The writers and redactors of the story of The Fall of man which explains The Problem of Evil in Genesis present humankind's quest for knowledge as the chief reason behind disobedience, subsequent Fall, and alienation from the Garden of Eden, and fellowship with God.
This crosscutting theme – disobedience and alienation, we see embedded in the text in various forms. Examples includes the story of the Tower of Babel, the Exile from the Promised Land, and in the New Testament, the Parable of The Prodigal Son.
This theology or philosophy has a negative impact on Judeo – Christian thought. For instance, Jesus had to revise the story of the Prodigal Son to challenge this mindset. As such he concluded that the younger brother was accepted back into the community by a loving father who had in fact been longing for his son's return with open arms. Interestingly, the original story vindicated the older brother for his faithfulness and obedience.
Sadly, anyone who challenges 'mainstream' ideas is Exiled just like Adam and Eve from the community. This includes those who question doctrinal practices, rituals, or even the sociopolitical milieu. We see this with the prophets in the Old Testament.
I am inclined to believe that in a bid to move from a highly superstitious faith, the leaders after the Exile deviated from the notion of a God that does everything for his people, to one that works with them in fulfilling his purpose. One that uses the skills and talent he has given them to build and expand his kingdom on earth. Hence there are no accounts of supernatural interventions in their writing, rather, they demonstrated faith, discipline, focus and persistence.
I urge us to see knowledge as a force for good. Even evil ideas can be transformed with the light of God's love in us for good. I urge us to be bold, I urge us to stay hungry.
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