“Adam and Eve were placed in the Garden by God, with certain stipulations. They passed their test and what we have now is a continuation of God’s plan for his children, the test as you call it. Satan’s role was minor and consistent with his continuing role as potential slave owner and tormentor of man whose days are numbered.”
My take is different than yours. I would argue that Adam and Eve did not pass the test, that being one of obedience. God’s love, however, prevailed and they were given the chance to live, love and procreate... thus fulfilling God’s plan of humankind on planet earth. The ongoing and continuing test for them and their progeny (that would be us)... is that same obedience to God’s word.
The fact that we have been inflicted with Satan and his minions and the temptations (and evil) which that presence represents... man being weak and easily tempted... required a further act of God to save us... that being Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
I would posit that Satan’s role was not minor then and is not minor now. It is a crucial part of the ongoing “test”.
Thank you for this very enjoyable discussion.
I would posit that Satan’s role was not minor then and is not minor now. It is a crucial part of the ongoing “test”.
I meant minor in the sense of him having any influence over the success of God’s plan and that includes Adam and Eve in the Garden where they faced conflicting questions of obedience. If you remember they were commanded to multiply and replenish the earth, and also not partake of the tree of knowledge for in the day they did they would surly die.
There were no children in the Garden indicating they were not able under their circumstances to comply with the command to multiply and replenish. Eve chose wisely knowing they could not be obedient to both commands and Adam in obedience to God chose to remain with his God given wife who having partaken of the fruit would be thrust out of the Garden.
...and yes thanks for the reasoned discussion.