Biblical Typology: Adam
While writing to the Romans (Romans 5:12-21) and the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 15:45-49), Paul points out the typology of Adam and Jesus. In Romans 5:14, he states that Adam is "a type of the one who was to come" which he clarifies in the next verse as being Jesus Christ.
In following Paul's example of typology, we can make additional observations that show us more evidence of Christ within the text of the Old Testament. Doing so, we can also look at the similarities of Adam's Bride (Eve) with Jesus' Bride (the Church).
This topic gives us what is probably the best example of both Internal and External Typology. Let's take a look!
Paul's Points (Internal Typology)
- Adam is the First Man, Jesus is the Second Man/Last Adam (man born without sin)
- Adam is from dust, Jesus is from Heaven
- Death came by Adam, Life comes by Jesus
- Adam represents Natural Life, Jesus represents Spiritual Life
The message here is that through Jesus, we can all have eternal life, both naturally and spiritually like Jesus. Adam represents the failings of sinful humanity, and Jesus represents the way in which we can be restored to an incorruptible body and eternal spirit.
Additional Points (External Typology)
Following Paul's example of types, and Jesus' command to look for Him in the Old Testament (Luke 24:44), we can observe many more similarities. Here are some, can you find others?
- Both were born without sin (first fruits)
- Both were put to sleep to give life to their bride
- Adam's bride (Eve) was presented to him without sin
- Jesus' bride (Church) will be presented to Him without sin
- Both become one with their bride
- Adam became one in the body (flesh) with Eve
- Jesus will become one in the spirit with the Church
- Jesus will regain all that Adam lost and more
- The perfect image of God
- Eternal life (body and spirit)
- Shamelessness
- Dominion over creation
