Genesis 3:5

"For God knows that in the day you eat of it, your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, knowing good and evil."

Study Bible

For God knows that in the day you eat of it
This phrase is part of the serpent's temptation to Eve, suggesting that God is withholding something beneficial. The serpent implies that God’s prohibition is not for protection but to prevent humans from reaching their full potential. This reflects a common theme in Scripture where temptation often involves questioning God's motives (Genesis 3:1). The phrase "in the day you eat of it" indicates immediacy, suggesting that the consequences of disobedience would be swift. This aligns with the biblical principle that sin leads to immediate spiritual death, even if physical death is delayed (Romans 6:23).

your eyes will be opened
The promise of opened eyes suggests enlightenment or gaining new understanding. In biblical terms, "eyes being opened" often refers to gaining insight or revelation (2 Kings 6:17). However, the serpent's promise is deceptive; while Adam and Eve's eyes were indeed opened, it was to their own nakedness and shame (Genesis 3:7). This contrasts with the true enlightenment that comes from God, as seen in Ephesians 1:18, where Paul prays for the eyes of believers' hearts to be enlightened.

and you will be like God
The desire to be like God is a central theme in this temptation. It reflects the pride and ambition that led to Satan's own fall (Isaiah 14:14). The irony is that humans were already made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), but the serpent twists this truth, suggesting that disobedience would elevate them to God's level. This foreshadows humanity's ongoing struggle with pride and the desire for autonomy from God, which is addressed throughout Scripture (Philippians 2:6-8).

knowing good and evil
The knowledge of good and evil represents moral discernment and autonomy. Before the fall, Adam and Eve lived in a state of innocence, relying on God for moral guidance. The serpent's temptation suggests that they could independently determine right from wrong, a role reserved for God alone (Deuteronomy 30:15-20). This phrase also points to the broader biblical narrative of humanity's need for redemption and the ultimate restoration of moral order through Christ, who perfectly embodies the knowledge of good and evil (Hebrews 5:14).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Serpent
A cunning creature used by Satan to tempt Eve. The serpent's role is pivotal in the fall of man, as it questions God's command and introduces doubt.

2. Eve
The first woman, created by God as a companion for Adam. She is deceived by the serpent and eats the forbidden fruit, leading to the fall.

3. Adam
The first man, created by God. He follows Eve in eating the fruit, resulting in the entrance of sin into the world.

4. The Garden of Eden
The perfect paradise where Adam and Eve lived before the fall. It represents the ideal state of communion with God.

5. The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil
The specific tree in the Garden of Eden from which God commanded Adam and Eve not to eat. Eating its fruit led to the awareness of sin.

Teaching Points

The Nature of Temptation
Temptation often involves questioning God's word and promises. The serpent's words to Eve illustrate how doubt can lead to disobedience.

Desire for Autonomy
The temptation to "be like God" reflects a desire for independence from God's authority. This desire is at the heart of many sins.

Consequences of Sin
The fall of Adam and Eve shows that sin leads to separation from God and has far-reaching consequences for humanity.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands is crucial for maintaining a right relationship with Him. Disobedience leads to spiritual and physical death.

The Role of Deception
Satan is a deceiver, and believers must be vigilant and grounded in truth to resist his lies.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the serpent's question in Genesis 3:5 challenge the authority and character of God, and how can we apply this understanding to recognize similar challenges in our lives today?

2. In what ways does the desire to "be like God" manifest in contemporary society, and how can Christians guard against this temptation?

3. How does the account of the fall in Genesis 3:5 relate to the concept of original sin, and what implications does this have for our understanding of human nature?

4. What strategies can we employ to resist deception and remain obedient to God's word, as illustrated by the events in Genesis 3?

5. How do the consequences of Adam and Eve's disobedience in Genesis 3:5 inform our understanding of the need for redemption through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:16-17
This passage provides the command from God not to eat from the tree, setting the stage for the temptation and fall.

2 Corinthians 11:3
Paul references Eve's deception by the serpent, warning believers about being led astray from pure devotion to Christ.

Romans 5:12-19
Paul discusses how sin entered the world through one man, Adam, and contrasts it with the redemption brought by Christ.

Revelation 12:9
Identifies the serpent as Satan, the deceiver of the whole world, linking the Genesis account to the broader spiritual battle.