Leading up to Christmas, we will examine human history in the light of three trees: the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, the Tree of Life, and the cross of Christ. Today, we’re in the garden of Eden. Next week, we’ll be in the garden environment of the New Jerusalem. On Christmas Eve, we’ll consider the cross of Christ—where, after His betrayal in the garden of Gethsemane, He “bore our sins in His own body on the tree,” (1 Peter 2:24)—and why the Christmas tree has tried to usurp it.

I. Perfection

II. Plunge

III. Penalty

IV. Prediction

Talk with God: In the midst of this season’s busyness, be intentional to make time to “[walk] in the garden” (Genesis 3:8) with the Lord each day through prayer and the Word.

Talk with others: Ask a friend who may be hurting this season how you can lock shields with them in prayer and acts of service.

Talk with kids: What are some ways we can worship Jesus?