Christmas Connection Between Adam and Christ

Most people would turn to a New Testament Gospel chapter, such as Luke 2, and start with, “In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.” We expect to read about the angel Gabriel, Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, and the shepherds.

But how many of us would start the Christmas account in Genesis? Not many. But there is an important connection between Adam and Christ. Without a proper understanding of Adam and the events in Genesis 3, students may miss why Jesus needed to come.

God gave us the history of the first man, Adam, for a reason. Adam’s disobedience to God’s command in the garden of Eden brought sin, death, and God’s punishment. Only when students understand the dire condition of mankind, trapped in sin and separated from a holy God, can they fully appreciate the wonderful gift of Jesus.

The foundation of Genesis is essential, especially for the Christmas account. Genesis shows that the first Adam was the father of humanity. When he rebelled against God , sin and death entered God’s good creation (Genesis 3:19; Romans 5:12). In contrast, the last Adam, Jesus Christ, brought life and light to all men (John 1:4). He gives eternal life to those who receive him and believe in his name (John 1:12).

The first Adam experienced the judgment of God. He eventually died, and his body turned to dust. Because of his sin, death came upon all men: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

The last Adam, Jesus Christ, also experienced the judgment of God—not for his own sins (he was sinless) but for the sins of mankind. He died on the cross to bear the punishment we deserve for sin (1 Peter 3:18). But Jesus did not remain dead. On the third day, he rose again. He overcame the devil and the power of death (Hebrews 2:14–15).

This is the message of the baby born in Bethlehem. It started with the creation of a perfect world. Because of our sin in Adam, God promised a Savior (Genesis 3:15). God fulfilled his promise when Jesus stepped into history to redeem sinners (Galatians 4:4–5).

Why not make the connection between the first and last Adams for your students at Christmastime?