In between the two unique bookend garden settings we see God’s amazing love for the man He created; the Garden of Eden in Genesis 2:8-17 to the ultimate paradise setting at the end of Revelation (Revelation 22:1-2).

The former is underlined by man’s rejection of God’s way and under the deception of Satan opted to build a city (Genesis 4:17-24; Genesis 11:2-9). The city was the representation of the anti-God culture.^*Culled from United Church of God
 
Many have sought to define the city. Each definition shows the variety of aspects through which people evaluate a city. From a Christian perspective, Harvie Conn and Manuel Ortiz defined the city as “a relatively large, dense and socially heterogeneous center of integrative social power, capable of preserving, changing and interpreting human culture both for and against God’s divine purpose” (Conn and Ortiz 2001, 233). Conn and Ortiz note the culture-shaping aspect of the city and add a theological dimension by noting the purpose of cities. ^*Culled from Radius Global Cities Network

The language of Genesis 11:2-9 with its striking similarity to Isaiah 14:13-14 betrays the genius behind man’s rebellion, the creation of a man-based religious system, where man believes he can be independent of His creator. As the Lord’s plan is revealed in Ephesians 1:10, Satan’s rebellion is to do the same with man as spoken to in Psalm 2:1-2 and Revelation 16:13-14.

The latter, Revelation 22:1-2, presents a spiritual atmosphere underscored by our Heavenly Father’s incredible desire to reconcile humanity to Himself through Jesus Christ.

In the pivotal in-between garden of Scripture called Gethsemane His resolve here in Jerusalem’s shadow established God’s offer to man to move forward with hope to enter the final garden setting. Jesus’ great decision in Gethsemane ultimately reopens the door to what God initially desired at the original Eden for all—a personal relationship with Him. Here, Jesus, the “last Adam” (1 Corinthians 15:45), reversed the first Adam’s errant example by crying out: “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me, nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will” (Mark 14:36).

This verbal commitment was made real just hours later as He was crucified and then lay dead for three days so that we might live forever. It’s with this steady focus that, despite the horrific agony of His scourging and crucifixion, He visualized the “joy that was set before Him” (Hebrews 12:2). ^*Culled from United Church of God

Being able to see, understand and run to Jesus is the only way to avoid the trap Satan has sprung in the multiplicity of schemes set in motion by Satan using the fallen gods to bring man under his control. What you do with what you hear will determine where you will end up, with God or with Satan in Hell. The choice is yours. Selah.

Pastor Afolabi Oladele