Genesis 3: Group Study Handout

Overview

Genesis chapter 3 recounts the moment of humanity's disobedience to God, often referred to as the Fall. The chapter begins with the serpent tempting Eve by questioning God's command not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Eve, persuaded by the serpent's cunning words, eats the fruit and also gives it to Adam, who willingly eats as well.

Key verse

“Yahweh God said, “Behold, the man has become like one of us, knowing good and evil. Now, lest he reach out his hand, and also take of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever—”

Genesis 3:22 (WEB)

Outline

1. Genesis 3:1–5 The Temptation of Eve
2. Genesis 3:6–7 The First Disobedience
3. Genesis 3:8–10 Hiding from God
4. Genesis 3:11–13 The Confrontation
5. Genesis 3:14–19 The Consequences Declared
6. Genesis 3:20–21 The Naming of Eve
7. Genesis 3:22–24 Expulsion from Eden

Discussion questions

1. In v6, what does Eve see that persuades her to eat the fruit?
2. In vv. 12-13, how do Adam and Eve respond to God's questions about their actions?
3. The serpent's claim in v5: how does it challenge God's authority and knowledge?
4. God's question to Adam in v11: what is implied about knowledge and responsibility?
5. When have you felt exposed and tried to hide from others like Adam and Eve?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Genesis 3: Genesis 2, Romans 16, 2 Corinthians 11.

Before next time: read Genesis 4.