Recently, I was studying in Romans 5 about the relationship between Grandfather Adam and our elder brother, Jesus. So many comparisons can be made between the two men. I just wanted to share some of my observations (and some made by commentators and members of my Wednesday night class)...
Both men are called "son of God" in Scripture.
Adam was the first man in all creation, Christ is the firstborn over all creation (Col.1:15)
Adam's partner (Eve) was birthed from his side in a deep sleep - Christ's bride (the church) was birthed from His side in the sleep of death (remember the Roman lance bringing forth blood and water? What are the elements of entrance into the church: blood and water.)
Adam was the first man to sin - Christ the first man to live a life without sin.
Adam was a thief who tried to steal eternal life in Paradise - Christ promised a thief eternal life in a place characterized as "Paradise."
Genesis speaks of being "the book of Adam" in Genesis 5 and Malachi ends with a curse - Matthew speaks of being "the book (or line) of Christ" and Revelation ends with the removal of a curse.
Scripture begins in a garden with Adam. Scripture ends in a garden city with Christ.
In the likeness of Adam's body, mankind dies (both physically and spiritually) - In the body of Christ, mankind is saved from spiritual death.
Just as Adam's sin gave rise to fallen humanity, so Christ's sinlessness gives rise to a righteous humanity.
In our physical likeness, all mankind resembles Adam. In the Christian's spiritual experience, he takes on the likeness of Christ.
Many more items could be added to these: please add your thoughts in the comment section.
Go and learn,
-Will