For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous (Romans 5:19).
When Adam was created, he existed in innocence, knowing only good because everything God created was good (Genesis 1:31). God entrusted Adam with authority over His creation, effectively making him the steward of this world. Along with this authority, God provided Adam with specific instructions, of which notably, was to not eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, which was in the midst of the garden.
God clearly warned Adam of the consequences of eating of the tree: “…for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die” (Genesis 2:17). Adam, nonetheless, disobeyed God and ate of the forbidden tree. This act of disobedience constituted treason against God, and as a result, Adam forfeited his authority to Satan, who then became the god of this world.
But God, in His infinite mercy and wisdom, had a plan for redemption. He sent another Adam—the second and last Adam—Jesus Christ: “…The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven” (1 Corinthians 15:45 & 47). Recall what we read in our opening scripture; the Lord Jesus Christ, through His perfect obedience and sacrificial death on the cross, restored the broken relationship between God and humanity.
Jesus’ obedience countered Adam’s disobedience, offering justification and eternal life to all who believe in Him. Therefore, through Jesus Christ, God’s plan for redemption and righteousness was fulfilled. No wonder He declared in John 14:6, “I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life: no man comes to the Father, but by me.” He is the eternal salvation. Hallelujah!
Prayer / Confession
Dear Father, I’m eternally grateful for the redemption you’ve provided through the obedience of Jesus Christ. Thank you for what His vicarious sacrifice and His glorious resurrection have ushered us into. I’m the expression of your grace, love, and righteousness, living out the incorruptible, imperishable, impregnable life in Christ. Amen.
Further study
1 Corinthians 15:22; Romans 5:12-17; Hebrews 5:8-9
1-year bible reading plan
2 Corinthians 11:1-15; Proverbs 29-31
2-year bible reading plan
2 Thessalonians 3:11-18; Jeremiah 29
