MPV Commentary

The Temptation.

1. The serpent was the instrument used by Satan to bring about the fall of humanity. Although Moses does not mention this wicked spirit in his account, the New Testament reveals that Satan was the mastermind behind the plot (John 8:44; 2 Corinthians 11:3; 1 John 3:8; 1 Timothy 2:14; Revelation 20:2). The serpent's cunning nature is evident from its reputation for wisdom (Matthew 10:16).

Initially, serpents were likely more beautiful and intelligent than they are today. The tempter used the serpent as a tool to deceive Adam and Eve because there was no principle of evil within them to work upon. As in Jesus' temptation experience (Matthew 4:3), the devil could not assume human form, so he employed an inferior creature for his vile purpose.

The serpent's role was to address Eve specifically, taking advantage of her vulnerability due to her limited experience and isolation from Adam. Although sinless and holy, she was a free agent susceptible to temptation.

The tempter questioned God's command, insinuating that it was unfair or mistaken: "Has God really said...?" He presented himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14), offering to guide her in understanding the divine will. Eve received him as a heavenly messenger because she believed he was sent on that errand.

2. The woman replied, "We may eat from the fruit of the trees in the garden." In her answer, Eve emphasized their freedom to roam and enjoy all the trees except one, with no doubt about the prohibition or penalty. However, it seems she had already been influenced by a negative impression, as she used the phrase "lest you die" instead of "you shall surely die" (Genesis 2:17). The tempter seized this opportunity to become bolder in his assertions.

4. The serpent assured Eve that they would not die from eating the forbidden fruit but would actually benefit from it.

5. He promised, "Your eyes will be opened." In one sense, her eyes were indeed opened, as she gained a dire experience of good and evil – the happiness of a holy condition and the misery of sin. However, the tempter concealed this outcome from Eve, who was driven by a desire for knowledge and thought only of rising to the level of her angelic visitors.