The phrase "men upon the earth" refers to humanity as created by God and living within the earthly realm. This concept is foundational in the biblical narrative, beginning with the creation account in Genesis and extending throughout Scripture.

Creation of Man

The Bible begins with the creation of man in Genesis 1:26-27 : "Then God said, 'Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness, to rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, and over all the earth itself and every creature that crawls upon it.' So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." This passage highlights the unique status of humanity, created in the image of God, and entrusted with dominion over the earth.

The Fall and Its Consequences

The fall of man, as described in Genesis 3, marks a pivotal moment for men upon the earth. Adam and Eve's disobedience led to sin entering the world, resulting in a curse upon the ground and a life of toil and hardship for humanity. Genesis 3:17-19 states, "To Adam He said, 'Because you have listened to the voice of your wife and have eaten from the tree of which I commanded you not to eat, cursed is the ground because of you; through toil you will eat of it all the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it will yield for you, and you will eat the plants of the field. By the sweat of your brow you will eat your bread, until you return to the ground, because out of it you were taken; for dust you are, and to dust you shall return.'"

The Role of Men in God's Plan

Throughout the Bible, men upon the earth are seen as participants in God's redemptive plan. From the patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to the kings such as David and Solomon, and the prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah, men are called to fulfill God's purposes. In the New Testament, the role of men is further emphasized through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, who is referred to as the "Son of Man" (Matthew 8:20), highlighting His identification with humanity.

Moral and Spiritual Responsibilities

Men upon the earth are called to live according to God's commandments and to pursue righteousness. Ecclesiastes 12:13 summarizes this duty: "When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind." The New Testament reiterates this call to holiness and love, as seen in 1 Peter 1:15-16 : "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'"

Eternal Perspective

The Bible presents an eternal perspective for men upon the earth, emphasizing the transient nature of earthly life and the hope of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. James 4:14 reminds believers of life's brevity: "You do not even know what will happen tomorrow! What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." Yet, through Christ, men are offered the promise of eternal life, as stated in John 3:16 : "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Conclusion

The biblical narrative of men upon the earth encompasses creation, fall, redemption, and the hope of eternal life. Men are called to live in obedience to God, fulfilling their roles within His divine plan, and looking forward to the promise of eternity with Him.