Jeff Shelnutt Sermons Jeff Shelnutt

If Genesis 1-2 explain God's intention for the creation of man, then chapter 3 describes what went wrong. In the dialogue between the serpent and Eve, the identity of this malevolent presence in the garden becomes apparent. We see from the passage the two temptations Eve faced: the temptation to doubt God's Word and the temptation to deny God's Word. Beneath his lies, the serpent calls into question the goodness of God.

The first time Scripture records the words of Adam, they are in reference to the first woman. With poetic phrasing, Adam expresses the togetherness of marriage. This is followed by the model for marriage. And finally, this passage reveals the priorities of marriage.

As the priest of the sacred space called the garden of Eden, the first man is provided with all he needs. However, the Lord makes him aware of his incompleteness, the one way in which Adam's life is "not good." How God chooses to remedy his relational desires tells us that man also needs 1) relationships with others, 2) a specific companion, and 3) a suitable helper.

What did the first man do in the garden where God placed him? He worked. From this passage we learn that work is good and purposeful. We also see that for the Christian, God intends for work to be worship. Finally, in order for Adam to demonstrate love for His Creator, God gives him a test. Love can only be real if one has a choice to love or not.

What will God do with the man He created? Put him in a garden. From this we see the provision of God, the plan of God, and the presence of God. In Eden, heaven met earth. Though the first man lost access to the garden, through Jesus Christ we enjoy fellowship with God once again.

This psalm teaches us something about worship, particularly coming into God's presence in worship. We learn from David's words that 1) God is always present; that 2) we must come into His presence; and 3) the church is where God is most present.