The Whole Counsel of God Genesis 3:9-24
Aug 28, 2023
A close reading of Genesis 3:9-24 explores God's probing question to humanity and Adam's fearful response. The talk traces blame-shifting, the serpent's curse, and the protoevangelium about the seed of the woman. It also covers consequences like pain in childbirth, toil of the ground, garments of skin, mortality, and the cherubim guarding the tree of life.
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The Serpent's Fall Explained
- The serpent is cursed and reduced from exaltation to death imagery, symbolizing a fall from glory.
- Fr. Stephen connects the curse to envy of humans and the devil's role as holder of death until Christ's victory.
Seed Of The Woman Foretells Christ
- The protoevangelium promises enmity between the serpent and the woman's seed, foreshadowing Christ.
- Fr. Stephen stresses the unusual phrasing "seed of the woman" as pointing to the virgin birth and Messianic victory.
Pain Multiplied In Childbearing
- Childbearing and related suffering become part of the woman's role after the Fall, implying increased danger and grief.
- Fr. Stephen clarifies this includes societal and existential pains, not just literal childbirth pain.
