The Fortunate Fall: Seeing Opposition as the Path Forward

Brothers and sisters, when we talk about the Fall, the world's narrative is almost always one of disaster. A sudden, catastrophic break from perfection. We tend to look at Eden and see only the thorns and thistles, the loss, the struggle. But as returned missionaries, and as disciples learning to live in the gospel, we know better. We know that even the deepest shadows point toward the brightest light.

It takes a little time, a little study, and a willingness to look at the material through the lens of the restored gospel—the lens of the Pearl of Great Price—to see the incredible truth: the Fall was not a mistake; it was a *fortunate* fall.

This week’s study, diving into Genesis 3–4 and Moses 4–5, really challenged my understanding of opposition. We are so focused on *avoiding* the adversary, on keeping our testimonies pristine, that sometimes we forget that the adversary’s very existence is what allows us to exercise the divine gift of agency. The Fall, in a sense, was the necessary transgression of a lower law (the commandment to multiply and replenish) to keep the higher law—the law of eternal progression and the promise of Christ's Atonement.

Agency and the Coats of Skins

One of the most profound takeaways for me was the symbolism of being clothed. When Adam and Eve were covered, it represented their nakedness, their vulnerability, and yes, the need for divine covering. This mirrors so beautifully the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He clothes us in grace, covering our failings and our moments of weakness. We don't have to be perfect to be worthy; we just have to be willing to accept the covering.

It’s easy to get caught up in the "secret combinations" of sin, like Cain’s tragedy, and feel overwhelmed by the weight of our own shortcomings. But the gospel doesn't leave us stranded in the wilderness. It points us forward. The Fall set man’s foot upon progression's highway, a path that requires us to be *unshaken*.

If you’re feeling the pressure of the "thorns and thistles" in your own life right now—a difficult relationship, a professional setback, a period of doubt—I invite you to reframe it. Don't see it as a curse; see it as the schoolmaster. See it as the place where the Atonement can do its most glorious work.

If you want to dig deeper into this incredible lesson on agency, transgression, and the path to exaltation, I highly recommend listening to the full episode of the podcast. It really unpacks the nuances of the "Fortunate Fall."

As we continue this journey as rogue disciples, remember that our calling is to be internet missionaries, disciples anywhere, all the time. If you have questions about how to apply the principles of agency to your current challenges—maybe you’re wrestling with a difficult doctrine or a tough conversation—I encourage you to bring those questions to Davee. He’s excellent at walking through the hard questions an investigator might ask, helping us sharpen our answers in preparation for those crucial missionary discussions.

For those of us looking to build our foundational knowledge, if you haven't already, check out the Book Club offerings in HolyPlaces. Sometimes, the best way to understand a grand concept like the Fall is to study the scriptures together with others.

What part of the Fall resonates most with you? Do you see a "thorns and thistles" moment in your life right now that you can view through the lens of Christ's covering? Share your insights in the comments below—let’s keep this conversation going!