Teachings from Genesis: Understanding Human Nature, the Consequences of Sin, and the Church’s Role in Restoration

Teachings About Human Beings from the Genesis Stories of Creation

1. Created in the Image of God: Human beings are made in the image and likeness of God, which signifies their inherent dignity and value.
2. Authority Over Creation: Humans are given dominion and authority over all of God’s creation, reflecting their role as stewards of the earth.
3. Fellowship with God: They have the ability to communicate and fellowship with God, indicating a special relationship between humanity and the divine.
4. Special Creatures: Human beings are considered unique and special among God’s creations, highlighting their significance in the created order.
5. Ability to Reason: They possess the capacity to think, reason, and make moral choices, including the choice to sin.
6. Divine Blessing: Humans are blessed by God, which includes the potential for prosperity and fulfillment in their lives.
7. Garden of Eden: They are provided a special place to live—the Garden of Eden—emphasizing a divine provision and intended harmony with creation.

Effects of Sin on Adam and Eve

1. Mortality: They began to die, despite being created to live forever.
2. Fear of God: They experienced fear and tried to hide from God when He called to them.
3. Loss of Authority: They lost their dominion over creation as a consequence of their disobedience.
4. Inequality: The relationship between man and woman was altered, resulting in man ruling over woman.
5. Pain in Childbirth: The woman was destined to experience pain during childbirth as a result of sin.
6. Enmity with the Serpent: A new hostility developed between humanity and the serpent, symbolizing the ongoing struggle with evil.
7. Embarrassment: They felt ashamed of their nakedness, leading to a loss of innocence.
8. Expulsion: They were expelled from the Garden of Eden, signifying separation from God’s presence and blessings.
9. Mistrust: Sin led to a breakdown of trust between man and woman, affecting their relationship.

How the Church Helps Bring Back Fallen Members

1. Visitation: Church members may visit or invite those who have fallen away to their homes, fostering connections and support.
2. Forgiveness and Patience: The church practices forgiveness and shows patience towards those who have strayed from the faith.
3. Preaching and Teaching: They engage in preaching and teaching to remind individuals of the faith and its tenets.
4. Encouragement to Confess: The church encourages fallen members to confess their sins, promoting healing and reconciliation.
5. Guidance and Counseling: Pastoral care is provided through guidance and counseling to help individuals navigate their faith journey.
6. Prayer: The church prays for those who have fallen away, seeking divine intervention and restoration.
7. Material Support: Assistance is offered to those in need, showcasing the church’s commitment to the well-being of its members.