Scripture wastes no time in revealing the ugliness of sin and its tragic effects upon mankind.
In the early chapters of Genesis, we see clearly just how deeply and profoundly sin impacts us.
Sin should cause shame.
· After Adam and Eve ate from the tree of which they were commanded not to eat, they immediately felt shame.
· Gen. 3:7 – they realized they were naked and thus fashioned themselves some clothes
· The experience of shame is actually a good thing when our conscience is working as it should. We were designed by God to be ashamed of our participation in sin. The biggest problem arises when we have seared our conscience (1 Tim. 4:2) and are no longer able to blush or feel shame (cf. Jer. 6:15; 8:12).
· The good news is we don’t have to live with our shame! Thanks to the atoning work of Jesus, our sins can be forgiven and forgotten – no need to carry our shame!
Sin should cause fear.
· Adam and Eve were in fear of what the Lord would do now that they had disobeyed His commandment.
· Gen. 3:10 – they hid because they were afraid of how God would react to their sin
· Our sin brings about the fear of death and judgment (Heb. 2:15; Rev. 6:15-17).
· The good news is we don’t have to live in fear! Thanks to the atoning work of Jesus, we can be assured of our salvation and know that Heaven is our home (1 John 2:28-29; 5:13, 18)!
Sin causes separation.
· Adam and Eve went from enjoying paradise in the presence of God to being kicked out of the Garden of Eden because of their sin.
· Gen. 3:23-24; 4:16 – sin was quickly followed by removal from God’s presence
· Our sin brings about separation from our God (Isa. 59:2).
· The good news is we don’t have to live separated from the Lord. Thanks to the atoning work of Jesus, we can be reconciled to our God (Rom. 5:11)!
Sin often leads to escalation.
· Adam and Eve, Cain and Able, even the man known as Lamech saw their situations spiral out of control after their initial sins and lack of faith.
· Gen. 3:6; 4:23-24 – sins of pride and jealousy spiraled into violence
· When we sin, it is often the case that one thing leads to another and before we know it, we find ourselves in an unrecognizable (and terrifying) position.
· The good news is we don’t have to remain in this agonizing position. Thanks to the atoning work of Jesus, we can be restored to our place of peace and joy (1 Pet. 5:10)!
Sin is terrible and painful, but God’s grace is greater. Let us give thanks for the blessings that are ours in Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 2:14).
