Summary: The Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil was a test of man’s obedience to God.

Discussion: John 4:23 (NKJV), “But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him.” God could have created Adam and Eve to have no free will. They could have been like robots and always do exactly what God said. But God didn’t do this. 

God wanted people to appreciate love, righteousness and justice. He wanted people to understand that only through obedience to Him could people live in peace and harmony. Thus, God put the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil in the Garden to test Adam’s and Eve’s obedience. Would they obey Him under all circumstances? Or would they be curious about sin and disobedience? Would sin always be a temptation? 

Adam sinned because he had no experience with sin and its consequences. Therefore, Adam and all mankind are now experiencing the direct consequences of sin of death. This is giving humanity invaluable lessons. In the future kingdom on earth when all are taught righteousness after being raised from the dead, people will remember the pain and suffering which result from sin. Most will learn to prefer obedience.

At the end of Christ’s 1,000-year reign on earth, Satan will try to tempt and deceive mankind again. But the results of this trial will be very different. Most people will love God and will totally reject sin. They will have learned to love our wonderful Father in heaven of their own free will. Then Revelation 21:4 will be fulfilled, “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” 

Additional Resources:
Many have dismissed the existence of God because they could not understand why He would allow evil to prosper. In this wonderful booklet the biblical answer reveals a wisdom and justice that is fitting of a God worthy of our praise: 
Download PDF: “Why God Permits Evil”

Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1208: “Do We Really Have Free Will?”
Understanding the power of free will and why we have it
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes

For children, parents and Bible class teachers:
Animated video: “Why didn’t God stop Satan from tempting Eve?”