Context of Genesis 3:21

This verse comes immediately after the fall of Adam and Eve. The act of eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil symbolizes humanity's disobedience to God, leading to their awareness of sin and shame. Genesis 3:21 marks a pivotal moment where God shows compassion by providing clothing for them.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry suggests that the clothing made by God signifies both a physical covering for Adam and Eve's newfound shame and a representation of God's merciful provision in light of their sin. It points to God's initiative in addressing human needs and the foreshadowing of Christ's righteousness covering believers.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes that the skins used for garments indicate the first shedding of blood due to sin, hinting at the sacrificial system that would later be established. It underlines the reality that something innocent must die to cover the sin of the guilty.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke explains that the garments signify a transition from innocence to a recognized state of sinfulness. He highlights that this act of clothing them is God's recognition of human vulnerability and the need for comfort and dignity even in judgment.

Theological Significance

Genesis 3:21 encapsulates profound theological themes:

• Divine Provision: God provides for Adam and Eve's immediate needs despite their disobedience.
• Grace in Judgment: God's actions illustrate grace; though they sinned, He did not abandon them but instead covered their shame.
• Foreshadowing Redemption: The garments serve as a type pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who would cover our sins with His righteousness.

Cross-References Related to Genesis 3:21

This verse connects to several other scriptures that reinforce its themes:

• Romans 3:23-24: Speaks of all having sinned yet being justified freely by God’s grace.
• Hebrews 9:22: Notes that without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins.
• 1 Peter 2:24: Refers to Christ bearing our sins on the tree, highlighting the sacrificial aspect seen in Genesis 3:21.
• Isaiah 61:10: Talks about God clothing us with garments of salvation and a robe of righteousness.
• Galatians 3:27: Discusses how all baptized into Christ have put on Christ, signifying spiritual covering.
• 2 Corinthians 5:21: Describes Christ becoming sin for us, offering us His righteousness.
• Genesis 4:21: Mention of garments again in the context of human creativity post-Eden, tying back to the original divine provision.

Thematic Connections

The connections between Genesis 3:21 and other Biblical texts demonstrate a rich inter-Biblical dialogue:

• Sin and Covering: The theme of covering sin can be seen throughout scripture, especially in the sacrificial system.
• The Character of God: The Lord’s actions reflect His justice and mercy, a duality found repeatedly in scripture.
• Redemptive History: The narrative of God providing covering leads ultimately to the theme of redemption found in the New Testament.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

To explore these connections further, consider using a Bible concordance or a Bible cross-reference guide to identify themes, imagery, and interwoven narratives.

Cross-reference Bible study helps in understanding how different scriptures dialogue with one another, revealing a unified message throughout the Biblical canon.

Conclusion

Genesis 3:21 provides a profound foundation for understanding divine grace, judgment, and provision amidst sin. The interplay of its themes not only offers a historical lesson but also invites contemporary believers to reflect on their own need for God's redeeming love and righteousness.