Adam is a leader who failed in a crucial area - communication. Through his ineffective communication with his wife Eve, Adam did not adequately fulfill his role as the world's first spiritual leader. God told Adam very clearly that the tree of knowledge was off-limits to them (Genesis 2:15-17). At that moment Eve was not yet with Adam - in fact, she had not even been created yet. Later, Adam failed to clearly convey to Eve that this tree of knowledge was forbidden, and what the consequences would be if the command were disregarded. This lack of clarity is what leads to the fall. It's almost like the children's game of telephone. The serpent communicates the rule in a slightly altered form and adds an enticing temptation of its own (Genesis 3:1-5). The rest is history.
Five areas where Adam failed:
- Adam left out certain details when passing on the information.
- Adam gave Eve's voice more influence over his decision than God's voice.
- Adam failed to hold himself to the rule.
- Adam forgot what God had said about the consequences.
- Adam took no responsibility for his mistake.
The following questions help with reflection:
- What can be learned from this story?
- You may be a good speaker. But are you also a good communicator?
- Do you pay close attention to what God tells you?
- Do you take the details seriously?
- Do you hold yourself to them consistently?
- Do you make sure your listeners have clearly understood what you mean?
- Are you willing to take responsibility for what God has entrusted to you?