Search

Type your text, and hit enter to search:
Close This site uses cookies. If you continue to use the site you agree to this. For more details please see our cookies policy.

Adam's Accession

CoE-FiB GoM6 38 ADAM'S ACCESSI
God on Monday
Read previous
 
‘The Lord God formed every animal of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to the man to see what
he would call them; and whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name’

Genesis 2.4b-9, 15-end (vs. 19).
 

Reflection
Theological reflection on Adam tends to focus on his role as the progenitor of humanity and of sin. But is this the key objective of the story? If so, why does it include reference to humans that are apparently unrelated to Adam, such as the people Cain feared (Gen 4.14-15), and why does it have Eve (rather than Adam) committing the first sin (Gen 3.6)?

Plausible explanations aside, part of the author’s intention seems to have been to show Adam acceding to the three-fold role of prophet, priest and king. This is apparent in the verse above; until this point, God has spoken, acted and ruled directly, without an intermediary. It is also evident in Adam taking up residence in a garden that is part of a larger domain - in ancient Near Eastern culture this arrangement signifies kingship (cf Neh 3.15; Eccles 2.4-5; Jer 39.4 and 52.7).

It is quite astonishing what is going on here. Adam, we are told, is made from something as lowly, lifeless and unpromising as the dust of the earth. Yet once animated with God’s breath, God elevates him to a place of honour and authority in creation. The reader is invited to witness an accession - God’s investiture of Adam both as God’s agent and as God's regent over creation.

Response
As human beings, we share not only in Adam’s fall but in his prophetic, priestly and kingly role. Consider what implications this has for your work this week.

Prayer
Almighty God, you sent your Son as the Second Adam to fulfil to perfection the role of prophet, priest and king in your plan of redemption. Help us in our daily lives to follow Christ in speaking your word, doing your works and judging with your wisdom.

This Week's Author

Peter S Heslam, Director of Faith in Business
Peter Heslam

Read next

God on Monday is produced in partnership with the Church of England. The reflections are based on the scriptural readings designated for the next Sunday in the Church's lectionary. You can sign up here to receive each God on Monday instalment.

Feel free to share these reflections with your contacts via email and social media.
Glenys
Hello and welcome to Faith in Business. We hope you enjoy getting to know us!
Click here to see more.

 

Get involved with Faith in Business


Partner

 

Stimulating and resourcing the business world for over 30 years


Faith in Business’ vision is of business as a force for good, transforming society in a way that expresses the kingdom of God. We encourage and equip Christian business people to be faithful followers of Jesus Christ in a demanding workplace context. With an eye on the future, we are especially committed to serving young business leaders.

Faith in Business is active on many fronts. We run an annual retreat, co-publish a quarterly journal, host a monthly webinar, provide topical weekly reflections and facilitate a business prayer network. As a volunteer-led organisation, we'd love you to get involved with us and there are a number of ways you can do this: