Introduction -- By: Anonymous

Journal: Christian Apologetics Journal
Volume: CAJ 12:2 (Fall 2014)
Article: Introduction
Author: Anonymous


Introduction

Were Adam and Eve real people who actually walked on earth in space–time history? Or, alternatively, were “Adam and Eve” names used as mere metaphors or symbols for early humanity? Our contributors to this issue of Christian Apologetics Journal examine the implications of various answers people have given to this crucial question.

When we accept the authority of the text of Scripture as it is written, we are impressed with how often Adam is referenced. Moses, the Chronicler, and Luke all list Adam in their genealogies as the fountainhead of the race (Gen. 5:1; 1Chron. 1:1; Luke 3:38). Job, certainly representing a very early tradition, mentions Adam who concealed his transgression (Job 31:33). A similar thought is reflected in the prophet Hosea who levels a charge against Israel and Judah of transgressing the covenant “like Adam” (Hos 6:7).

In addition to the Old Testament’s testimony, the New Testament writers support critically important doctrines by placing emphasis on the historicity of Adam. The Apostle Paul evidences no doubt when he connects Moses and Adam in the same sentence (Rom. 5:14), giving us an historical range of time in which sin reigned. He upholds the solidarity of the race in Adam to contrast the believer’s solidarity with Christ in this theologically loaded chapter of Romans.

And dare we forget the Apostle Paul’s comparison between the “first Adam” and the “last Adam” in 1Cor. 15:45? Just as Paul tethered the cause of death among humans to “a man,” so he reminds us that resurrection from the dead comes by means of “a man.” Who are these men? The next verse informs us clearly: “Adam” and “Christ” (1Cor. 15:21–22).

The Apostle Paul links church order to the sin of Adam and Eve (1Tim. 2:13–14). Jude reminds us of Enoch, “the seventh from Adam,” who preached about the Day of the Lord (Jude 14).

Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ appeals to the creation account in giving His teaching on marriage and divorce: “Have you not read that He who created them from the beginning made them male and female . . . ?” (Matt. 19:4).

And speaking of creation, some ...

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