by Erik Jones

The first piece of information we receive after Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden of Eden is the conception and birth of their first child. After giving birth, Eve named her son Cain (which means “acquired”) and is recorded as saying: “I have gotten a man from the LORD.”

Here are two points to consider:

• Some believe that the act of sex is what corrupted Adam and Eve and led to their “fall.” Those who believe this typically see sex as a sin. The Bible is clear that sex within marriage (Adam and Eve were married) was the will of God. Very early in the Genesis record God decreed that married couples were to “be fruitful and multiply” ( Genesis 1:28 ) and that a husband and wife were to “joined” as “one flesh” ( Genesis 2:24 ), which includes the concept of sexual relations between a husband and wife.
• Though commentators debate about what Eve meant by saying of Cain, “I have acquired a man from the LORD,” if we read it just on the surface level, it appears that Eve is acknowledging the fact that children are a blessing from God. According to many scriptures, this is how we are to view children ( Psalm 127:3-5 ).

To learn about the Bible’s approach to children and child rearing, read “Practical Tips for Positive Parenting.”

Tomorrow on the Daily Bible Verse Blog: “The Two Brothers.”