What Was the Original Relationship Between Humans and God?
Before sin entered the world, the relationship between humans and God was marked by harmony, intimacy, trust, and purpose. The opening chapters of Genesis describe a world where humanity lived in perfect fellowship with its Creator, reflecting His image and enjoying His blessings. Understanding this original relationship helps us appreciate both humanity’s dignity and the tragic impact of the fall.
1. A Relationship of Intimacy and Fellowship
One of the most remarkable aspects of Eden is the closeness between God and humanity.
1.1. God Directly Communed with Humans
Genesis describes God interacting personally with Adam and Eve. Although the text does not specify every detail, it strongly implies a close presence:
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God spoke directly to Adam (Genesis 2:16–17).
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God walked in the garden (Genesis 3:8), indicating His presence was tangible.
This suggests a relationship free of fear, guilt, or distance.
1.2. No Barriers Between God and Humans
Before sin, there was no separation:
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No shame
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No distrust
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No alienation
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No spiritual blindness
Humans were at peace with God, living openly before Him.
2. A Relationship of Trust and Obedience
God gave Adam a clear command regarding the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:16–17). This command established a boundary, but also created an opportunity for trust.
2.1. Obedience Was Natural, Not Burdensome
In the original state, obedience was an expression of love and trust, not obligation.
Humans gladly submitted to God’s authority because:
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His character was good
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His instructions were clear
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His presence was comforting
2.2. Trust Was Central
Humanity trusted God for:
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wisdom
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purpose
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provision
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identity
The command not to eat from one tree was not restrictive—it was relational. It reminded humans they were dependent on God for moral knowledge and direction.
3. A Relationship of Provision and Blessing
God is first seen blessing humans before giving them any instructions (Genesis 1:28). This shows that the relationship began with grace.
3.1. God Provided Everything Needed for Life
In Genesis 1–2, God gives humans:
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food (Genesis 1:29)
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meaningful work (Genesis 2:15)
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companionship (Genesis 2:22)
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a beautiful home (the garden)
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purpose and direction
God’s generosity formed the foundation of the relationship. Humanity lacked nothing.
3.2. Humanity Enjoyed God’s Rest
After God rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2–3), humans entered into that rest.
This symbolizes a life of peace, completeness, and harmony with God.
4. A Relationship of Identity and Purpose
Humans were created intentionally and uniquely.
4.1. Created in God’s Image
Being made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26–27) established an identity rooted in dignity.
Humans were:
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representatives of God
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reflections of His character
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rulers under His authority
4.2. Given Dominion and Stewardship
God entrusted humanity with ruling the earth (Genesis 1:28).
This responsibility expressed:
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God’s trust in humans
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humanity’s partnership with God
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a shared mission to cultivate creation
Their purpose flowed from their relationship with God.
5. A Relationship of Innocence and Purity
Before sin, Adam and Eve were described as:
“naked and not ashamed” (Genesis 2:25)
This indicates:
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no guilt
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no corruption
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no fear
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no hiddenness
Their hearts were pure, and their relationship with God was marked by openness and joy.
5.1. Innocence Meant Clear Fellowship
Humanity approached God freely and without hesitation.
They had nothing to hide.
6. A Relationship of Partnership in Creation
God invited humans into His creative work.
6.1. Adam Names the Animals
In Genesis 2:19–20, God brings creatures to Adam to be named.
This shows:
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collaboration
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shared authority
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a relational partnership
6.2. Humans Worked Alongside God’s Purposes
Tending the garden (Genesis 2:15) was a continuation of God’s creative ordering.
Humans participated in expanding the beauty and order God began.
7. A Relationship Designed for Eternity
The garden contained the tree of life (Genesis 2:9).
As long as humans lived in obedience and fellowship with God, they had access to ongoing life.
7.1. God Intended an Eternal Relationship
Death entered only after sin (Genesis 3:19).
Originally, humans were created to live eternally with God in intimate fellowship.
Conclusion: A Relationship of Perfect Harmony
The original relationship between humans and God was:
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Intimate – God’s presence was experienced directly.
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Trusting – obedience flowed easily from confidence in God.
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Generous – God provided abundantly for humanity’s needs.
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Purposeful – humans reflected God’s image and shared His work.
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Pure – no sin or shame clouded the relationship.
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Eternal – humans were meant to enjoy unbroken fellowship with God forever.
This perfect relationship forms the backdrop for understanding the tragedy of the fall—and the beauty of God’s plan of redemption, which seeks to restore what was lost.