33. Consequences

Key Bible Verse: Therefore, as sin came into the world through one man, and death as the result of sin, so death spread to all men, [no one being able to stop it or to escape its power] because all men sinned. (Romans 5:12 - Amplified Bible)

One of my favorite movies is Searching for Bobby Fischer. The story is not about the Grandmaster, but, about a father’s relationship with his son. In supporting his son’s ability to learn how to play chess, he employs a famous Grandmaster (Bruce Pandolfini) to teach him. In one scene GM Pandolfini warns Josh (the son); “do not bring your queen out too early.” It can put that powerful piece in unnecessary grave danger early in the game. The consequence of not following the imperative can lead to destruction.  Here is an example of the White queen being brought out too early (Qd2). What does Black do to bring her down?

Scripture records that humans were created by God in his image (Genesis 1: 26, 27). When both Adam and Eve (the first humans) went against God’s instruction, the consequences distorted that image and caused a separation in their relationship with the Creator. Of course they wanted to blame their decision on someone else: Adam blamed Eve; and Eve blamed Satan. The truth is that they both used their own “free will” to go against God’s instructions. This separation is now passed down to every succeeding generation.

Can you remember a time when you tried to shift the blame to someone else in an effort to excuse your behavior of doing the opposite of what you were counseled to do? What were the consequences? Given the opportunity, what would you do differently?

My response: Lord, let me see, know, and pay attention to your warnings you have for me today. Help me be faithful with my relationship to you.

Thought to Apply: We believe that our first parents were created in a state of innocency, but by their disobedience they lost their purity and happiness, and that in consequence of their fall all men have become sinners, totally depraved, and as such are justly exposed to the wrath of God. (The Salvation Army Handbook of Doctrine, c. 2010, p. 109)