In this sermon titled "The Lord God Formed Man," Tom Harding explores the creation of humanity as described in Genesis 2:4-7, emphasizing the doctrine of original sin and federal headship. He argues that God, not man, is the creator of life, forming Adam from dust and breathing into him the breath of life, thus establishing humanity's reliance on divine grace. By referencing Romans 5, Harding highlights the contrast between the first Adam, whose disobedience brought sin and death, and Christ, the second Adam, whose obedience secures life and righteousness for believers. This sets the foundation for Reformed doctrines regarding total depravity and unconditional election, asserting that all humanity exists in either Adam or Christ, with profound implications for salvation. The practical significance lies in understanding one's identity and standing before God, underscoring the necessity of grace for regeneration.
Key Quotes
“The man did not make himself. He was not a self-made man, was he? The Lord God made man out of the dirt."
“We're raised up from the guilt of sin in the same manner in which we fell, only in a different man.”
“In Adam, all died; in Christ, shall all be made alive.”
“This planting of the Lord, and the Lord planting those plants and trees in the garden, is a picture of what God does in our heart.”
The Bible teaches that God formed man from dust and breathed life into him, making him a living soul (Genesis 2:7).
According to the Bible, specifically in Genesis 2:7, God created man by forming him from the dust of the ground and then breathing into his nostrils the breath of life. This act signifies that God is the sole Creator, and man is entirely dependent on Him for existence. The Hebrew word for man, 'Adam,' reflects this connection to the ground or dust, emphasizing our origins and humanity's frailty. Moreover, this unique formation from dust illustrates God's personal involvement in humanity's creation, setting mankind apart from all other creatures.
Genesis 2:7
The doctrine of original sin is supported by Scripture, stating that through one man's disobedience, sin entered the world (Romans 5:12).
Original sin is a fundamental doctrine in Reformed theology, asserting that all humanity is implicated in Adam's transgression. Romans 5:12 clearly states, 'Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.' This verse emphasizes that through Adam's disobedience, sin and death were transmitted to all his descendants, affirming the concept that everyone is born with a sinful nature. This doctrine underscores our need for salvation through Christ, the second Adam, who rectifies the fall of the first Adam.
Romans 5:12
The second Adam, Jesus Christ, is essential because He brings life and salvation, countering the death caused by the first Adam (Romans 5:19).
The concept of the second Adam is crucial in Reformed theology as it establishes Jesus Christ as the representative figure who restores what was lost through the first Adam’s sin. In Romans 5:19, it states, 'For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.' This highlights the redemptive work of Christ. As the second Adam, He not only overcomes the curse of sin and death but also offers righteousness and eternal life to His people. This doctrine assures Christians of their hope in Christ as the basis for salvation, emphasizing that our relationship with God is restored through His obedience.
Romans 5:19, 1 Corinthians 15:22
Creating man in His image signifies the unique dignity, purpose, and relationship humanity has with God (Genesis 1:26-27).
The doctrine that man is created in the image of God, found in Genesis 1:26-27, reveals the profound nature of humanity. This concept implies that humans possess intrinsic worth, reflecting God's attributes such as rationality, morality, and the capacity for relationship. Being made in God's image also grants humanity a unique role as stewards over creation. It distinguishes human beings from the rest of creation, establishing a special connection between God and humanity. This relationship underscores the call to live in a manner that honors our Creator and fulfills the divine purpose for our existence.
Genesis 1:26-27
Salvation is viewed as an act of God's sovereign grace, where He chooses and regenerates believers according to His divine purpose (Ephesians 1:4-5).
In Reformed theology, salvation is fundamentally understood through the lens of God's sovereignty. The belief that God elects individuals for salvation reflects His grace and mercy in action, as detailed in Ephesians 1:4-5, which states, 'According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world.' This illustrates that God, in His sovereignty, is the primary actor in our redemption, not dependent on human actions or decisions. Furthermore, salvation is viewed as a gift that cannot be earned; it is solely through Christ's obedience and work. Emphasizing God’s sovereignty in salvation fosters a deeper appreciation for grace and humbles believers in recognition of their complete reliance on God’s mercy.
Ephesians 1:4-5
Comments
Your comment has been submitted and is awaiting moderation. Once approved, it will appear on this page.
Be the first to comment!