Did God Know Adam and Eve Would Sin After Creating Them?

Introduction to God's Creation Plan

No, God did not foresee Adam and Eve's sin from the outset. In fact, God's creation of angels predates the creation of Earth and humans. These celestial beings have lived for centuries, suggesting that God might have intended for humans to experience extended lifespans as well. Genesis 1:28-30 provides us with insight into God's creation plan and reflects an expectation that humans would live long lives and care for the earth, its plants, and animals.

Human Lifespan in Biblical Context

Genesis 1:28-30 outlines the roles and responsibilities that God bestowed upon Adam and Eve: "Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that moves on the ground. I have given you every plant on the face of the earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. It will be your food. And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds of the sky and all the creatures that move on the ground, everything that has the breath of life, I give all the green plants for food." This passage highlights the expectation that humans would live long lives and manage the earth according to God's intent.

The Current Contrast: Longevity of Animals and Trees

Today, it is evident that animals and trees do indeed live much longer than humans, not due to any flaw in God's creation, but as a result of the choices made by humanity. For example, the oldest animal ever recorded is a tortoise named Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise living on the island of Saint Helena, estimated to be at least 191 years old. Meanwhile, the oldest tree, Methuselah, a Great Basin bristlecone pine (Pinus longaeva), is 4853 years old. This tree predated the construction of the pyramids at Giza, demonstrating the immense age and resilience of some creatures on Earth.

Genesis 1:28-30: A Perfect Plan?

From Genesis 1:28-30, we can infer that God originally intended for humans to live long lives, care for plants and animals, and populate the earth. However, the current disparity between human and animal lifespans indicates a shift from this divine plan. This contrast can be attributed to sin and the consequences of choices made by individuals, rather than any flaw in God's creation. This aligns with the concept of free will, which allows humans to make choices that impact their lives and the world around them.

Free Will and the Need for Grace

God's purpose in providing free will is to see if humans would choose to love Him out of their own will. This freedom includes the potential to make poor choices, leading to sin and the need for a savior. Jesus, a perfect human, embodies this concept, being the only human who never sinned. His sinless nature underscores the value of God's redemptive plan through human sacrifice. God’s plan, while perfect, necessitates the imperfect nature of humanity, who are saved by one perfect sacrifice.

Conclusion

The story of Adam and Eve's sin reminds us that God created humans with the capacity for both good and evil. While God provides the option for free will and the chance to walk in His intended path, humanity often chooses differently. This choice requires humility and a recognition of the need for a savior, underscoring the Bible's message of grace and redemption. God's ultimate plan is perfect and involves imperfect people redeemed by the perfect sacrifice of Jesus.