• John Lenschow

The First Promise of Hope in the Bible

His Coming Anticipated

Day 1-Sunday, November, 29th

Genesis 3:14-15, emphasis on Genesis 3:15

1. Recognize the Context:

Previous context:

Genesis 1 describes the creation of the universe and everything in it. Chapter 2 then concentrates on the creation of humans, both male and female. Humanity existed in harmony with their Creator, one another, and the entire created order. In chapter 3, we learn Adam and Eve surrendered to the serpent’s temptation. In an instant, everything changed because the first couple disobeyed God's explicit instructions. Their Creator became their Judge. Verses 14-19 outline the consequences of this rebellion for all parties involved, including the serpent, the woman, and the man. The ramifications of this event not only impacted them but subsequent history.

2. Read the Scripture: Genesis 3:14-15, emphasis on verse 15


3. Reflect on the Scripture:

Genesis 3:15 might initially appear like an odd place to begin the journey of Advent. Verse 15 is the continuation of the serpent's penalty for its participation in this rebellious act. On the one hand, we can understand the pronouncement against this reptile on a zoological level (verse 14).

However, in verse 15, more appears to be going on. With the serpent’s prominent role in deceiving the first couple, the announcements of enmity, and the promised attempt at mutual destruction between the serpent and woman’s offspring (seed), it appears something more sinister is at work. However, God did not leave humanity in despair. Genesis 3:15 provides the first promise of hope.

The remainder of Genesis develops the story of the woman’s seed, who would bring about a reversal of humanity’s situation. In the context of Genesis 3-5, the seed refers to Eve’s offspring, specifically Seth and his descendants. This is traced through Abraham’s lineage, including Isaac and Jacob. The remainder of the Old Testament develops God's plan to restore all humanity through one family and nation. The goal was that all the nations of the earth would be blessed (Genesis 12:1-3).

David, a king anointed by God by the prophet Samuel, led the people of Israel (Abraham’s offspring). Israel, including David and his descendants, struggled to follow God with their whole hearts. God sent prophets to call the people back to himself. These prophets warned of coming judgment for Israel’s rebellion, but they also promised the coming of the Messiah (“anointed one”), who would lead and deliver his people.

In the New Testament, Luke’s genealogy (3:23-38) demonstrates Jesus was the ultimate offspring of the woman in the line of David, Abraham, Seth, and Adam. Through his birth, life, death, resurrection, ascension, and imminent return, Christ would defeat the power of sin and death, including everything the serpent represented and fostered back in the garden.

4. Relate to life:


To pray:

Today as you begin this journey of Advent, prayerfully consider how God has initiated the fulfillment of this promise of hope in Jesus the Messiah from Genesis 3.

Today, prayerfully consider the character of God revealed in Genesis 3.

Today, prayerfully consider the character of humanity in Genesis 3.

Today, prayerfully reflect on the difference this makes for our world today, both now and in the future?

To do: (actions from faith always with the Holy Spirit’s help)



Read and study Romans 16:19-20. Notice how Paul alluded to the Genesis 3:15 promise and guaranteed its fulfillment.

Read and study Revelation 12 and 20 and see how John made allusions back to the Genesis 3 story. Notice how these chapters relate to the fulfillment of the Genesis 3:15 promise.

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