Garden of Eden (Gen 2-3): God-planted paradise; Adam/Eve given choice (tree of knowledge); Satan tempts Eve (shiny serpent); sin enters, ruins perfection, curses with thorns/toil/death; inherited sin nature affects all (Rom 5:12; Ps 51:5)
Garden Tomb (John 19-20): Near Golgotha; Jesus crucified, buried in new tomb; Mary Magdalene finds empty tomb, sees angels/Jesus; contrasts Eden—sin forgiven, death conquered, reconciliation, angels invite entry
Jesus wears thorns (curse for us); historical evidence (Josephus, eyewitnesses)
Salvation: Admit sin, need Savior, accept Jesus (not religion, but relationship); public altar call for commitment
Altar Call & Response
Invitation to receive Christ (forgiveness, heaven); many respond publicly (front, overflows)
Group sinner's prayer led by pastor
Bibles distributed (children's/adult; online via text)
Angels rejoice; baptisms Wed (not required for salvation)