The Bible contrasts grace and law through the symbolism of two trees in Genesis: the tree of the knowledge of good and evil represents law and works, while the tree of life signifies grace and salvation through Christ.
The two trees in the Garden of Eden, the tree of the knowledge of good and evil and the tree of life, stand as profound symbols of law and grace. The tree of the knowledge of good and evil represents God's law and the principle of righteousness through works. God gave Adam one commandment concerning this tree, illustrating the futility of seeking righteousness through law. In contrast, the tree of life represents the grace of God, offering salvation through faith in Christ. This duality illustrates that humanity can only obtain true life and righteousness through the grace of God, rather than through their own efforts to obey the law. Thus, these two trees effectively draw the distinction between living under law, which leads to death, and living under grace, which grants eternal life.
Commentary