As I spent time this month considering Jesus and the work he did at Calvary, I was struck anew by the idea that Jesus was the “Second Adam.” While I had always thought of that concept in a general way, I never stopped to consider the full implications of this comparison. Since I was using the book of Mark as the basis for my study, I pulled out some specific examples Jesus demonstrated as God’s representative here on earth, and thought about them in the context of creation. Jesus demonstrated what God had intended man to be, but he also told us something about what the original design God had for life on earth. I share some with you for your consideration.
Why Jesus is the “Second Adam”
Most everyone knows who Adam was. He was the first human created by God, the founder of the human race. When we read the creation story in Genesis, we learn that Adam was created as a perfect, sinless reflection of God. As such, Adam was “a pattern of the one to come” (Romans 5:14). It was God’s intention to populate his newly created world with “children” made in his likeness, who would reflect the many aspects of God’s character. There was a perfect plan, and Adam had the starring role. Unfortunately, Adam was free to choose whether he would serve God as was intended, or go his own way and do as he pleased. We all know which he chose.
Jesus, too, took the form of a human and was Adam 2.0, so to speak. Jesus, too, was perfect at the start, but the difference is, he followed God’s plan perfectly, showing us what God had intended his children to do and be. Each of these perfect men did one thing that changed the world. Where Adam’s life established a sinful pattern, Jesus followed the same initial plan, but chose to obey God. The purpose of each perfect man was the same: to fulfill God’s plan for the world. Only Jesus succeeded.
Why Does it Matter to Me?
Because Jesus was perfect, and obedient to God’s will, he was able to represent all humankind when he paid the debt for sin at the cross. His was the perfect sacrifice that brought the human family back into the relationship God intended.
How Jesus Showed God’s Plan for the World
Through Jesus the world was separated into the natural family and the spiritual family of God. Through Jesus, we can inherit grace and peace, in Adam only sin and chaos. But what was the rest of God’s original plan for earth? I believe, reflected in the life of Jesus, is the original will of God for his world. Here are some examples of that plan:
No sickness Over and over, Jesus healed the sick and restored people to a healthy state. No hunger We have 2 examples of Jesus feeding large groups of people using a tiny amount of food and multiplying it so there was plenty for all. No tears Not only did Jesus wipe away the tears of families with sick and dead members, but the book of Revelation states that all tears will be wiped away in heaven. Controlled Weather Conditions Jesus calmed storms and controlled the weather.
Correct teaching/ a true knowledge of God (Mark 1:22) Jesus made God’s thoughts and message clear to people (he was even called “the Word” in John’s gospel). He taught his followers about God so they could show him to others. Jesus continually replaced traditions with truth (Mark 7:6). Perfect communion with God Jesus prayed continually. He sought God’s direction and help in all he did. Humans all one big family Jesus considered all people to be part of his family (Mark 3:32). No one was “lesser” or discriminated against. No temptations to do wrong The Devil tempted both Adams, but Jesus resisted, trusting in the word of God. He also cast out demons several times, freeing people from demonic influences. Peace would reign When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, he told the people he was a King bringing peace, not a conqueror seizing power. (This was the symbolism of the day. Conquering kings rode in on horses.) All mankind would have a servant’s heart As an example to us, Jesus performed the lowest task of a servant in the households of his day (John 13:3-5). He did this to show we aren’t here to serve ourselves and make ourselves happy, but rather to be available to help others. No Death Death came into the world as a result of sin. But death was conquered when Jesus rose from the dead on our behalf. During his ministry years he also raised others from the dead. (Mark 16:5-7) Perfect love I think the beautiful world intended by God is summed up perfectly in Mark 29 30-31: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”
Conclusions
Romans 5:17-18, For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ. Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men.
From Adam we received judgement, sin and death. From Jesus, the Second Adam, we received righteousness, justification and eternal life.
We all still have the same choice as both Adams: “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve;...but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”