God's original intent.

So we have begun the epic adventure that will last 31 weeks.  "The Story" will take us through the major elements of The Bible.  It is my intent that everyone reading the book and listen to the sermons will gain a deeper understanding of Scripture.  

Our first week was actually about three weeks ago, but I want to get this blog caught up and then I will work diligently to stay up to date!  So this post will be from the story of Adam and Eve.  

It is important to read in the story of Adam and Eve that God's original intent was the way it was in the Garden of Eden.  Think about that for a moment:  Everything that Adam touched blossomed and grew!  There were no weeds and thistles.  Farmers in the heart of Iowa would love to have ground like that.  Also, there was no sin.  No broken relationships, no hurt, and no pain.  The best part?  Constant companionship with him.  Also, they would live forever.  The only stipulation?  DO NOT eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good & Evil.  Sounds easy?  It must not have been because Adam and Eve ate from the tree.  

Now the whole world groans because of the choice of these two people!  (Romans 8:19)

If I stop there, this would be a downer of a blog.  But, it is important to remember a couple of things:  first, remember that the idea of grace has always existed.  God could have killed the original characters.  But, he let them live.  He also protected them.  This is grace.  It was offered to the first people and it is still offered to us today!

Second, God's original intent suddenly became his final intent.  Because of love, he gave Adam and Eve the choice.  When they failed all subsequent generations, the human race entered into this epic adventure of redemption.  God's original intent sure sounds like heaven doesn't it.  God's original intent IS His final intent!