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God Works in Mysterious Ways (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAdam's mind was actively fixed on Eve, on pleasing her. He knew it was wrong but he went ahead because his mind was on Eve and pleasing her, rather than on God. This shows how quickly the carnal nature acts.
God Works in Marvelous Ways (Part Two)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWhen Satan began his conversation with Eve, he quickly mentioned God, saying, "Has God indeed said." This mention of God was strategic, as it helped trigger a rebellion against God by challenging His authority directly in front of Eve. Satan's approach exploited a vulnerability within Eve's heart, where there was already a slight indication of resentment towards her Leader. This resentment, a part of human carnality, was natural and contributed to her decision to go against God's instruction. Satan's mention of God irritated Eve, pushing her to test God's command for herself, ultimately leading her to sin.

Who Fulfills the Azazel Goat—Satan or Christ? (Part Two)
'Ready Answer' by David C. GrabbeIn Genesis 3:17, God identifies the trigger of Adam's sin as heeding the voice of his wife. Similarly, our sin may begin with heeding the voice of another, such as Satan, but he is not the author of our sin, just as Eve was not the author of Adam's sin. Though Adam and Eve played the blame game, God did not accept their excuses. If we hold to the justification that Satan is the real cause of our sins, we are trying to dodge reality, just as they did. When we sin, it is not because Satan authors it, but because we allow ourselves to be drawn away by our own desires. The responsibility to choose life belongs to the individual, and God holds each person accountable for their own actions.
Genesis 3:17-19: Consequences for Adam
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAdam sinned, having abdicated his leadership position. His posterity has been cursed with overwhelming toil just to stay ahead. We are perfected by hardship.