O.T.

Survey Genesis 3

Genesis 3 functions as the turning point in the early chapters of Scripture. After the
order, beauty, and harmony of Genesis 1–2, the chapter introduces the crisis that
shapes the entire biblical story. The chapter explains why the world no longer
reflects the perfection of Eden and why human beings struggle with sin, guilt, fear,
and death. The narrative also reveals God’s grace in the midst of failure. Even
though Adam and Eve fall into rebellion, God continues to act with kindness,
patience, and promise. Following the structure of your provided document, this
narrative presents Genesis 3 section by section, showing how each part contributes
to our understanding of sin, judgment, and divine grace.

I. Canonical and Literary Placement of Genesis 3

Genesis 3 stands in deliberate contrast to Genesis 1–2. The first two chapters
describe God’s creation as good, ordered, and complete. Humans live in fellowship
with God. They enjoy meaningful work, freedom, and perfect communion. Genesis 3
interrupts this harmony and introduces a crisis that affects all of Scripture and all of
humanity.

This chapter explains the origin of the human condition: why people rebel, why
relationships break, and why suffering exists. It also prepares the reader for the rest
of the biblical storyline. Israel’s later history, the covenant promises, and the coming
of Christ all arise from the problem first described here. Genesis 3 does not simply
tell a story about the first sin. It establishes the framework for understanding
redemption, judgment, and the need for grace.

II. The Serpent and the Question of Evil

The narrative introduces the serpent without explaining its origin, which indicates
that evil already exists in the background. The serpent is described as “subtil” or
crafty. The Hebrew word ‘ārûm means clever or shrewd. This word is intentionally
linked to the description of Adam and Eve as “naked” (‘ărummîm) at the end of
Genesis 2. The similarity highlights a contrast: the humans are innocent and
exposed, while the serpent is calculating and deceptive.

The serpent does not force Adam or Eve into rebellion. Instead, it works through
words—reframing God’s command and challenging God’s character. This shows that
evil often enters through persuasion rather than physical pressure. The narrative
emphasizes that the fall is not caused by accident or ignorance; it is the result of a
deliberate choice to trust another voice over God’s.

God’s grace is already implied here. The humans are vulnerable, yet God has given
them His word to protect them. Grace begins with God revealing truth before
deception ever enters the garden.
III. The Hermeneutics of Temptation (3:1–5)
The serpent introduces temptation by questioning what God said: “Hath God
said…?” The goal is to create doubt about God’s instructions. Once doubt is planted,
God’s generosity appears less obvious. The serpent reframes God as restrictive
rather than gracious.

Eve responds by repeating the command but adds, “neither shall ye touch it,” which
God did not say. This addition reveals uncertainty and indicates that the serpent’s
strategy is already working. Temptation deepens when the serpent denies the
consequence of sin: “Ye shall not surely die.” This is the first direct contradiction of
God in Scripture.

The serpent finally offers a false promise: “Ye shall be as gods.” The temptation
appeals to human desire for independence. The serpent presents a vision of life
where humans define good and evil for themselves rather than receive their identity
from God.

Grace appears here in contrast. God gave clear boundaries not to limit human joy
but to protect it. His commands reveal His kindness. The serpent’s distortion
highlights the need for God to preserve His people through truth.

IV. Anthropology and Human Decision (3:6)

Genesis 3:6 describes Eve’s decision with careful detail. She sees that the tree is
“good for food,” “pleasant to the eyes,” and “desired to make one wise.” The Hebrew
word for desired, ḥāmad, refers to strong longing. Her evaluation is based on sight,
emotion, and ambition rather than trust in God’s word.

Adam also eats, not out of deception, but from his own choice. Together, they turn
from God. This moment reveals the complexity of human rebellion. Sin is not simply
breaking a rule; it is choosing independence over relationship.

This section highlights human vulnerability and the need for divine grace. The will is
not strong enough to remain faithful on its own. Grace becomes the means by which
God will later restore and uphold the human heart.

V. The Immediate Aftermath of Sin (3:7–13)

After eating the fruit, Adam and Eve experience shame for the first time. Their
awareness of nakedness changes from innocence to discomfort. They attempt to
cover themselves with fig leaves—an early picture of human attempts to deal with
guilt. These coverings cannot restore their relationship with God.

When God approaches, Adam and Eve hide. Fear replaces fellowship. They avoid the
God who created them, showing the relational damage caused by sin. God calls out,
 “Where art thou?” The question is not for information, but for restoration. God
moves toward the sinners while they retreat from Him. This is grace in action.
God asks questions that lead Adam and Eve to face their actions. Yet instead of
confessing, Adam blames Eve, and Eve blames the serpent. Their unwillingness to
accept responsibility shows the depth of the fall. Still, God does not abandon them.
His continued engagement demonstrates patience and compassion.

VI. Divine Inquiry and Judgment (3:14–19)

God addresses each participant in the fall. His judgments are serious and reveal how
far-reaching the consequences of sin are. But each judgment also contains signs of
grace.

The serpent receives a curse and a future of humiliation. More importantly, God
announces conflict between the serpent and the woman and between their
offspring. This includes the first gospel promise (Genesis 3:15): a future descendant
will defeat the serpent. This promise comes before any repentance, showing grace
that acts before humans respond.

The woman’s judgment includes increased pain in childbirth and challenges in

human relationships. Yet childbirth continues, ensuring the future generation and
the coming Redeemer.

The man’s judgment affects his labor. Work will now involve difficulty because the
ground is cursed. Yet work itself remains a calling. God allows life to continue
despite sin.

Death is introduced as the final consequence. Humanity will return to the dust.
While painful, death prevents permanent separation from God in a sinful condition.
Even here, grace is present in the form of limitation and protection.

VII. The Protoevangelium and Theological Trajectory (3:15)

Genesis 3:15 stands at the center of the chapter’s message. God promises that a child
from the woman will one day crush the serpent’s head. This becomes the foundation
for the rest of Scripture’s story. The promise connects to the covenant with
Abraham, the rise of Israel, the Davidic kingship, and ultimately Christ.

Grace shines brightest here. God promises redemption before Adam and Eve ask for
it, and before any change appears in their hearts. Salvation begins with God’s
promise, not human initiative.

VIII. The Garments of Skin (3:21)

God replaces the fragile fig leaves with garments made of animal skin. This action
carries deep meaning. God provides the covering Himself, showing that human
 attempts to remove shame are insufficient. A life is given so that Adam and Eve may
be clothed, pointing to the idea of sacrifice.

This moment introduces the principle that God must cover sin. Grace acts to restore
dignity and protect humanity. God cares for Adam and Eve even as they face
judgment.

IX. Expulsion and Protection (3:22–24)

God sends Adam and Eve out of the garden. Exile is a form of judgment, yet it also
protects them from eating the tree of life and living forever in a fallen state. The
presence of cherubim and a flaming sword indicates that access to God requires
mediation.

This prepares the way for Israel’s sacrificial system and, ultimately, Christ. Grace
remains present in the form of protection, future hope, and the promise of restored
access.

Reflection
1. How does Genesis 3 explain the brokenness of the world we live in today?
2. In what ways does God show grace even as He announces judgment?
3. What does the promise in Genesis 3:15 reveal about God’s long-term plan for
humanity?
4. Why do Adam and Eve hide, and how does God’s response show His character?
5. How does God’s provision of garments help us understand the nature of grace?

Short Assessment
1. Describe how the serpent’s strategy in Genesis 3 challenges trust in God’s character.
2. Explain why Adam and Eve’s fig leaves are inadequate solutions for sin.
3. What is the meaning of the promise found in Genesis 3:15?
4. Why is the expulsion from Eden both judgment and protection?
5. How does each major section of Genesis 3 reveal a different aspect of God’s grace?a