Autonomy as Sin

Mankind’s basic sin lies in the quest for autonomy. Correcting that problem constitutes reversing Eden. Aspiring to be like God showed itself in a perverse way when our first parents sought to decide right and wrong for themselves (Genesis 3:5). Everyone since then has followed their lead.

We do not have the right to assume that role, because “God has made us, not we ourselves” (Psalm 100:3), and he had purpose in creating us. So, ultimate self-determination cannot be our prerogative. But more than that, we are not constituted for it. When we assume that independence mentality, we both sin and fail. We sin against his privileged position, and we fail because we are dependent beings. Death tells us that in no uncertain terms.

For this reason, we observe the representations of the body and blood of the One who died for us. The significance of his main, final act lay in demonstrating that as a man his own intentions were not final. He was deferring to God’s will. It was his graphic way of setting aside autonomy.

We who fondly remember him today honor him best by following the lead of this replacement for Adam.