“And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever.”
Context: To understand Genesis 3:22, it’s important to consider the context. This verse is part of the account of the fall of humanity in the Garden of Eden. In Genesis 3, Adam and Eve, the first human beings, disobeyed God by eating the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, which God had commanded them not to eat.
God’s Assessment: In this verse, God makes a statement after Adam and Eve have eaten the forbidden fruit. He says, “Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil.” This statement reveals that by eating the fruit, Adam and Eve gained knowledge of good and evil, a capacity that was previously only possessed by God.
Implications: God’s statement implies that humans have become aware of morality and the ability to distinguish between good and evil. This newfound knowledge brought consequences for Adam and Eve, as they became aware of their own guilt and shame.
Tree of Life: In the latter part of the verse, God expresses concern that Adam and Eve, having acquired knowledge of good and evil, might also eat from the tree of life and live forever. The tree of life symbolizes eternal life, which was originally available to them. However, God wants to prevent them from eating from this tree in their fallen state, which would result in an eternal existence in a sinful state.
God’s Mercy: Despite the consequences of Adam and Eve’s disobedience, it’s important to note that God’s words in this verse also reveal His mercy and grace. By preventing Adam and Eve from eating from the tree of life, God spares them from an eternal existence in a fallen state. He has a plan for redemption and offers them the opportunity for restoration through future generations.
Jesus Christ: The consequences of the fall and humanity’s separation from God are addressed and ultimately rectified through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through His sacrificial death on the cross and subsequent resurrection, Jesus offers the gift of eternal life to all who believe in Him and accept Him as their Lord and Savior.
In summary, Genesis 3:22 reveals that after eating the forbidden fruit, Adam and Eve gained knowledge of good and evil. God’s concern was that they might also eat from the tree of life and live forever in their fallen state. However, God’s mercy is evident as He provides a plan for redemption through Jesus Christ, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him.
