These two passages are arguably the most pivotal in scripture. They offer a profound contrast between Eve representing the fall of humanity and Jesus, the victor and saviour of man. A study of these two will equip us to emulate Jesus’ example, empowering us to overcome the devil’s schemes. They guide us to replicate his response, enabling us to triumph over temptation. How was Christ victorious, and why did Adam and Eve fail?
Genesis 3:1-7
“Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God actually say, ‘You shall not eat of any tree in the garden’?” And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden, but God said, ‘You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.’” But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it, your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths.” NIV
Matthew 4:1-12
“Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and set him on a pinnacle of the temple, and saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee, and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.”
The following are my findings:
1. Speed of defeat vs resistance: Eve was defeated in one attempt; Jesus withstood three temptations.
2. Response style: Eve gave a “leading answer” that invited debate, while Jesus gave definitive answers rooted in Scripture (“It is written”).
3. Commitment to God’s word: Jesus showed unwavering commitment, quoting Scripture and rebuking Satan (“Get thee hence, Satan”). Eve didn’t lean fully into God’s command.
Additional observations:
At just 12, Jesus was fiercely committed to His Father’s mission (Luke 2:49)”And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” Many believers take longer to commit or remain lukewarm in their faith (Revelation 3:15-16)”I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” This lack of commitment can lead to spiritual stagnation and vulnerability to doubt and the devil’s influence.
Many Christians, despite knowing Scripture, struggle with firm commitment compared to Jesus’ resolve at a young age. This hesitation can hinder spiritual growth and lead to a lukewarm faith. Brother and sister, watch where you stand today, time is not on our side.
God bless you, and see you in our next article.