Adam and Eve are probably the most known names in scripture. They were placed in a unique environment where they had all they needed and even walked with God. They were created in God’s image, which included the ability to make correct decisions. When God created the world, He clearly defined right from wrong. All moral issues were objective and not subjective. Free will allows us to do the wrong thing, but there has always been an option to choose what is right. Adam and Eve were told not to eat from a specific tree giving them their first opportunity to actualize their commitment to God; would they trust Him or seek something more?
Scripture suggests the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil had tremendous alluring power, primarily in how it affected the senses. Eve listens to the snake’s seduction and is also attracted to the look of the Tree. She then takes the fruit in hand and tastes it. As the verses say: “And when the woman saw that the tree was… a delight to the eyes… she took of the fruit and did eat…” (Genesis 3:6). When Adam and Eve eat from the Tree, it triggered a new modus operandi for the entire human experience: the senses become more powerful than the intellect. And because all sensory delights are subjective, it was at this point that man’s frame of reference became personal rather than universal. Thus, everyone born later felt empowered to decide between right and wrong, and moral confusion entered the world.
Adam and Eve were aware of what they were doing. They knew that the Tree was off-limits. It was not that they were lacking anything in the Garden of Eden. So, what did they feel was missing?
There are two ways to attain wisdom: either learn about it intellectually or acquire it through life experience. From a sensory perspective, the thrill of the experience is undoubtedly unmatched. But at the same time, it is fraught with danger. Do we need to experience every drug and every decadent activity to know it’s not for us? After all, we are all aware of how the result of these experiences carries the danger of permanent physical or emotional scarring. That is why God’s discussion with Adam and Eve after they sinned was not about punishment but consequences. Their removal from the garden was God telling them that if they choose to live without His provision and love, their life will play out differently than intended.
So how do we choose wisely? We have scripture. Paul reminds us, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17. And we also have the Holy Spirit promised by Jesus. “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. John 14:26.
“So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves”. Galatians 5:16