God's First Messages To Man (Part 2) - Zac Poonen
Forty Messages From Genesis Chapters 1 To 11
Summary
The speaker draws two primary lessons from Genesis chapters 2 and 3. First, God desires fellowship with man before any work or sacrifice, citing Mary and Martha to illustrate that ministry efforts are secondary to a relationship with God. Second, the breath of God, which gave Adam life, is analogous to the Holy Spirit, which is what truly distinguishes a believer from mere humanity or from other Christians.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
God wants you to fellowship with him firstGod rested on the seventh day, which was man's first day, teaching that fellowship with God must take priority over any amount of work or service.Genesis 2:2
Only the breath of God makes you different from animalsPhysical similarities do not define humanity; it is the breath of God, the Holy Spirit, that lifts believers above animalistic drives and fallen human nature.Genesis 2:7
Only through testing can you become holyGod placed the tree of the knowledge of good and evil as a test of obedience, proving that holiness cannot be attained without choosing to say no to what God forbids.Genesis 2:17
God wants husband and wife to be one as head and bodyEve was taken from Adam's side to picture a head-and-body union, warning husbands to lead properly and protect their homes rather than letting wives dictate spiritual direction.Genesis 2:18
Satan questions God's wordThe serpent's oldest tactic is to make people doubt the absolute truth of God's word and minimize the severe consequences of sin.Genesis 3:1
Satan questions God's loveBy withholding certain things or allowing trials, Satan tempts believers to doubt God's goodness and love.
Beware of what your bodily senses feel attracted towardsBelievers must discipline their natural bodily appetites and desires so that created things do not usurp the place of the Creator.
God takes the initiative to look for youEven when humanity hides in shame and sin, God takes the first step to search for and track down His people.Genesis 3:9
Don't blame other people for your sinAdam deflected blame onto his wife and God instead of repenting, a dangerous habit that breaks fellowship and opens the door to the enemy.
God is on your side against SatanGod's earliest pronouncements and provision of garments of skin demonstrate that He is firmly on the side of His people and will ultimately crush Satan's head.
