Chapter 2—The Fall of Man
I saw that the holy angels often visited the garden, and gave in-
struction to Adam and Eve concerning their employment, and also
taught them concerning the rebellion of Satan and his fall. The angels
warned them of Satan, and cautioned them not to separate from each
other in their employment, for they might be brought in contact with
this fallen foe. The angels enjoined upon them to closely follow the
directions God had given them, for in perfect obedience only were
they safe. And if they were obedient, this fallen foe could have no
power over them.
Satan commenced his work with Eve, to cause her to disobey. She
first erred in wandering from her husband, next, in lingering around
the forbidden tree, and next in listening to the voice of the tempter,
and even daring to doubt what God had said—In the day that thou
eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. She thought, Perhaps it does not
mean just as the Lord said. She ventured to disobey. She put forth her
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hand, took of the fruit, and ate. It was pleasing to the eye, and pleasant
to the taste. She was jealous that God had withheld from them what
was really for their good. She offered the fruit to her husband, thereby
tempting him. She related to Adam all that the serpent had said, and
expressed her astonishment that he had the power of speech.
I saw a sadness came over Adam’s countenance. He appeared
afraid and astonished. A struggle appeared to be going on in his mind.
He felt sure that this was the foe which they had been warned against,
and that his wife must die. They must be separated. His love for
Eve was strong. And in utter discouragement he resolved to share
her fate. He seized the fruit, and quickly ate it. Then Satan exulted.
He had rebelled in heaven, and had sympathizers who loved him, and
followed him in his rebellion. He fell, and caused others to fall with
him. And he had now tempted the woman to distrust God, to inquire
into his wisdom, and to seek to penetrate his all-wise plans. Satan
knew the woman would not fall alone. Adam, through his love for
Eve, disobeyed the command of God, and fell with her.
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