Genesis 2:4-25: Life as God Intended It
For of all sad words of tongue or pen
The saddest are these: "It might have been!"
THESE WORDS TAKE on special significance when we consider life as God originally intended it. Genesis 2 still provides the basis for understanding who we were meant to be in relation to God, nature and each other. This narrative is different from the first in both content and style. It quickly moves from the world at large to the narrow stage of "a garden in the east." The literary style also changes significantly with its more colorful and detailed descriptions. Yet it continues to be history, rather than parable or myth, as it supplements the brief account of the creation of man and woman in 1:26-30.
Warming Up to God
Close your eyes and think of a lush tropical forest, gloriously scented and teeming with life. Drink in the beautiful world God made for his people. Allow thanksgiving to well up inside until you are a bubbling spring of praise for God.
Read Genesis 2:4-25. »
Discovering the Word
- The author describes the creation of man in what verse(s)?
- In what ways is his creation unique?
- What are we told about the garden God has prepared for Adam (vv. 8-14)?
- What responsibility, freedom and limitation does God give to the man (vv. 15-17)?
- How does Adam's name for his new partner reflect his appreciation of her (v. 23)?
- Explain in your own words what verse 24 teaches about marriage.
Applying the Word
- Note the social dimension of being created in the image of God (v. 18). What implications does this have for your relationships with other people?
- How has this passage helped you understand who you were created to be in relation to God, nature and other people?
Responding in Prayer
Thank your heavenly Father for making you in his image and likeness.
For Further Study
Genesis 1-11 by Andrew Louth