The Garden of God (1993)

In this deeply moving 1993 series, Brother Barry van Heerden explores the rich biblical imagery of gardens as they appear in God’s plan of redemption. From Eden’s perfection to Gethsemane’s anguish, from the intimacy of the Song of Solomon to the joy of resurrection morning, each class invites us to see God’s work of restoration unfolding through His Son, Jesus Christ. With warmth, insight, and reverence, the series draws us into the Scriptures to discover peace, beauty, and love at the heart of God’s purpose.

Eastward in Eden

The series opens with a journey back to the first garden, planted by God in Eden. Brother Barry reflects on its beauty, order, and the fellowship it represented between God and man. He considers the moment humanity was placed there, the blessings it held, and the tragic choice that led to exile. Yet even here, the promise of restoration begins to emerge, pointing forward to another garden where the curse would be reversed.

Eastward in Eden – Part 2

Continuing the exploration of Eden, this class uncovers the layers of meaning behind the garden’s location, design, and purpose. Brother Barry traces the theme of “eastward” throughout Scripture, showing how God continually works to bring His people back into His presence. The study encourages us to see Eden not as a lost paradise, but as a vision of what God is working to restore in Christ.

The Garden of Agony

In Gethsemane, we see the ultimate contrast to Eden. Here, the last Adam faces the full weight of temptation and sorrow, yet chooses obedience to the Father’s will. Brother Barry tenderly unfolds the scene of Christ’s anguish, the loneliness of His vigil, and the love that carried Him through. This garden becomes the turning point where sin is met with surrender, and death is set in motion to be overcome.

The Garden of Ecstasy

Resurrection morning breaks in the garden of Joseph of Arimathea, and the glory of the Lord is revealed in an empty tomb. Brother Barry paints the scene in vivid detail—Mary Magdalene’s tears turned to joy at hearing her name, angels announcing life where death had reigned, and the dawning of a new creation. This garden stands as the triumph of God’s mercy, grace, and forgiveness.

The Garden of Love

Drawing from the Song of Solomon, this class celebrates the beauty of marital love as God intended—intimate, tender, and rooted in peace. Brother Barry challenges cultural distortions and invites couples to bring the spirit of the Song into their relationships. In the “garden enclosed,” he sees a picture of the holiness, harmony, and joy that God desires for every marriage, reflecting His own love for His people.

Eden Restored

The series concludes with a vision of the future—when God’s purpose is complete, and Eden’s fellowship is fully restored. Brother Barry turns to Revelation’s promise of the tree of life, the river of water, and the presence of God with His people. This final garden is a place where sorrow, death, and separation are no more, and all creation rejoices in the peace of God’s kingdom.

This description has been generated by AI and lightly edited.