innocent, literal questions do come, of course, when someone has little or no understanding. We must lovingly answer them with calmness and compassion, and never react harshly. That is how God teaches us. We are to go to Him for wisdom, and he will give liberally and never complain. (James 1:5) He never expects us to know things we can’t possibly know. Of course, sometimes, the answer is to step out in faith. Mary, for instance, didn’t know how she - a virgin - was going to give birth. But, she knew to have faith, and asked one of those innocent questions. God gave her the information she needed, and she responded with faith, just as we should. (Luke 1:26-38) There are numerous other examples throughout Scripture.
However, Cain was not like that. He knew what a brother was, and how to treat him. Cain knew he was supposed to love his brother as an equal. A “keeper” was someone who tended lesser animals, just as Abel kept sheep. On the one hand, this could be a sarcastic comment. It may have been meant to degrade his brother. Or, it could have been outright evasion by trying to throw God off the path. Either way, it shows just how extreme a problem sin had become.
Gen. 4:8
Cain talked with Abel after this meeting with God. The exact words weren’t deemed important enough to record. Cain’s reaction - killing his brother – is what’s important. Ultimately, Cain killed Abel because of Abel’s testimony of grace - Cain’s works were evil, while his brother’s were righteous. (1 John 3:12) There was also the sin of jealousy.
Covetousness - wanting what others have - is a typical human sin. It can spiral into envy, which can then turn into jealousy. (While they are sometimes used as synonyms, I see them as different. When one is envious, one wishes one had what others have. But, they don’t necessarily want those who do have more to suffer. Jealousy, to me, only happens when the person who doesn’t have something hates the one who does.)
That slippery slope was part of what led to the first murder. Some time passed - again, we don’t know how much. Cain allowed his anger to grow. This is why it’s so important that we never let the sun go down on our wrath. (Eph. 4:26) We, as humans, are going to be angry. But, we must never let anger cause us to sin. We must solve problems in a Godly manner. Cain’s killing of Abel may have come in a moment of passion. Or, it may have been premeditated. Whether or not he planned it out, though, he committed a horrible sin. God knew exactly what would happen if Cain didn’t turn to Him for cleansing from sin, instead of relying on his own works.
Covetousness - wanting what others have - is a typical human sin. It can spiral into envy, which can then turn into jealousy. (While they are sometimes used as synonyms, I see them as different. When one is envious, one wishes one had what others have. But, they don’t necessarily want those who do have more to suffer. Jealousy, to me, only happens when the person who doesn’t have something hates the one who does.)
That slippery slope was part of what led to the first murder. Some time passed - again, we don’t know how much. Cain allowed his anger to grow. This is why it’s so important that we never let the sun go down on our wrath. (Eph. 4:26) We, as humans, are going to be angry. But, we must never let anger cause us to sin. We must solve problems in a Godly manner. Cain’s killing of Abel may have come in a moment of passion. Or, it may have been premeditated. Whether or not he planned it out, though, he committed a horrible sin. God knew exactly what would happen if Cain didn’t turn to Him for cleansing from sin, instead of relying on his own works.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Gen. 4:7
God tries to help Cain in several ways.
First, He says, "If thou doest well." In other words, He takes away any chance of CXain thinking of it as "Abel versus me." God points to the absolute right and wrong which has existed fromt he foudnation of the world. "Doing well" means to do that which is right.
When God established the proper sacrifice by shedding blood to cover sin, that became the accepted way. Since animals rely on instinct, sacrificing them was different than killing people. People have dominion over animals by virtue of being living, breathing souls. Yes, animals have some instinctive reactions that can be considered to be like feelings. But, they are not nearly as highly developed, and should never be confused with human feelings. The sacrifice is not killed because it has done something wrong. But, this just makes the analogy of Jesus as the Lam of God all the greater He never sinned. And yet, Christ died for the sins of all manking, past, present, and future.
It was right, therefore, for Cain to make a sacrifice like Abel's. It would have been very easy for him to find a sheep and start raising it, or to ask Abel for one. God doesn't expect us to do more than we can with His help. Finding an animal to sacrifice was no huge burden for Cain. Then, he'd have been accepted.
This is the next part of God's plea to Cain. If he does well, he will be accepted. God phrases it so that Cain has to realize that, yes, he will be accepted. People have looked for acceptance since the beginning of time. It's why church doors must always be open, to anyone off the street who wants to be changed within by God's amazing grace. To shut the doors to anyone is a horrible sin. God is holy, but He has also told us to go into all the world and preacht he Gospel to every creature. (Mat. 28:18) He wants everyone to come to Him. The story is told of a man who went to church to steal coats. He was convinced to come in and listen, and he was convicted of his sin. he got saved, and became a wonderful member of the church, serving in numerous areas for many years! It is not we who win souls, it's God.
However, it is never by just being there physically that God accepts us. That man would not have been accepted of God by stealing coats. He was accepted of God by coming to Him with humility, accepting he was a wretched sinner in need of the Savior. God wants Cain to realize the same thing. Yes, he begins with talk of doing well, but remember the context. Doing well, in this case, means the very same thing - recognizing his need for forgiveness, and that God Himself has provided the sacrifice. He called for Cain to come to repentence. he was not asking Cain to do a work, as salvation is never by works, always by faith.
The Hebrew words note the 'excellency" of that acceptance. This goes back to what was said about the prominence of the firstborn male in Hebrew culture. Cain was the firstborn of Adam and Eve's children. The honor of having the line of the Redeemer go through him might have been Cain's if he'd followed God's ways, though we don't know for sure.
Next, God reminds Cain what will happen if he doesn't turn to God for the remission of sin. If he doesn't follow God's way, sin "lieth at the door."
Of course, there had been sins before this - that's why sacrifices were needed. However, this notion of it "lying at the door" means some greater sin (with regard to consequences) than ones he'd committed before this.
Cain had been born with a sin nature. he inherited that from Adam. We all inherit that sin nature. The Adamic nature is what Christ must lovingly guide us away from once we are saved. When we follow that old, Adamic nature, however, we fall into our old, sinful habits. When we keep up in those habits, they become worse and worse, and we lose sight of how Jesus made us new creatures. (2 Cor. 5:17) We are still saved, but it becomes harder and harder for us to hear His Holy Spirit calling us.
That was Cain's problem. The Holy Spiri couldn't indwell people till Christ's blood was shed when He died on Calvary. That's when the veil was torn in two, and the glory of God went from the Holy of Holies in the temple, and spread over all the Earth. (Mat. 27:51) But, it was still possible for God to reach people.
However, Cain faced the very seirous danger of getting so far from God's perfect love, he could have trouble finding his way back.
God explains this with His next statement. He says that "unto thee shall be his desire." Sin, here, is personified. It's given a human attribute - desire - so God can explain the problem more clearly. That thirst for sin - separation from God's perfect love and compassion - would grow, as Cain's desire to sin grew. The possible pain and suffering caused by this sin would grow. It would spiral totally out of control
Finally, God tells Cain what should happen instead. He tells Cain that he should be the one to rule over sin, instead of sin ruling over him.
Charistians are warned of the same thing. The devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. (1 Peter 5:8) We are warned many times about the dangers of sin, and that we should put those sinful puarts away. Meanwhile, we can focus on many positive things, such as those in Philippians 4:8.
We can't do it alone, of course. We need Christ's redemption, and we need His Spirit to guide us. Cain couldn't do it on his own, either. He needed God's help, too.
The fact God's appeal to Cain doesn't work is sad. However, it is still the right model to follow. Not everything modeled in Scripture is a good example to follow. Some really bad people have lived. But, God's way is always the one to follow, becuase He is perfect goodness.
Beside, not every outreach will be successful at that moment. But, some will bear fruit years later, that would only have worked with the outreach at the time. As an example, a woman a few years back prayed for her husband to be saved for 44 years! He was saved not just by her prayer, but surely by her attitude all those years.
First, He says, "If thou doest well." In other words, He takes away any chance of CXain thinking of it as "Abel versus me." God points to the absolute right and wrong which has existed fromt he foudnation of the world. "Doing well" means to do that which is right.
When God established the proper sacrifice by shedding blood to cover sin, that became the accepted way. Since animals rely on instinct, sacrificing them was different than killing people. People have dominion over animals by virtue of being living, breathing souls. Yes, animals have some instinctive reactions that can be considered to be like feelings. But, they are not nearly as highly developed, and should never be confused with human feelings. The sacrifice is not killed because it has done something wrong. But, this just makes the analogy of Jesus as the Lam of God all the greater He never sinned. And yet, Christ died for the sins of all manking, past, present, and future.
It was right, therefore, for Cain to make a sacrifice like Abel's. It would have been very easy for him to find a sheep and start raising it, or to ask Abel for one. God doesn't expect us to do more than we can with His help. Finding an animal to sacrifice was no huge burden for Cain. Then, he'd have been accepted.
This is the next part of God's plea to Cain. If he does well, he will be accepted. God phrases it so that Cain has to realize that, yes, he will be accepted. People have looked for acceptance since the beginning of time. It's why church doors must always be open, to anyone off the street who wants to be changed within by God's amazing grace. To shut the doors to anyone is a horrible sin. God is holy, but He has also told us to go into all the world and preacht he Gospel to every creature. (Mat. 28:18) He wants everyone to come to Him. The story is told of a man who went to church to steal coats. He was convinced to come in and listen, and he was convicted of his sin. he got saved, and became a wonderful member of the church, serving in numerous areas for many years! It is not we who win souls, it's God.
However, it is never by just being there physically that God accepts us. That man would not have been accepted of God by stealing coats. He was accepted of God by coming to Him with humility, accepting he was a wretched sinner in need of the Savior. God wants Cain to realize the same thing. Yes, he begins with talk of doing well, but remember the context. Doing well, in this case, means the very same thing - recognizing his need for forgiveness, and that God Himself has provided the sacrifice. He called for Cain to come to repentence. he was not asking Cain to do a work, as salvation is never by works, always by faith.
The Hebrew words note the 'excellency" of that acceptance. This goes back to what was said about the prominence of the firstborn male in Hebrew culture. Cain was the firstborn of Adam and Eve's children. The honor of having the line of the Redeemer go through him might have been Cain's if he'd followed God's ways, though we don't know for sure.
Next, God reminds Cain what will happen if he doesn't turn to God for the remission of sin. If he doesn't follow God's way, sin "lieth at the door."
Of course, there had been sins before this - that's why sacrifices were needed. However, this notion of it "lying at the door" means some greater sin (with regard to consequences) than ones he'd committed before this.
Cain had been born with a sin nature. he inherited that from Adam. We all inherit that sin nature. The Adamic nature is what Christ must lovingly guide us away from once we are saved. When we follow that old, Adamic nature, however, we fall into our old, sinful habits. When we keep up in those habits, they become worse and worse, and we lose sight of how Jesus made us new creatures. (2 Cor. 5:17) We are still saved, but it becomes harder and harder for us to hear His Holy Spirit calling us.
That was Cain's problem. The Holy Spiri couldn't indwell people till Christ's blood was shed when He died on Calvary. That's when the veil was torn in two, and the glory of God went from the Holy of Holies in the temple, and spread over all the Earth. (Mat. 27:51) But, it was still possible for God to reach people.
However, Cain faced the very seirous danger of getting so far from God's perfect love, he could have trouble finding his way back.
God explains this with His next statement. He says that "unto thee shall be his desire." Sin, here, is personified. It's given a human attribute - desire - so God can explain the problem more clearly. That thirst for sin - separation from God's perfect love and compassion - would grow, as Cain's desire to sin grew. The possible pain and suffering caused by this sin would grow. It would spiral totally out of control
Finally, God tells Cain what should happen instead. He tells Cain that he should be the one to rule over sin, instead of sin ruling over him.
Charistians are warned of the same thing. The devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. (1 Peter 5:8) We are warned many times about the dangers of sin, and that we should put those sinful puarts away. Meanwhile, we can focus on many positive things, such as those in Philippians 4:8.
We can't do it alone, of course. We need Christ's redemption, and we need His Spirit to guide us. Cain couldn't do it on his own, either. He needed God's help, too.
The fact God's appeal to Cain doesn't work is sad. However, it is still the right model to follow. Not everything modeled in Scripture is a good example to follow. Some really bad people have lived. But, God's way is always the one to follow, becuase He is perfect goodness.
Beside, not every outreach will be successful at that moment. But, some will bear fruit years later, that would only have worked with the outreach at the time. As an example, a woman a few years back prayed for her husband to be saved for 44 years! He was saved not just by her prayer, but surely by her attitude all those years.
Gen. 4:6
God's love of missions is shown here, just as it is everywhere. He wants people to worship Him, not to turn away. He is just, but that justice is mingled with grace and mercy. That is the only way any of us can be effective in winning others to Christ and having them truly born again. We must tell them both of Christ's mercy and forgiveness and of His holiness, unable to look upon sin. He is willing that none perish, but that all come to repentence. (2 Peter 3:9) But, He is also just, and Christ died for our sins (1 Cor. 15:3), becuase our sin is so bad to a Holy God that He required perfect blood for the remission of sin. Christ was punished in our place, and we can only be healed by His having suffered for us. (1 Pet. 2:24)
God wants people to love Him, and to see His goodness and mercy. That's why He spoke to Cain. We noted that His slaying of the lamb near the end of Genesis 3 was likely a Theophany. He could easily have just spoken in an audible voice, but that is uncertain. He could have been a Theophany only there and here, but not later, too.
What's important is that He gives Cain a chance. He awants Cain to explain, so He can help Cain avoid sin. Christ is always waiting for us to talk to Him, and seek His help. We fail miserably all too often, because we don't see any way out, we get scared, or something else. But, his mercies endure forever, and He is always wiling to hear us.
One other thing is worthy of note about this. God wants us to be happy and joyful. This is so clear elsewhere, such as in Philippians. The words "rejoice" and "joy" show up a lot there. God wants us to find joy in Him even in our struggles. That's where we often draw closest to Him. God wanted Cain to serve Him, but also wanted him to be joyful about it. He wanted CAin to accept this as a learning experience and avoid sinning any more.
One may ask why this is different than how He approached Adam and Eve. Remember that they had just brought sin into the world. it was perfect before then. the incredible change int he world meant God had to confront the problem right away.
Here, on the other hand, Cain and Abel had merely continued what had already been going on - sins such as lying, coveting, and son on, were growing. A plan of sacrifice for those sins had been put in place, to cover them until the Redeemer came to wash them away completely.
"But wait," one might say, "aren't all sins equally bad?" We must remember that the way God sees sin, and the way He deals with the consequences of individual ones, are two different things
All sin causes us to fall short of God's perfect glory. God can't touch any sin. if He had come the first time in all His glory, this sinful world would have perished. This is why, in Isaiah 6. the prophet feels he is "undone" - literally a dead man, cut off - after seeing God, in all His splendor, in His Heavenly temple. No person can see God, and live.
However, all sin does not carry the same consequences on Earth. The Mosaic law shows this - stealing is not met with the same punishment as murder, and so on. Common practice shows this - lying about one's age doesn't carry the same weight as cheating on one's taxes. Small sins can begin a slippery slope that lead to bigger sins, as Davis learned with Bathsheeba, when he lusted after her in 2 Samuel 11. However, God wants us to confess and forsake those small sins, so they don't become bigger ones later.
So it was that God lovingly approached Cain, so he could be won back to God, before his sin grew and made things worse. God sought to help Cain out of; an attitude of going against God's perfect plan.
God wants people to love Him, and to see His goodness and mercy. That's why He spoke to Cain. We noted that His slaying of the lamb near the end of Genesis 3 was likely a Theophany. He could easily have just spoken in an audible voice, but that is uncertain. He could have been a Theophany only there and here, but not later, too.
What's important is that He gives Cain a chance. He awants Cain to explain, so He can help Cain avoid sin. Christ is always waiting for us to talk to Him, and seek His help. We fail miserably all too often, because we don't see any way out, we get scared, or something else. But, his mercies endure forever, and He is always wiling to hear us.
One other thing is worthy of note about this. God wants us to be happy and joyful. This is so clear elsewhere, such as in Philippians. The words "rejoice" and "joy" show up a lot there. God wants us to find joy in Him even in our struggles. That's where we often draw closest to Him. God wanted Cain to serve Him, but also wanted him to be joyful about it. He wanted CAin to accept this as a learning experience and avoid sinning any more.
One may ask why this is different than how He approached Adam and Eve. Remember that they had just brought sin into the world. it was perfect before then. the incredible change int he world meant God had to confront the problem right away.
Here, on the other hand, Cain and Abel had merely continued what had already been going on - sins such as lying, coveting, and son on, were growing. A plan of sacrifice for those sins had been put in place, to cover them until the Redeemer came to wash them away completely.
"But wait," one might say, "aren't all sins equally bad?" We must remember that the way God sees sin, and the way He deals with the consequences of individual ones, are two different things
All sin causes us to fall short of God's perfect glory. God can't touch any sin. if He had come the first time in all His glory, this sinful world would have perished. This is why, in Isaiah 6. the prophet feels he is "undone" - literally a dead man, cut off - after seeing God, in all His splendor, in His Heavenly temple. No person can see God, and live.
However, all sin does not carry the same consequences on Earth. The Mosaic law shows this - stealing is not met with the same punishment as murder, and so on. Common practice shows this - lying about one's age doesn't carry the same weight as cheating on one's taxes. Small sins can begin a slippery slope that lead to bigger sins, as Davis learned with Bathsheeba, when he lusted after her in 2 Samuel 11. However, God wants us to confess and forsake those small sins, so they don't become bigger ones later.
So it was that God lovingly approached Cain, so he could be won back to God, before his sin grew and made things worse. God sought to help Cain out of; an attitude of going against God's perfect plan.
Gen. 4:5
We know, then, it was not an accident that Abel's sacrifice was accepted and Cain's wasn't. Abel had learned what was acceptable to God, and why. Cain was upset and disappointed that his way was not accepted.
Cain tried a different path. God is no respecter of persons. (Acts 10:34) He will accept anyone. And, people have lots of freedom within the rules. The important part there, however, is that it must be within the rules.
Adam and Eve had only one thing they couldn't do in the Garden of Eden. they went against that, and brought sin into the world. they were insistent on doing things their own way. That way was sin, and God is so holy that He can't come in contact with sinin any way. That's why sacrifices were needed right away to cover sin, until Christ came as the Lamb of God.
Cain didn't do that. His sacrifice was another sign of people choosing their own way, instead of following God's way. There was nothing terribly hard about doing this God's way. It was going to be by faith, anyway. So, if Cain couldn't get a lamb, he could always borrow a lamb from his brother.
Cain insisted on doing it his way, however. Thus, the Bible says that God not only had no respect unto the sacrifice, but also no respect unto Cain himself. Cain was not yet justified.
We who have received Jesus Christ's forgiveness are all justified by faith. We have Christ's perfect righteousness placed on us. God is able to look on us in a way He can't look on sin because of His holiness. That's because when He sees us, He sees the Holy Spirit living in us. It is the earnest - the promise - of our salvation. The Spirit is the proof God will one day take us home to be with Him. He can't see sinners the same way. That redemption was future for Cain and Abel, but God was still able to see Abel's faith and look favorably on Abel, because Abel - in performing the sacrifice he did - was justified by faith.
Cain was really mad about this. He wanted things his own way. Also, he may also have felt some entitlement, being the firstborn, as is human naturem. His countenance fell. He was gravely discouraged at being rejected. Just as He had done with Adam and Eve, God goes in search of His lost sheep.
Cain tried a different path. God is no respecter of persons. (Acts 10:34) He will accept anyone. And, people have lots of freedom within the rules. The important part there, however, is that it must be within the rules.
Adam and Eve had only one thing they couldn't do in the Garden of Eden. they went against that, and brought sin into the world. they were insistent on doing things their own way. That way was sin, and God is so holy that He can't come in contact with sinin any way. That's why sacrifices were needed right away to cover sin, until Christ came as the Lamb of God.
Cain didn't do that. His sacrifice was another sign of people choosing their own way, instead of following God's way. There was nothing terribly hard about doing this God's way. It was going to be by faith, anyway. So, if Cain couldn't get a lamb, he could always borrow a lamb from his brother.
Cain insisted on doing it his way, however. Thus, the Bible says that God not only had no respect unto the sacrifice, but also no respect unto Cain himself. Cain was not yet justified.
We who have received Jesus Christ's forgiveness are all justified by faith. We have Christ's perfect righteousness placed on us. God is able to look on us in a way He can't look on sin because of His holiness. That's because when He sees us, He sees the Holy Spirit living in us. It is the earnest - the promise - of our salvation. The Spirit is the proof God will one day take us home to be with Him. He can't see sinners the same way. That redemption was future for Cain and Abel, but God was still able to see Abel's faith and look favorably on Abel, because Abel - in performing the sacrifice he did - was justified by faith.
Cain was really mad about this. He wanted things his own way. Also, he may also have felt some entitlement, being the firstborn, as is human naturem. His countenance fell. He was gravely discouraged at being rejected. Just as He had done with Adam and Eve, God goes in search of His lost sheep.
Gen. 4:4
At this time, the sacrifices were still needed to cover sin. This is why Abel brought of the firstlings of his flock, and of the fat thereof. The firstfruits of the flock isn't just the first numerically. The first, in Hebrew culture, always had the most important and prestigious spot.
This spot of greatest imoprtance and prestige is why Jesus Christ is called the "firstborn of every creature," (Col. 1;15) This verse says nothing about birth. Jesus Christ has always existed, and always will exist, becuase He is eternally God. There is just no better term in English to refer to that position in the family of utmost importance and prestige.
Similarly, Christ is referred to as the firstfruits of those that sleep - in other words, die - in 1 Cor. 15:20. This doesn't just mean He was first to rise, although He did open the gates of Heaven for those who had been in Abraham's bosom. he is the most important, the essential one, as the next verse says. Just as by one man - Adam - death entered the world, so by one man death was conquered forever!
What Abel brought, then, was called for as a picture of what would occur later, just as every other proper sacrifice would be. We see Abel doing what God had shown Adam, and what he had shown his children. This, then, is why God "had respect" toward Abel and his sacrifice; it was a "more excellent" one. (Heb. 11:4) It typified just what God would do for mankind.
It also showed that Abel was righteous, according to that same verse in Hebrews. Of course, there is none righteous; no, not one. (Rom. 3:10) But, Abel had been justified by faith - faith that God would one day bring that promised rRedeemer to redeem everyone. Salvation has always been by faith, becuase it was impossible to keep the whole law; if anyone keeps it all, yet offends in one piont, he is guilty, and therefore condemned. (James 2:10) Abel's righteousness came by his faith in what was then the future death, burial and resurection of our Lord for our sins. He just didn't know how it would happen.
Finally, Hebrews 11:4 mentions Abel's gifts. This refers to his gift of the firstfruits. God's Holy Word tells so many awesome things, that we can only scratch the surface of them.
This spot of greatest imoprtance and prestige is why Jesus Christ is called the "firstborn of every creature," (Col. 1;15) This verse says nothing about birth. Jesus Christ has always existed, and always will exist, becuase He is eternally God. There is just no better term in English to refer to that position in the family of utmost importance and prestige.
Similarly, Christ is referred to as the firstfruits of those that sleep - in other words, die - in 1 Cor. 15:20. This doesn't just mean He was first to rise, although He did open the gates of Heaven for those who had been in Abraham's bosom. he is the most important, the essential one, as the next verse says. Just as by one man - Adam - death entered the world, so by one man death was conquered forever!
What Abel brought, then, was called for as a picture of what would occur later, just as every other proper sacrifice would be. We see Abel doing what God had shown Adam, and what he had shown his children. This, then, is why God "had respect" toward Abel and his sacrifice; it was a "more excellent" one. (Heb. 11:4) It typified just what God would do for mankind.
It also showed that Abel was righteous, according to that same verse in Hebrews. Of course, there is none righteous; no, not one. (Rom. 3:10) But, Abel had been justified by faith - faith that God would one day bring that promised rRedeemer to redeem everyone. Salvation has always been by faith, becuase it was impossible to keep the whole law; if anyone keeps it all, yet offends in one piont, he is guilty, and therefore condemned. (James 2:10) Abel's righteousness came by his faith in what was then the future death, burial and resurection of our Lord for our sins. He just didn't know how it would happen.
Finally, Hebrews 11:4 mentions Abel's gifts. This refers to his gift of the firstfruits. God's Holy Word tells so many awesome things, that we can only scratch the surface of them.
Gen. 4:3
One thing that doesn't need speculation is that Cain and Abel had brothers and sisters. (Gen. 5:4) The "process of time" mentioned here easily allows others to have been born. Of course, we aren't told how time passes here, except that it was less than 130 years; the age of Adam when Seth was born. (Gen. 5:3) While we are told later that Seth replaced Abel in the bloodline, that doesn't mean he was born right after the others.
Ruth 4:17 and 4:22 are perfect illustrations of this. Jesse begat David - but David was the youngest of a whole brood of boys. it doesn't matter that the others were older. What matters is that God doesn't look at people like we do. "Man looketh on the outward appearance, but God looketh upon the heart." (1 Sam. 16:7) Who is to say that the murder of Abel didn't set sibling against sibling, with God choosing to appoint a child not yet born, who had not become part of the fighting? It is entirely possible. It's also possible they were younger, and Adam and Eve had to wait for the right one.
Getting back to the sure things of God's Word, we see that Cain brought an offering of grain. That, of course, could have been proper - but, notice that Numbers 18:12 says it shall be the firstfruits. Whether Cain brought the best is unclear.
We do know he brought an offering unto the Lord. One's offering should be the best, becuase He has give us his best; it is our reasonable service. (Rom. 12:2) Even if it was, however, it must be the right kind of an offering for a specific time, as that verse in Leviticus shows. Only blood can bring about the remission of sin.
Finally, moving away fromt he specific sacrifices made by Cain and Abel, we see that a system of sacrifices had already been put in place. We're not sure what it was. However, the important thing is that it showed the continued relationship between God and mankind. The first sacrifice - made by God Himself to make clothes for Adam and Eve - would be followed by many, many sacrifices, all of which could only cover sin. These were pictures of what Christ would do one day on the cross, when - as the Lamb of God - he was slain for the sins of all mankind. Even in the Millennial Kingdom, there will be sacrifices, but these will only be for a memorial, like the Lord's Supper is today. There is no more need for sacrifices now. The curse of sin is broken forever, thanks to Jesus Christ's death and resurrection! Hallelujah!
Ruth 4:17 and 4:22 are perfect illustrations of this. Jesse begat David - but David was the youngest of a whole brood of boys. it doesn't matter that the others were older. What matters is that God doesn't look at people like we do. "Man looketh on the outward appearance, but God looketh upon the heart." (1 Sam. 16:7) Who is to say that the murder of Abel didn't set sibling against sibling, with God choosing to appoint a child not yet born, who had not become part of the fighting? It is entirely possible. It's also possible they were younger, and Adam and Eve had to wait for the right one.
Getting back to the sure things of God's Word, we see that Cain brought an offering of grain. That, of course, could have been proper - but, notice that Numbers 18:12 says it shall be the firstfruits. Whether Cain brought the best is unclear.
We do know he brought an offering unto the Lord. One's offering should be the best, becuase He has give us his best; it is our reasonable service. (Rom. 12:2) Even if it was, however, it must be the right kind of an offering for a specific time, as that verse in Leviticus shows. Only blood can bring about the remission of sin.
Finally, moving away fromt he specific sacrifices made by Cain and Abel, we see that a system of sacrifices had already been put in place. We're not sure what it was. However, the important thing is that it showed the continued relationship between God and mankind. The first sacrifice - made by God Himself to make clothes for Adam and Eve - would be followed by many, many sacrifices, all of which could only cover sin. These were pictures of what Christ would do one day on the cross, when - as the Lamb of God - he was slain for the sins of all mankind. Even in the Millennial Kingdom, there will be sacrifices, but these will only be for a memorial, like the Lord's Supper is today. There is no more need for sacrifices now. The curse of sin is broken forever, thanks to Jesus Christ's death and resurrection! Hallelujah!
Gen. 4:2
This verse begins by stating she "again bare Abel." I'm not sure why some believe Cain and Abel were twins, but it is certainly possible. In populating the Earth, it would be very helpful to have many multiples. On the other hand, Seth is singular. Yes, he could have been singled out for God's purpose, at first. Still, whatever tradition states that they were twins can't really be proven one way or the other.
Abel was a keeper of sheep, whichmeans tender of them. In verse 20 of this chapter, we read that one of Cain's line, Jabal, was the father - that is, the first - of those who had cattle. This seems to refer to the roving, cowboy-type who takes his cattle over vast areas, as he also was the father of those who dwell in tents. It could also refer to animal husbandry, the breeding of them for specific purposes. Either way, this is different from Abel.
Abel's interest was in caring for sheep. He'd heard of the animal slain by the Lord as the first sacrifice - one of many, which would lead to the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world. (John 1:29) Abel would be able not only to clothe people, but to provide that for which one could repeat what was done for his parents.
Abel, then, didn't just "guess right." There's a reason Abel chose the sacrifice he did later. It's one which Cain ignored. We can't see into their minds to know for sure. But, we know God's Word. He says that without the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sin. (Lev. 17:11)
Cain, on the other hand, was a farmer. As that incredible, new world, which held so much promise, turned on its axis, and went around the sun, Cain would see how wonderfully the ground produced food; even if there were thorns and thistles, too. Abel, meanwhile, could discuss the wonders of animals.
One imagines Cain and Abel's dinnertime conversations must have been fascinating, as they learned about the world. Cain, after all, tilled the ground - it doesn't say what kinds of seeds, so he must have seen so many interesting ones. Abel, on the other hand, kept sheep. But, he would have seen so many other unique things in the process. Including, perhaps, wolves killing one of the flock. It isn't known how quickly some aniamls became meat eaters, though they were originally all plant eaters. (Gen. 1:30) They may, however, have become meat eaters rather quickly.
Abel was a keeper of sheep, whichmeans tender of them. In verse 20 of this chapter, we read that one of Cain's line, Jabal, was the father - that is, the first - of those who had cattle. This seems to refer to the roving, cowboy-type who takes his cattle over vast areas, as he also was the father of those who dwell in tents. It could also refer to animal husbandry, the breeding of them for specific purposes. Either way, this is different from Abel.
Abel's interest was in caring for sheep. He'd heard of the animal slain by the Lord as the first sacrifice - one of many, which would lead to the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world. (John 1:29) Abel would be able not only to clothe people, but to provide that for which one could repeat what was done for his parents.
Abel, then, didn't just "guess right." There's a reason Abel chose the sacrifice he did later. It's one which Cain ignored. We can't see into their minds to know for sure. But, we know God's Word. He says that without the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sin. (Lev. 17:11)
Cain, on the other hand, was a farmer. As that incredible, new world, which held so much promise, turned on its axis, and went around the sun, Cain would see how wonderfully the ground produced food; even if there were thorns and thistles, too. Abel, meanwhile, could discuss the wonders of animals.
One imagines Cain and Abel's dinnertime conversations must have been fascinating, as they learned about the world. Cain, after all, tilled the ground - it doesn't say what kinds of seeds, so he must have seen so many interesting ones. Abel, on the other hand, kept sheep. But, he would have seen so many other unique things in the process. Including, perhaps, wolves killing one of the flock. It isn't known how quickly some aniamls became meat eaters, though they were originally all plant eaters. (Gen. 1:30) They may, however, have become meat eaters rather quickly.
Gen. 4:1
That brave new world began here. It began with Adam and Eve having left the Garden. One would think that they'd take time to "stop and smell the roses," as they say today. After all, this enormous planet was all theirs. True, they were no longer in Paradise. But, they could look at the incredible Creation around them, the amazing animals, the beautiful sky with its protective layer to shield from harmful radiation, and many other things. And, in doing so, they could celebrate the glories of Creation, and call on the Lord. They could praise Him for their great salvation. After all, He forgave them for bringing sin into the world.
Instead, we don't see mention of people calling on the Lord till the end of this chapter. They're too busy. We see the start of farming, industry, music, and other things. We also see many not-so-nice things. Why? Because people got so busy they forgot about God. In the very next breath, it seems that the first husband and wife were already having children.
Of course, Eve - like others - thought about God. She quickly states that she had gotten a man from the Lord. This is, at least, better than the line of Cain, which refuses to accept God's ways. In this, she set the stage for one of her sons, Seth, to learn about God, and for people to call on the name of the Lord when his son is born. Also, there's no doubt that Adam and Eve taught their many children ((gen. 5:4) all about Creation and the Fall. This is how Abel knew how to sacrifice.
Still, it is so easy for any of us to become so busy - even in doign the Lord's work - that we forget to realize He is the one holding everything together. It's only through Him any of us could function. We should do far more than just say, "Okay, that one's done" at the end of what we do. We should give thanks to the Lord.
Instead, we don't see mention of people calling on the Lord till the end of this chapter. They're too busy. We see the start of farming, industry, music, and other things. We also see many not-so-nice things. Why? Because people got so busy they forgot about God. In the very next breath, it seems that the first husband and wife were already having children.
Of course, Eve - like others - thought about God. She quickly states that she had gotten a man from the Lord. This is, at least, better than the line of Cain, which refuses to accept God's ways. In this, she set the stage for one of her sons, Seth, to learn about God, and for people to call on the name of the Lord when his son is born. Also, there's no doubt that Adam and Eve taught their many children ((gen. 5:4) all about Creation and the Fall. This is how Abel knew how to sacrifice.
Still, it is so easy for any of us to become so busy - even in doign the Lord's work - that we forget to realize He is the one holding everything together. It's only through Him any of us could function. We should do far more than just say, "Okay, that one's done" at the end of what we do. We should give thanks to the Lord.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Gen. 3:24
We see first that God drove out the man. Obviously, Eve was driven out, too. But, the mention of Adam shows that he was left to start his own family. He had a choice, whether or not to follow God’s path for him. This happened, of course, but on another level, it is also symbolic of how we must live our lives. We have a choice, whether to seek God and do according to His will, or to act on our own.
At the start of the chapter, people could still fellowship with God at any time, and there was no separation. Now, a very short time later, people could not automatically do that. They were separated from God by sin.
Of course, God is everywhere. Just like today, He was always working in peoples’ hearts to get them to do what was right. And, His incredible creation – along with other things mentioned as we considered this chapter – would remind mankind of what he had lost. And, of the incredible power of God to save him from his sin by simple faith.
Martin Luther once said that the story of the Resurrection is told in the rebirth of nature every spring. The seasons probably weren’t quite as noticeable there as they are in less equatorial places on Earth today. However, there was still an incredible variety of creatures. There was the incredible expanse of land and sky. Eventually, Adam and Eve came to another place that was very impressive – the sea. Even if it wasn’t an ocean, that large body of water still told them something about the incredible power of God.
This let them see how small and insignificant they were against the incredible planet they lived on. That, Creation, and even some specific creatures – such as the caterpillar which became a butterfly – would remind them, hopefully, that they should not abandon God. He hadn’t abandoned them. He had removed a blessing because of their disobedience. But, they could still multiply on the Earth. They could still see that they needed God’s guidance as they built a world.
Just as we need to see that we, too, need God’s guidance in our lives.
At the start of the chapter, people could still fellowship with God at any time, and there was no separation. Now, a very short time later, people could not automatically do that. They were separated from God by sin.
Of course, God is everywhere. Just like today, He was always working in peoples’ hearts to get them to do what was right. And, His incredible creation – along with other things mentioned as we considered this chapter – would remind mankind of what he had lost. And, of the incredible power of God to save him from his sin by simple faith.
Martin Luther once said that the story of the Resurrection is told in the rebirth of nature every spring. The seasons probably weren’t quite as noticeable there as they are in less equatorial places on Earth today. However, there was still an incredible variety of creatures. There was the incredible expanse of land and sky. Eventually, Adam and Eve came to another place that was very impressive – the sea. Even if it wasn’t an ocean, that large body of water still told them something about the incredible power of God.
This let them see how small and insignificant they were against the incredible planet they lived on. That, Creation, and even some specific creatures – such as the caterpillar which became a butterfly – would remind them, hopefully, that they should not abandon God. He hadn’t abandoned them. He had removed a blessing because of their disobedience. But, they could still multiply on the Earth. They could still see that they needed God’s guidance as they built a world.
Just as we need to see that we, too, need God’s guidance in our lives.
Gen. 3:23
To protect people from themselves, God drove them out of the Garden of Eden. But, it was also a logical consequence to the fact that they hd disobeyed God. We see something interesting, then, in this verse. We learnt hat Adam was driven to the ground from whence he was taken. As noted, Adam had been placed in the Garden. He was not made there originally. At all times, the great things God provides us are a gift. Even to Adam, who had been taken from some ordinary part and placed in Eden.
Notice, however, that nothing is said about his position with God. It didn’t change when he lost the blessing of Eden. In the same way, we lose blessings and rewards if we mess up once we are saved. But, we will never lose our salvation. God only required that Adam come forth to receive forgiveness. Then, God sacrificed that lamb, and clothed Adam and Eve. He never made them go back to their own, failed fig leaves.
Notice, however, that nothing is said about his position with God. It didn’t change when he lost the blessing of Eden. In the same way, we lose blessings and rewards if we mess up once we are saved. But, we will never lose our salvation. God only required that Adam come forth to receive forgiveness. Then, God sacrificed that lamb, and clothed Adam and Eve. He never made them go back to their own, failed fig leaves.
Gen. 3:22
God gives us freedom within the rules. He loves us so much, He gives us freedom to explore the consequences, even if we do wrong sometimes. However, He also does things to protect us, though, when it’s important.
This was clearly one of those times. Whereas God – the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost conferring, hence the term “one of us” - knew good and evil, and always did good, He knew that people would sometimes choose evil. That would mean bad things for the evildoer, or for others. God wanted people to turn to Him so they would always choose good. However, there was a problem.
The way thigns stood now, Adam and Eve would slowly get older – much more slowly because of the protective layer of water which was mentioned. They would die, but by trusting God to change them on the inside, they could still live for Him without sin. In other words, they wouldn’t have those tendencies to do bad things.
However, there was still that tree of life. People had to be shielded from it, because if they weren’t, they might eat of it. Oh, the horror of a body that decays, but never dies! Oh, the horror of always having to live with sin! They would have lived forever, but without the cleansing power of God.
Of course, in John 3:16 and elsewhere, we see that those who believe on Jesus to save them have everlasting life. It’s yours now if you trust in Him! You don’t have to wait to have your sins cleansed. You are cleansed, right away. All your past, present, and future sins are forgiven.
That wasn’t the situation here, of course. God hadn’t yet come in the flesh, in the person of God the Son, Jesus Christ. People had to believe by faith that God would, in the future, redeem them, and thus save them from their sin. This is why Gen. 15:6, as we’ll see later, says Abraham believed in the Lord, and He counted it to him for righteousness. His faith let Christ’s righteousness be imputed to him. Still, he had to die to receive that full blessing, because he always had that sin nature while he was alive.
That’s why the tree of life was a huge problem, now that sin was in the world. The sin nature that Adam and Eve now had would never go away, as long as they lived. If they lived forever, they could have all faith, and have their sins washed away, but they would live forever on a fallen world. They would always feel that decay that comes from sin. They would always feel be able to feel pain and suffering.
God could let them have the freedom to choose to sin in the first place. He had the remedy already available – the redeeming blood of Jesus Christ, which washes away all of our sins. That problem can be solved, by our choosing to allow God to make us new on the inside. Then, He comes and lives inside us, through His Holy Spirit.
Once our bodies get old and die, if we’ve trusted in that precious Redeemer to make us new on the inside, we go to live with God in Heaven someday. We don’t have to suffer or feel pain or anything bad anymore. All is perfect in Heaven, and for His children, like it was supposed to be when God made the world.
But, here on earth, we have a sin nature. And that’s why it was vital that God get us away from that tree of life. Because, the earth had already been contaminated with sin. All the violence and depravity and selfishness of this world mean that it can never be a perfect place. It couldn’t be even if everyone god saved, though it would be a whole lot better. No, the only place that is perfect is Heaven. In fact, Revelation 21 shows that this world will perish, and a new Heaven and new Earth formed, in order to finally eliminate all the ravages of sin that have taken their toll on this one.
In order to get to that perfect, awesome Heaven – a place so incredible one can’t even imagine how awesome it will be - we need to either die or be caught up in the air with Jesus in the Rapture. Life on this world will always have sin in it. So, God removed the tree of life, for our own protection.
This was clearly one of those times. Whereas God – the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost conferring, hence the term “one of us” - knew good and evil, and always did good, He knew that people would sometimes choose evil. That would mean bad things for the evildoer, or for others. God wanted people to turn to Him so they would always choose good. However, there was a problem.
The way thigns stood now, Adam and Eve would slowly get older – much more slowly because of the protective layer of water which was mentioned. They would die, but by trusting God to change them on the inside, they could still live for Him without sin. In other words, they wouldn’t have those tendencies to do bad things.
However, there was still that tree of life. People had to be shielded from it, because if they weren’t, they might eat of it. Oh, the horror of a body that decays, but never dies! Oh, the horror of always having to live with sin! They would have lived forever, but without the cleansing power of God.
Of course, in John 3:16 and elsewhere, we see that those who believe on Jesus to save them have everlasting life. It’s yours now if you trust in Him! You don’t have to wait to have your sins cleansed. You are cleansed, right away. All your past, present, and future sins are forgiven.
That wasn’t the situation here, of course. God hadn’t yet come in the flesh, in the person of God the Son, Jesus Christ. People had to believe by faith that God would, in the future, redeem them, and thus save them from their sin. This is why Gen. 15:6, as we’ll see later, says Abraham believed in the Lord, and He counted it to him for righteousness. His faith let Christ’s righteousness be imputed to him. Still, he had to die to receive that full blessing, because he always had that sin nature while he was alive.
That’s why the tree of life was a huge problem, now that sin was in the world. The sin nature that Adam and Eve now had would never go away, as long as they lived. If they lived forever, they could have all faith, and have their sins washed away, but they would live forever on a fallen world. They would always feel that decay that comes from sin. They would always feel be able to feel pain and suffering.
God could let them have the freedom to choose to sin in the first place. He had the remedy already available – the redeeming blood of Jesus Christ, which washes away all of our sins. That problem can be solved, by our choosing to allow God to make us new on the inside. Then, He comes and lives inside us, through His Holy Spirit.
Once our bodies get old and die, if we’ve trusted in that precious Redeemer to make us new on the inside, we go to live with God in Heaven someday. We don’t have to suffer or feel pain or anything bad anymore. All is perfect in Heaven, and for His children, like it was supposed to be when God made the world.
But, here on earth, we have a sin nature. And that’s why it was vital that God get us away from that tree of life. Because, the earth had already been contaminated with sin. All the violence and depravity and selfishness of this world mean that it can never be a perfect place. It couldn’t be even if everyone god saved, though it would be a whole lot better. No, the only place that is perfect is Heaven. In fact, Revelation 21 shows that this world will perish, and a new Heaven and new Earth formed, in order to finally eliminate all the ravages of sin that have taken their toll on this one.
In order to get to that perfect, awesome Heaven – a place so incredible one can’t even imagine how awesome it will be - we need to either die or be caught up in the air with Jesus in the Rapture. Life on this world will always have sin in it. So, God removed the tree of life, for our own protection.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Gen. 3:21
God next made coasts of skin, and clothed them. There are several interesting points to make concerning this.
First, despite what some commentators say, this appears to be a theophany. That is, a preincarnate (before the virgin birth) appearance of God in bodily form.
Normally, a theophany is called “the angel of the Lord.” Here, though, Moses has just spent an entire chapter discussing the Fall, and God’s reaction to it. It would not have the same power had Moses used “the angel of the Lord” before this, and it would be confusing if he were to suddenly switch to that term here.
So, was it Jesus, in preincarnate form, before? That is less certain. We know that God came down in “the cool of the day,” but He could have come down just as He looked down upon Sodom to see how great their sin was. He could have easily spoken in an audible voice from heaven when correcting Adam and Eve, just as speaks from Heaven at other times, and those to whom His words are not directed merely hear thunder, such as Paul’s Damascus Road experience.
Int his verse, He does something only possible with physical hands, barring some divine miracle. And, the beauty of the Genesis account is that it is so simple – too simple for many, as God has used the foolish things of this world to confound the wise. (1 Cor. 1:27) it is too filled with awe and wonder for the humanist, and for the pagan, has none of the really flashy and confusing things. The story of Creation is very simple – God made, man sinned, God promised a redeemer. It is much more plausible that God would simply come to Earth, in preincarnate form, and make these coasts.
. The beauty and simplicity lets us see our promised Redeemer work. Thousands of years before He took our sins away for good - through His death on the cross and resurrection - He covered the sins of the first man and woman. Their first realization of sin was nakedness. Now, the reminder of God’s blessing would be with them through clothing. It was not sinful for them, as husband and wife to see each other naked. But, the very fact they knew that concept showed that sinful, carnal nature was there.
We see, then, that God Himself covered their sin. It was the shedding of blood that caused that to happen. We don’t know if it was a lamb, but I believe it was. It carries the same symbolism as would come down through history. All the lambs slain from the beginning pointed to the ultimate sacrifice, when Jesus, the Lamb of God, died to pay the sin debt for the world. He didn’t just cover our sins, He washed them away.
This shedding of blood became known as the only proper sacrifice, a picture of how they were to give to God. The Lord would later inspire Moses to write that the life of a thing is in its blood (Lev. 17:11), and the author of Hebrews to write that without the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sin. (Heb. 9:22)
But, every single one of those sacrifices, starting with this lamb could only cover. Jesus, however, took it all away, so it would be on us no more. Hallelujah!
First, despite what some commentators say, this appears to be a theophany. That is, a preincarnate (before the virgin birth) appearance of God in bodily form.
Normally, a theophany is called “the angel of the Lord.” Here, though, Moses has just spent an entire chapter discussing the Fall, and God’s reaction to it. It would not have the same power had Moses used “the angel of the Lord” before this, and it would be confusing if he were to suddenly switch to that term here.
So, was it Jesus, in preincarnate form, before? That is less certain. We know that God came down in “the cool of the day,” but He could have come down just as He looked down upon Sodom to see how great their sin was. He could have easily spoken in an audible voice from heaven when correcting Adam and Eve, just as speaks from Heaven at other times, and those to whom His words are not directed merely hear thunder, such as Paul’s Damascus Road experience.
Int his verse, He does something only possible with physical hands, barring some divine miracle. And, the beauty of the Genesis account is that it is so simple – too simple for many, as God has used the foolish things of this world to confound the wise. (1 Cor. 1:27) it is too filled with awe and wonder for the humanist, and for the pagan, has none of the really flashy and confusing things. The story of Creation is very simple – God made, man sinned, God promised a redeemer. It is much more plausible that God would simply come to Earth, in preincarnate form, and make these coasts.
. The beauty and simplicity lets us see our promised Redeemer work. Thousands of years before He took our sins away for good - through His death on the cross and resurrection - He covered the sins of the first man and woman. Their first realization of sin was nakedness. Now, the reminder of God’s blessing would be with them through clothing. It was not sinful for them, as husband and wife to see each other naked. But, the very fact they knew that concept showed that sinful, carnal nature was there.
We see, then, that God Himself covered their sin. It was the shedding of blood that caused that to happen. We don’t know if it was a lamb, but I believe it was. It carries the same symbolism as would come down through history. All the lambs slain from the beginning pointed to the ultimate sacrifice, when Jesus, the Lamb of God, died to pay the sin debt for the world. He didn’t just cover our sins, He washed them away.
This shedding of blood became known as the only proper sacrifice, a picture of how they were to give to God. The Lord would later inspire Moses to write that the life of a thing is in its blood (Lev. 17:11), and the author of Hebrews to write that without the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sin. (Heb. 9:22)
But, every single one of those sacrifices, starting with this lamb could only cover. Jesus, however, took it all away, so it would be on us no more. Hallelujah!
Gen. 3:20
Adam’s world had been turned upside-down like nobody else’s could have been. And yet, he chose to consider the life that could come. Indeed, many writers believe that this name, Eve,” was a step of faith. Many say it points to Adam’s believe that this promised Redeemer would come from the womb of Eve.
Adam had named her before, of course. The name “woman” was descriptive – she was bone of his bone, and flesh of his flesh. But, it was still a name. The description remained, but the name changed, just as it does elsewhere in Scripture. A change had been made in their relationship, of course – they would no longer have it perfect. There would be problems between them now, which they would have to overcome. However, another change had come, too. Eve was now the “mother of all living.” Whether this was stated by Adam, or a commentary by Moses, it shows a certainty that many would come forth from her. A large group, known as the human race, emerged. And, in the end, the promised Redeemer came, too, so all who came to Him could have eternal life. Because, Jesus Christ was God in flesh, born of a woman.
Adam had named her before, of course. The name “woman” was descriptive – she was bone of his bone, and flesh of his flesh. But, it was still a name. The description remained, but the name changed, just as it does elsewhere in Scripture. A change had been made in their relationship, of course – they would no longer have it perfect. There would be problems between them now, which they would have to overcome. However, another change had come, too. Eve was now the “mother of all living.” Whether this was stated by Adam, or a commentary by Moses, it shows a certainty that many would come forth from her. A large group, known as the human race, emerged. And, in the end, the promised Redeemer came, too, so all who came to Him could have eternal life. Because, Jesus Christ was God in flesh, born of a woman.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Gen. 3:19
That toil and sweat of the brow from our work comes at us just as it came at Adam. This verse points to more than just the thorns and thistles of work. It points to the fact that will be so evident later on. Eternal rewards are the only ones worth earning.
Consider Adam’s situation. He learns that he will have to work much harder to get any yield from the land now. He will do this in sorrow his whole life, realizing what once was. Yes, he would be able to get the herb of the field eventually. But, even when he did, it would seem so fruitless to him at times. The toil and sweat of his brow would make labor so tiring. And, after all that labor, what would he get? A physical body that would grow old, decay, and die.
God knew this. He didn’t want Adam to be surprised. He wanted him to be forewarned. He doesn’t always tell us every consequence of wrong actions. However, He tells us the important ones in His Word. The fact that Adam would have to toil and sweat now wasn’t mentioned specifically. It was, instead, a part of that warning back in Gen. 2:17 that he would surely die. This is because that phrase, literally translated, says, “dying, you will die.” In other words, the process of death would begin right away, and that process would continue until, at long last, Adam returned to dust. This verse, then, is telling Adam just how that would happen.
Of course, some work is more joyful than others. When Paul Harvey, the great radio commentator, passed away, there was a clip of him stating something to the effect that he’d never “worked” a day in his life. It was always so much fun.
That, however, is an element of God’s grace. It shows that God, in His perfect love, has created each of us with interests that, if we hone them, will grow into lifelong work that we’ll love. We’ll love it because God has matched us to that work. Paul Harvey still worked, of course. But, he had found that one specific thing which he could do that brought him pleasure. This is not a sign of salvation per se; plenty of saved people toil in unhappy situations, and plenty of unsaved love their jobs. What it means is that God loves us, and it’s one of the ways He shows that love to us. There is always that reminder – through how we age – that our bodies are but dust. However, he provides us with grace, so we can have life, and have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)
So, why didn’t God give Adam a job like He gave Paul Harvey, one where Adam could say that he “never worked a day in his life?” He might have. Adam’s attitude may have changed to where he grew to love farming. We don’t really know much about Adam’s life, unlike later Bible figures, except that he and his wife had numerous sons and daughters (Gen. 5:4), and that he died at 930 years. Perhaps he said with satisfaction, like King David, “I have never seen the righteous forsaken.” (Ps. 37:25) However, even if he was pleased with what he did, and enjoyed it a lot, he would come to realize something else very important.
That other important thing is the last part of that verse. He would return to the ground. Even if he was the greatest farmer, the greatest inventor, or whatever, it would all be for naught. Yes, Adam could receive God’s forgiveness. He would then have the certainty of that promise of a Redeemer. However, that would be for the hereafter. The only thing remembered on earth would be that he’d lived. Whatever he cultivated, all the things he had done in this life, would be treasures on earth. Ones that moth and rust can corrupt, and thieves can break forth and steal. (Matt. 6:19) He would not be taking it with him into the next life. That frail, physical body would simply return to the dust.
It is, therefore, vital that we lay up treasures in Heaven, where they can’t grow old or be stolen. (Matt. 6:20) This verse applies just as much to us as it does to Adam. We, too, have physical bodies that will return to the ground. However, we also have that promised Redeemer, Jesus Christ. He longs for us to turn to Him. He longs for us to be born again, through what He did for us on the cross, dying and rising from the dead. And, then, He longs for us to build those treasures iN heaven, so we don’t have to be empty-handed when we approach the throne of God. We can have crowns to lay at His feet. We can have wonderful, eternal blessings that go beyond this world, into eternity.
Consider Adam’s situation. He learns that he will have to work much harder to get any yield from the land now. He will do this in sorrow his whole life, realizing what once was. Yes, he would be able to get the herb of the field eventually. But, even when he did, it would seem so fruitless to him at times. The toil and sweat of his brow would make labor so tiring. And, after all that labor, what would he get? A physical body that would grow old, decay, and die.
God knew this. He didn’t want Adam to be surprised. He wanted him to be forewarned. He doesn’t always tell us every consequence of wrong actions. However, He tells us the important ones in His Word. The fact that Adam would have to toil and sweat now wasn’t mentioned specifically. It was, instead, a part of that warning back in Gen. 2:17 that he would surely die. This is because that phrase, literally translated, says, “dying, you will die.” In other words, the process of death would begin right away, and that process would continue until, at long last, Adam returned to dust. This verse, then, is telling Adam just how that would happen.
Of course, some work is more joyful than others. When Paul Harvey, the great radio commentator, passed away, there was a clip of him stating something to the effect that he’d never “worked” a day in his life. It was always so much fun.
That, however, is an element of God’s grace. It shows that God, in His perfect love, has created each of us with interests that, if we hone them, will grow into lifelong work that we’ll love. We’ll love it because God has matched us to that work. Paul Harvey still worked, of course. But, he had found that one specific thing which he could do that brought him pleasure. This is not a sign of salvation per se; plenty of saved people toil in unhappy situations, and plenty of unsaved love their jobs. What it means is that God loves us, and it’s one of the ways He shows that love to us. There is always that reminder – through how we age – that our bodies are but dust. However, he provides us with grace, so we can have life, and have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)
So, why didn’t God give Adam a job like He gave Paul Harvey, one where Adam could say that he “never worked a day in his life?” He might have. Adam’s attitude may have changed to where he grew to love farming. We don’t really know much about Adam’s life, unlike later Bible figures, except that he and his wife had numerous sons and daughters (Gen. 5:4), and that he died at 930 years. Perhaps he said with satisfaction, like King David, “I have never seen the righteous forsaken.” (Ps. 37:25) However, even if he was pleased with what he did, and enjoyed it a lot, he would come to realize something else very important.
That other important thing is the last part of that verse. He would return to the ground. Even if he was the greatest farmer, the greatest inventor, or whatever, it would all be for naught. Yes, Adam could receive God’s forgiveness. He would then have the certainty of that promise of a Redeemer. However, that would be for the hereafter. The only thing remembered on earth would be that he’d lived. Whatever he cultivated, all the things he had done in this life, would be treasures on earth. Ones that moth and rust can corrupt, and thieves can break forth and steal. (Matt. 6:19) He would not be taking it with him into the next life. That frail, physical body would simply return to the dust.
It is, therefore, vital that we lay up treasures in Heaven, where they can’t grow old or be stolen. (Matt. 6:20) This verse applies just as much to us as it does to Adam. We, too, have physical bodies that will return to the ground. However, we also have that promised Redeemer, Jesus Christ. He longs for us to turn to Him. He longs for us to be born again, through what He did for us on the cross, dying and rising from the dead. And, then, He longs for us to build those treasures iN heaven, so we don’t have to be empty-handed when we approach the throne of God. We can have crowns to lay at His feet. We can have wonderful, eternal blessings that go beyond this world, into eternity.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Gen. 3:18
What he’d brought into the world also caused that world to develop its thorns and thistles. The next two verses not only contain God’s admonition to Adam, they also speak to the problems of working that have existed since sin entered the world.
Till the garden would have been easy. But, now it would bring forth problems, instead of simply bearing fruit. Every difficulty we encounter, no matter what our work is, can be traced back to these thorns and thistles. Every task that seems fruitless, every attempt to get something done that ultimately fails, comes because of this.
Of course, work has success, too. God promises that success will come, when He tells Adam he shall eat the herb of the field. What he is saying, though, is that that herb is going to be hard to come by, much harder than if sin were not present.
Some jobs bring more difficulties than others, of course. In some, it’s the location – a house in a poor market might not sell for man months, even with the best seller. With some, it’s the nature of the job – the best doctor can’t save every patient. Even in a field where that doctor would rarely ever see something bad, there will always be that one case that turns out to be an untreatable cancer. Thorns and thistles come up in every field.
And yet, when all is said and done, that agent can find someone to buy, if the price is low enough. The surgeon in the busiest emergency room, with the worst accidents, will be able to save some. The herb of the field will come. It will just be with a lot of effort, a lot of toil, and a lot of sweat.
Till the garden would have been easy. But, now it would bring forth problems, instead of simply bearing fruit. Every difficulty we encounter, no matter what our work is, can be traced back to these thorns and thistles. Every task that seems fruitless, every attempt to get something done that ultimately fails, comes because of this.
Of course, work has success, too. God promises that success will come, when He tells Adam he shall eat the herb of the field. What he is saying, though, is that that herb is going to be hard to come by, much harder than if sin were not present.
Some jobs bring more difficulties than others, of course. In some, it’s the location – a house in a poor market might not sell for man months, even with the best seller. With some, it’s the nature of the job – the best doctor can’t save every patient. Even in a field where that doctor would rarely ever see something bad, there will always be that one case that turns out to be an untreatable cancer. Thorns and thistles come up in every field.
And yet, when all is said and done, that agent can find someone to buy, if the price is low enough. The surgeon in the busiest emergency room, with the worst accidents, will be able to save some. The herb of the field will come. It will just be with a lot of effort, a lot of toil, and a lot of sweat.
Gen. 3:17
God addresses Adam next. The first thing one sees here is that God states that he listened to his wife. Aside from the obvious point – which was stated earlier – that they were already married before the Fall, there are a few interesting points to this.
First, God doesn’t say that Adam listened to the devil himself. This could, as noted, be a clue that Adam wasn’t present during any of the time his wife was tempted. However, more importantly, it continues the warning mentioned earlier.
We should never listen to anyone but God. We, our leaders, our loved ones, everyone else is human and subject to the wiles of the devil. The devil will often use those who love us, and who we love, the most; he goes around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. (1 Peter 5:8) God is warning us, as well as Adam, not to be tempted because someone we love, or respect, or anything, has this great idea. We need to make sure the idea is along the lines of what God commands. Of course, there will be gray areas that God hasn’t said specifically – but in these areas we must still be wise stewards of our time, money, and other things that God has given us.
We must also realize that God is going to call us to account for what we have done, and that leaders – such as Adam, who was the spiritual leader – are accountable for much more, because they must take the lead. Adam, then is also chastised for not being the leader in this situation, but for following the one he should have led.
Also, God notes what Adam had said earlier. In blaming his wife, he tried to take the blame off of himself, and even off of the devil. He tried to say, in essence, “Well, this is the woman You gave me. Isn’t this Your problem?” God gives a flat out “no” to that. If we don’t use the things God gave us in the right way, it is totally our fault. Similarly, since we have God’s Word, the Bible, we must never misuse it for our selfish interests. Just because God gave us a gift doesn’t give us the right to do as we please.
Next, the Lord repeats His original warning. This is to echo what was just said – just because the one God gave him said differently, doesn’t mean that he should act differently. God’s Word was that Adam should not eat of the tree, and that was that.
Next, God points out that the curse of sin had spread. Not only was man cursed. Not only was the serpent, like all creatures, cursed. The ground itself was cursed. Sin had spread to the entire world with just that one act of defiance.
The trial of Galileo wasn’t just about science; it was political, too. However, the Catholic Church’s position during this time – that there could be no imperfections – shows that these leaders had totally abandoned the Bible, and were trying to have everything their own way. The ground had been cursed. Sin had spread everywhere. Indeed, we are told that Creation itself groans in pain until now. (Rom. 8:22) Not every Protestant Church has been perfect. They have made errors themselves, because they are people. However, if a church remains founded on the Word of God, that church will be in far less danger of problems. Because, the Bible may not say, specifically, that ‘the earth revolves around the sun.” It does, however, provide everything we need to know about living and loving others in a way that will build them up, and keep them from evil.
We don’t stay totally committed to God, because of our sin nature. Adam would have that sin nature with him the rest of his life. It would bring him sorrow.
Many people enjoy the simple life; farming, as noted above, is something that brings one closer to nature, and to God. Why, then, is it different for Adam? Because he knew where he’d come from. He’d been in Eden, and one of the consequences of his sin was that he would no longer be in that perfect world. God still loved him; but, like a Christian who sins, he lost blessing and rewards. He would sorrow the rest of his life, realizing just what he’d done, and what he’d brought into the world.
First, God doesn’t say that Adam listened to the devil himself. This could, as noted, be a clue that Adam wasn’t present during any of the time his wife was tempted. However, more importantly, it continues the warning mentioned earlier.
We should never listen to anyone but God. We, our leaders, our loved ones, everyone else is human and subject to the wiles of the devil. The devil will often use those who love us, and who we love, the most; he goes around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. (1 Peter 5:8) God is warning us, as well as Adam, not to be tempted because someone we love, or respect, or anything, has this great idea. We need to make sure the idea is along the lines of what God commands. Of course, there will be gray areas that God hasn’t said specifically – but in these areas we must still be wise stewards of our time, money, and other things that God has given us.
We must also realize that God is going to call us to account for what we have done, and that leaders – such as Adam, who was the spiritual leader – are accountable for much more, because they must take the lead. Adam, then is also chastised for not being the leader in this situation, but for following the one he should have led.
Also, God notes what Adam had said earlier. In blaming his wife, he tried to take the blame off of himself, and even off of the devil. He tried to say, in essence, “Well, this is the woman You gave me. Isn’t this Your problem?” God gives a flat out “no” to that. If we don’t use the things God gave us in the right way, it is totally our fault. Similarly, since we have God’s Word, the Bible, we must never misuse it for our selfish interests. Just because God gave us a gift doesn’t give us the right to do as we please.
Next, the Lord repeats His original warning. This is to echo what was just said – just because the one God gave him said differently, doesn’t mean that he should act differently. God’s Word was that Adam should not eat of the tree, and that was that.
Next, God points out that the curse of sin had spread. Not only was man cursed. Not only was the serpent, like all creatures, cursed. The ground itself was cursed. Sin had spread to the entire world with just that one act of defiance.
The trial of Galileo wasn’t just about science; it was political, too. However, the Catholic Church’s position during this time – that there could be no imperfections – shows that these leaders had totally abandoned the Bible, and were trying to have everything their own way. The ground had been cursed. Sin had spread everywhere. Indeed, we are told that Creation itself groans in pain until now. (Rom. 8:22) Not every Protestant Church has been perfect. They have made errors themselves, because they are people. However, if a church remains founded on the Word of God, that church will be in far less danger of problems. Because, the Bible may not say, specifically, that ‘the earth revolves around the sun.” It does, however, provide everything we need to know about living and loving others in a way that will build them up, and keep them from evil.
We don’t stay totally committed to God, because of our sin nature. Adam would have that sin nature with him the rest of his life. It would bring him sorrow.
Many people enjoy the simple life; farming, as noted above, is something that brings one closer to nature, and to God. Why, then, is it different for Adam? Because he knew where he’d come from. He’d been in Eden, and one of the consequences of his sin was that he would no longer be in that perfect world. God still loved him; but, like a Christian who sins, he lost blessing and rewards. He would sorrow the rest of his life, realizing just what he’d done, and what he’d brought into the world.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Gen. 3:16
Notice first that the punishment is only here on earth, as with the man’s. After death, if one trusts in Jesus Christ as Savior, there is no more curse. Indeed, there is no condemnation at all to those who are in Christ Jesus (Rom. 8:1), but that speaks of eternal condemnation. The consequences for sin on earth must still exist. It is not just for the sins we commit that Christ had to die, but for our very sin nature, that He suffered, died, and rose victirously, having gotten the victory over death. This world has problems, but Jesus has conquered the great foe called death, and we can be conquerors of it, too, by trusting in Jesus Christ to save us. Thus, the second death has no power on Christians.
God speaks to the woman next. First, he tells her that her sorrow and conception would be greatly multiplied. This has a few different meanings.
First, since there was no pain or suffering before the fall, there would be no pain in childbirth, either. This term may refer to pregnancy in general, as well as the actual conception of a baby. This ties in with God’s promise that women would bring forth children in sorrow. Indeed, while the birth at the end is joyful, the labor pains and problems beforehand are tremendous. Oh, there might have been some discomfort from carrying a baby for nine months, but it would have just been like normal work for the man. Carrying a baby would have been as easy as caring for the garden, like Adam had been told to do in the beginning.
Add to this the problem of stillbirths and young children dying. Infant mortality rates were enormous at times, and childhood diseases claimed many lives, before modern medicine. The average life expectancy – the average age at which people died - among just the nobility in England in the mid-1300s was below 20! And they were often much better off than peasants! This doesn’t mean people only lived to that age, it means that children died so often, it totally skewed the averages. Of course, it was a little better at other times, but not out of the 20s in most places in the Middle Ages.
All this adds up to a very sobering picture. Because sin had been brought into the world, the incredible discomfort of child bearing, and the possibility that she, too, would die in childbirth, entered the world.
The possibility of death is there, too, if we take each of these statements individually. A woman’s sorrow is noteworthy, first, because of the problem of death, which entered into the world because of sin. Indeed, years later, when Cain killed Abel, Eve suffered the terrible fate of having to bury a son. It’s a fate no woman should have to face. It’s an expected part of life that parents will die before their children, after they have lived long and productive lives. Seeing one’s child sick, hurting, or dead is something no mother wants to think about.
There was another problem, too, though. Her son Cain was a murderer. Even thus became the first woman to second guess herself constantly. What had she done wrong in raising that boy? What could she have done differently? Could she have prevented it? And, how did she handle the conflict between wanting her son to get help, and yet wanting justice to be served because Abel had been killed? It is sorrow that has come upon every mother whose child is in trouble, whose child has rebelled.
Sorrow, too, over relationships was increased. Because God provided for woman to be the better nurturers (though because of sin there are vast differences at time), they also seem to care more deeply on the outside. Since your author is legally blind and has trouble reading people anyway, though, it’s hard to say how much of that is true, and how much is that men just don't' let it show, except in more hidden cues. I leave it up to those who have made great study of this part to go into this more.
Her conception was also multiplied. Even would have many children – some speculate they already had a lot by the time Cain killed Abel. But, others would also have more, because the danger of children dying so young meant more needed to be born. Of course, that tradition had continued in some areas even with modern medicine.
Whether this meant that her pregnancy was meant to only last a short time is not cler, but hat is doubtful. God could make baby humans more completely in a faster time in the womb if He chose. However, as noted above, Adam’s job was the care for the garden, anyway. Therefore, it is quite likely that this would have simply been a nine month job that, again, would have been much less work.
Next, God says that the woman’s desires shall be to thy husband. As with the above, and many verses in the Bible, this has several aspects.
First, her desires would be to please him. Simply wanting to please people, and nto God, is a problem that we all have. This is made worse when the devil – the father of lies (John 8:44) – distorts the command to honor those in authority and makes people think that people are to be placed above God. In fact, God’s Word says the opposite – we ought to obey God, rather than man. (Acts 5:29) We should obey authority in all areas that do not conflict with God’s rules. However, When God’s rules say something different from what people say, God is the one to be followed.
Great examples of this are found in the Book of Daniel. Shadrach, Mechach, and Abed-Nego, and then Daniel himself, show perfect what God expects. We should never bow down to idols. We should always pray. It’s okay for authority to say that prayer out loud at a certain place is disruptive, such as in the middle of a court session. But, nobody had the right to forbid Daniel from praying privately to God.
Because we want to please others, however, get caught in the trap of forgetting about God. This casues us to commit other sins at times, too. Most lies, for instance come out of a desire to please someone else in some way.
Those desires toward her husband also cause Eve – and all since – to have more sensual desires, too. This means men and women can be drawn away by their own desires. However, this isn’t the final point of this verse.
Not only were the woman’s desires to please the man, but this verse is often read to mean that her desires would be supplanted by his desires. This means that she would feel things she never should have had to feel.
Look back at where we talked about the problems that knowing good and eveil would cause. One of those problems was that selfish communication and desires would take the place of selfless communication. In other words, because Adam and Eve ate of the tree, they suddenly knew how to be selfish, and not care about others.
So, instead of always being the man’s soulmate, a woman now must be careful that she marry the right person. Because, if she takes someone who is not that perfect match, she might wind up in a much worse distuation. It could be with a husband who is cold and uncaring, or who has no time for the family, or something else bad. Instead of the man being the spiritual leader, the man may lead the woman down the wrong path, and the woman will be along for a very bumby ride.
This is nto to say, of course, that such a woman can’t make it trying to follow God as the spiritual leader with a husband who is absent. The Shumannite woman in 2 Kings 4:8-37 is a perfect example. But, she has two huge advantages that most woman don’t. First, her husband isn’t fighting her over her suggestion to build a prophet’s chamber and serve the man of God, Elisha. Rather, her husband is apathetic. We don’t know why, but we do know wha the Bible says. God, in 2 Kings 4:8, calls her a great woman. She had the determination that not a lot of women have.
As we close the discussion on this verse, it should be noted that the Shumannite women never boasts. She also never complains about her husband’s mental absence. Instead, she gives all the credit and glory to God, and all her focus is on Him. This is where it should be for men and women. However, God wants us to have an easier life. He didn’t want the Shumannite woman to have to work that hard to serve Him. He wanted the husband to do it because he was to be the spiritual head. The wife was supposed to have it easier. Many things were made harder, however, because of Eve’s choice.
And, harsh consequences were handed down to Adam, as well.
God speaks to the woman next. First, he tells her that her sorrow and conception would be greatly multiplied. This has a few different meanings.
First, since there was no pain or suffering before the fall, there would be no pain in childbirth, either. This term may refer to pregnancy in general, as well as the actual conception of a baby. This ties in with God’s promise that women would bring forth children in sorrow. Indeed, while the birth at the end is joyful, the labor pains and problems beforehand are tremendous. Oh, there might have been some discomfort from carrying a baby for nine months, but it would have just been like normal work for the man. Carrying a baby would have been as easy as caring for the garden, like Adam had been told to do in the beginning.
Add to this the problem of stillbirths and young children dying. Infant mortality rates were enormous at times, and childhood diseases claimed many lives, before modern medicine. The average life expectancy – the average age at which people died - among just the nobility in England in the mid-1300s was below 20! And they were often much better off than peasants! This doesn’t mean people only lived to that age, it means that children died so often, it totally skewed the averages. Of course, it was a little better at other times, but not out of the 20s in most places in the Middle Ages.
All this adds up to a very sobering picture. Because sin had been brought into the world, the incredible discomfort of child bearing, and the possibility that she, too, would die in childbirth, entered the world.
The possibility of death is there, too, if we take each of these statements individually. A woman’s sorrow is noteworthy, first, because of the problem of death, which entered into the world because of sin. Indeed, years later, when Cain killed Abel, Eve suffered the terrible fate of having to bury a son. It’s a fate no woman should have to face. It’s an expected part of life that parents will die before their children, after they have lived long and productive lives. Seeing one’s child sick, hurting, or dead is something no mother wants to think about.
There was another problem, too, though. Her son Cain was a murderer. Even thus became the first woman to second guess herself constantly. What had she done wrong in raising that boy? What could she have done differently? Could she have prevented it? And, how did she handle the conflict between wanting her son to get help, and yet wanting justice to be served because Abel had been killed? It is sorrow that has come upon every mother whose child is in trouble, whose child has rebelled.
Sorrow, too, over relationships was increased. Because God provided for woman to be the better nurturers (though because of sin there are vast differences at time), they also seem to care more deeply on the outside. Since your author is legally blind and has trouble reading people anyway, though, it’s hard to say how much of that is true, and how much is that men just don't' let it show, except in more hidden cues. I leave it up to those who have made great study of this part to go into this more.
Her conception was also multiplied. Even would have many children – some speculate they already had a lot by the time Cain killed Abel. But, others would also have more, because the danger of children dying so young meant more needed to be born. Of course, that tradition had continued in some areas even with modern medicine.
Whether this meant that her pregnancy was meant to only last a short time is not cler, but hat is doubtful. God could make baby humans more completely in a faster time in the womb if He chose. However, as noted above, Adam’s job was the care for the garden, anyway. Therefore, it is quite likely that this would have simply been a nine month job that, again, would have been much less work.
Next, God says that the woman’s desires shall be to thy husband. As with the above, and many verses in the Bible, this has several aspects.
First, her desires would be to please him. Simply wanting to please people, and nto God, is a problem that we all have. This is made worse when the devil – the father of lies (John 8:44) – distorts the command to honor those in authority and makes people think that people are to be placed above God. In fact, God’s Word says the opposite – we ought to obey God, rather than man. (Acts 5:29) We should obey authority in all areas that do not conflict with God’s rules. However, When God’s rules say something different from what people say, God is the one to be followed.
Great examples of this are found in the Book of Daniel. Shadrach, Mechach, and Abed-Nego, and then Daniel himself, show perfect what God expects. We should never bow down to idols. We should always pray. It’s okay for authority to say that prayer out loud at a certain place is disruptive, such as in the middle of a court session. But, nobody had the right to forbid Daniel from praying privately to God.
Because we want to please others, however, get caught in the trap of forgetting about God. This casues us to commit other sins at times, too. Most lies, for instance come out of a desire to please someone else in some way.
Those desires toward her husband also cause Eve – and all since – to have more sensual desires, too. This means men and women can be drawn away by their own desires. However, this isn’t the final point of this verse.
Not only were the woman’s desires to please the man, but this verse is often read to mean that her desires would be supplanted by his desires. This means that she would feel things she never should have had to feel.
Look back at where we talked about the problems that knowing good and eveil would cause. One of those problems was that selfish communication and desires would take the place of selfless communication. In other words, because Adam and Eve ate of the tree, they suddenly knew how to be selfish, and not care about others.
So, instead of always being the man’s soulmate, a woman now must be careful that she marry the right person. Because, if she takes someone who is not that perfect match, she might wind up in a much worse distuation. It could be with a husband who is cold and uncaring, or who has no time for the family, or something else bad. Instead of the man being the spiritual leader, the man may lead the woman down the wrong path, and the woman will be along for a very bumby ride.
This is nto to say, of course, that such a woman can’t make it trying to follow God as the spiritual leader with a husband who is absent. The Shumannite woman in 2 Kings 4:8-37 is a perfect example. But, she has two huge advantages that most woman don’t. First, her husband isn’t fighting her over her suggestion to build a prophet’s chamber and serve the man of God, Elisha. Rather, her husband is apathetic. We don’t know why, but we do know wha the Bible says. God, in 2 Kings 4:8, calls her a great woman. She had the determination that not a lot of women have.
As we close the discussion on this verse, it should be noted that the Shumannite women never boasts. She also never complains about her husband’s mental absence. Instead, she gives all the credit and glory to God, and all her focus is on Him. This is where it should be for men and women. However, God wants us to have an easier life. He didn’t want the Shumannite woman to have to work that hard to serve Him. He wanted the husband to do it because he was to be the spiritual head. The wife was supposed to have it easier. Many things were made harder, however, because of Eve’s choice.
And, harsh consequences were handed down to Adam, as well.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Some have taken the enmity in verse 15 to mean that people would be afraid of snakes – especially women. While there may be some truth to that, not all despise such creatures. Not only that, but using only this meaning robs this verse of its richness. This is the first verse with a promise from God, who can’t lie.
In speaking to the devil, God singles out the one responsible for the serpent seducing Eve. God will always get at the root of a problem. Far to often in human circles, we treat secondary causes. This isn’t just because of laziness – sometimes we don't' always understand full that there are underlying causes.
However, whether sins of omission or commission, ignoring the root cause of something is sin. The root cause of a problem is not always as black and white as humans want it to be. This is why we must always be led by the Lord, and filled with the Holy Spirit. (Eph. 5:18) The Greek word “filled” here is a word which means “controlled.”
Let’s use a thief as an example. If that thief steals because he has never found Christ, he needs to find Chirst so he can stop stealing and trust in the Lord for all his needs. A person who is on that path must be gotten off of it before they begin a life of crime. But, first, that person must be shown why stealing is wrong. They may need to be shown an entirely different way of living, based on god’s Word. Just saying “don't' steal” does no good. Yes, the Israelites were told this as one of the Ten Commandments, but remember that they had seen God’s power and might. They were His chosen people. They had the society that some people don’t have. Certainly, thieves must be punished, but God’s number one purpose is to see souls saved. And, that thief may not be able to stop stealing until he is told an alternative.
Remember, Adam was given an alternative to eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, after all. He was told he could eat of every other tree. We must trust God, through the Holy Spirit, to direct us in how to approach every situation. We must realize that, as humans, we can’t do it ourselves. We don’t have perfect knowledge. We must get at the root of the problem to help a person to get rid of that sin. That’s why programs such as Reformer’s Unanimous are so important, and so successful. They help people get at the root cause of their problems.
Getting back to the verse, notice that the promise is made to put this enmity between the devil’s seed and the woman’s seed. Why isn’t this promise given to the man? Because Jesus Christ would not come from a man. The first Adam brought sin into the world. It is through the man that we all inherit that sin nature.
What, then, is the devil’s seed? It is all who follow after him. Our Lord Jesus Christ, when he was in His earthly ministry, announced that very plainly when he said the Pharisees were of their father, the devil. (John 8:44) The devil is the father of lies, a murderer from the beginning, and the begetter of all things evil. His seed are all those who follow the world’s ways, ways that are the complete opposite of Christ’s.
It’s so wonderful, then, that this promise is given! Because, we all fall short of God’s perfect glory. All of us have followed that evil way at one time, because of our fleshly nature. It is only through Christ’s redemptive work that any of us can be changed on the inside, and come to know Him as our Savior. We go from being the sons of darkness to being the sons of light!
See, too, that this promise is unbreakable. God says this will happen, and when God says it, that settles it Some people have missed the promise here, perhaps because God doesn’t tell the woman this directly. But, who He tells doesn’t make it any less of a promise. God’s Word will always prevail. And, the seed of the woman, Jesus Christ, would and has bruise the head of the devil.
Why the head? Because it’s the most important part of the body. The Lord dealt a death blow to death itself when He rose from the dead victoriously! Now, people don’t have to fear death. Some do, because they don’t realize that by simple faith they can go from darkness to light. By simple faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and His finished work on the cross, each person can become a wonderful new creation, and then grow closer to Christ’s perfect love and goodness till it’s time for the Lord to take them home.This fact was foretold right here in the Garden of Eden. It was made before God even passed judgment on Adam and Eve for their sin. Because, he wants to show mercy.
But, notice that the devil’s seed would bruise the heel of the woman’s seed. A bruise to a heel is not lasting. It causes pain and discomfort, but it heels quickly. So, too, Jesus was in the tomb for three days, then rose from the dead. Certainly, snakes nip at peoples’ heels, but not all snakes do this. Those commentators who think this is just about snakes never considered the mighty boa constrictor, which squeezes the life out of its prey. They never considered how some snakes can get up off the ground a little bit. This is clearly a reference to the devil, and how he would interact with Jesus.
But, there is one other thing it refers to. Remember, John 1:12 promises anyone who trusts in Jesus Christ as Savior has the power to become the Sons of God. They go from being the seed of the devil, to being kinfolk to Christ. The saved are no longer of the devil. And yet, he continues to nip at our heels, constantly trying to bring us down. The aches and pains caused by life are awful at times. Thankfully, to the saved person, all it is is like a bruise to the heel. Painful fro a time, but then, heeled and all better. Because theahces, pains,a nd injuries of this life are not worthy to be compared with that which is to come! (Rom. 8:18) There is constant enmity between the devil and those who have received Christ. But, one day, in heaven, that will all be over.
In speaking to the devil, God singles out the one responsible for the serpent seducing Eve. God will always get at the root of a problem. Far to often in human circles, we treat secondary causes. This isn’t just because of laziness – sometimes we don't' always understand full that there are underlying causes.
However, whether sins of omission or commission, ignoring the root cause of something is sin. The root cause of a problem is not always as black and white as humans want it to be. This is why we must always be led by the Lord, and filled with the Holy Spirit. (Eph. 5:18) The Greek word “filled” here is a word which means “controlled.”
Let’s use a thief as an example. If that thief steals because he has never found Christ, he needs to find Chirst so he can stop stealing and trust in the Lord for all his needs. A person who is on that path must be gotten off of it before they begin a life of crime. But, first, that person must be shown why stealing is wrong. They may need to be shown an entirely different way of living, based on god’s Word. Just saying “don't' steal” does no good. Yes, the Israelites were told this as one of the Ten Commandments, but remember that they had seen God’s power and might. They were His chosen people. They had the society that some people don’t have. Certainly, thieves must be punished, but God’s number one purpose is to see souls saved. And, that thief may not be able to stop stealing until he is told an alternative.
Remember, Adam was given an alternative to eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, after all. He was told he could eat of every other tree. We must trust God, through the Holy Spirit, to direct us in how to approach every situation. We must realize that, as humans, we can’t do it ourselves. We don’t have perfect knowledge. We must get at the root of the problem to help a person to get rid of that sin. That’s why programs such as Reformer’s Unanimous are so important, and so successful. They help people get at the root cause of their problems.
Getting back to the verse, notice that the promise is made to put this enmity between the devil’s seed and the woman’s seed. Why isn’t this promise given to the man? Because Jesus Christ would not come from a man. The first Adam brought sin into the world. It is through the man that we all inherit that sin nature.
What, then, is the devil’s seed? It is all who follow after him. Our Lord Jesus Christ, when he was in His earthly ministry, announced that very plainly when he said the Pharisees were of their father, the devil. (John 8:44) The devil is the father of lies, a murderer from the beginning, and the begetter of all things evil. His seed are all those who follow the world’s ways, ways that are the complete opposite of Christ’s.
It’s so wonderful, then, that this promise is given! Because, we all fall short of God’s perfect glory. All of us have followed that evil way at one time, because of our fleshly nature. It is only through Christ’s redemptive work that any of us can be changed on the inside, and come to know Him as our Savior. We go from being the sons of darkness to being the sons of light!
See, too, that this promise is unbreakable. God says this will happen, and when God says it, that settles it Some people have missed the promise here, perhaps because God doesn’t tell the woman this directly. But, who He tells doesn’t make it any less of a promise. God’s Word will always prevail. And, the seed of the woman, Jesus Christ, would and has bruise the head of the devil.
Why the head? Because it’s the most important part of the body. The Lord dealt a death blow to death itself when He rose from the dead victoriously! Now, people don’t have to fear death. Some do, because they don’t realize that by simple faith they can go from darkness to light. By simple faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and His finished work on the cross, each person can become a wonderful new creation, and then grow closer to Christ’s perfect love and goodness till it’s time for the Lord to take them home.This fact was foretold right here in the Garden of Eden. It was made before God even passed judgment on Adam and Eve for their sin. Because, he wants to show mercy.
But, notice that the devil’s seed would bruise the heel of the woman’s seed. A bruise to a heel is not lasting. It causes pain and discomfort, but it heels quickly. So, too, Jesus was in the tomb for three days, then rose from the dead. Certainly, snakes nip at peoples’ heels, but not all snakes do this. Those commentators who think this is just about snakes never considered the mighty boa constrictor, which squeezes the life out of its prey. They never considered how some snakes can get up off the ground a little bit. This is clearly a reference to the devil, and how he would interact with Jesus.
But, there is one other thing it refers to. Remember, John 1:12 promises anyone who trusts in Jesus Christ as Savior has the power to become the Sons of God. They go from being the seed of the devil, to being kinfolk to Christ. The saved are no longer of the devil. And yet, he continues to nip at our heels, constantly trying to bring us down. The aches and pains caused by life are awful at times. Thankfully, to the saved person, all it is is like a bruise to the heel. Painful fro a time, but then, heeled and all better. Because theahces, pains,a nd injuries of this life are not worthy to be compared with that which is to come! (Rom. 8:18) There is constant enmity between the devil and those who have received Christ. But, one day, in heaven, that will all be over.
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