Study Guide: Doctrine of the Fall of Man

Use this study guide for deeper study of sermon preached on April 27, 2025.

The word “doctrine” refers to the body of teachings or beliefs that are considered authoritative and foundational to the Christian faith. These teachings are based on the Bible and help guide the beliefs and practices of Christ followers. Doctrines are essential for maintaining the integrity of the Christian faith and they help to ensure unity among believers because they reflect the core truths of Christianity.

The doctrine of the fall of man, as described in Genesis 3, is a pivotal event in human history, impacting the world and the relationship between God and humanity. When Adam and Eve chose to disobey God by eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, sin entered the world, and with it, death and separation from God. In Romans 5:12, Paul writes, “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.” The fall reveals the tragic consequences of sin, showing that our choices matter and that rebellion against God leads to brokenness, pain, and spiritual death. This event explains why the world is not as it should be, filled with suffering, sin, and death.

The fall of man is also significant because it highlights the need for redemption. With Adam’s sin, humanity lost its perfect relationship with God, and the world was never the same. However, even in the midst of this dark moment, God promised a Savior. In Genesis 3:15, God speaks of a future descendant of Eve who would “crush the serpent’s head”, a prophecy that was fulfilled in Jesus. The fall reminds us that without the fall, we would not fully grasp the depth of God's grace, and the immense sacrifice made through Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Without the reality of sin’s consequences, we would not fully appreciate the power of redemption and the grace that God offers us through Jesus.

Finally, the fall of man teaches us the importance of obedience to God and the devastating impact of sin in our lives. In Romans 3:23, Paul states, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” The fall serves as a warning to all humanity about the dangers of trusting in our own wisdom and opinions rather than trusting in God’s commands. It reminds us of our daily need for God's guidance and forgiveness. While the fall brought great loss, it also set the stage for God’s incredible plan of salvation. Understanding the fall of man helps us to see just how much we need a Savior and the incredible love God has for us, even in the midst of our sin.

Study Outline

Take some time to look up and read these verses in your Bible, highlight, or spend time reflecting as you read.

Key Scripture References

1. Genesis 2:15-17 – God's command regarding the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.

2. Genesis 3:1-7 – The temptation and disobedience of Adam and Eve.

3. Genesis 3:8-13 – Confrontation between God and Adam and Eve.

4. Genesis 3:14-19 – God's judgment and curses on the serpent, Eve, and Adam.

5. Genesis 3:21-24 – The expulsion from Eden and the provision of garments.

6. Romans 5:12-19 – Paul’s teaching on the spread of sin through Adam and redemption through Christ.

7. 1 Corinthians 15:21-22 – The contrast between death through Adam and life through Christ.

Key Themes and Lessons

1. Temptation and Sin

- The serpent (Satan) deceived Eve by distorting God's word (Genesis 3:1-5).

- Eve and Adam gave in to temptation by eating the forbidden fruit (Genesis 3:6-7).

- Sin often begins with doubt and disobedience.

2. Consequences of Sin

- Immediate shame and awareness of nakedness (Genesis 3:7).

- Fear and hiding from God (Genesis 3:8-10).

- Blame-shifting: Adam blamed Eve, and Eve blamed the serpent (Genesis 3:12-13).

3. God’s judgment

- The serpent was cursed (Genesis 3:14-15).

- Eve would experience increased pain in childbirth and relational struggles (Genesis 3:16).

- Adam was cursed with hard labor and eventual death (Genesis 3:17-19).

4. The Protoevangelium (First Gospel)

- Genesis 3:15 foreshadows the coming of Christ who would defeat Satan.

- The promise of redemption through the offspring of the woman (Jesus Christ).

5. Separation from God

- Adam and Eve were driven out of Eden (Genesis 3:23-24).

- Spiritual death and broken fellowship with God entered the world (Romans 5:12).

- Humanity’s need for salvation and reconciliation with God.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

The following questions can be used for personal reflection, small group discussions, Bible studies, or for journaling.

• What do you think was the biggest factor that led to Eve’s decision to eat the forbidden fruit?

• How do you see the effects of the Fall of Man in today’s world?

• Why do you think Adam and Eve tried to hide from God after their disobedience?

• How does the concept of original sin impact our understanding of human nature?

• What is the significance of Genesis 3:15 in relation to Jesus Christ?

• How can we apply the lessons from the Fall of Man to our daily lives?

• In what ways does the Fall of Man highlight the importance of obedience to God?

• How does knowing about the Fall help us appreciate the grace of God more deeply?