1 When man began to multiply on the face of the land and daughters were born to them,
2 the sons of God saw that the daughters of man were attractive. And they took as their wives any they chose.
3 Then the Lord said, “My Spirit shall not abide in man forever, for he is flesh: his days shall be 120 years.”
4 There were giants in the earth in those days, and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto the daughters of men, and they bare children to them, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown.
5 The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
6 And the Lord regretted that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart.
7 So the Lord said, “I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the land, man and animals and creeping things and birds of the heavens, for I am sorry that I have made them.”
8 But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.
9 These are the generations of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his generation. Noah walked with God.
10 These are the generations of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his generation. Noah walked with God.
11 Now the earth was corrupt in God’s sight, and the earth was filled with violence.
12 And God saw the earth, and behold, it was corrupt, for all flesh had corrupted their way on the earth.
13 And God said to Noah, “I have determined to make an end of all flesh, for the earth is filled with violence through them. Behold, I will destroy them with the earth.
14 Make yourself an ark of gopher wood.
15 This is how you are to make it: the length of the ark three hundred cubits, its breadth fifty cubits, and its height thirty cubits.
16 Make a roof for the ark, and finish it to a cubit above, and set the door of the ark in its side. Make it with lower, second, and third decks.
17 For behold, I will bring a flood of waters upon the earth to destroy all flesh in which is the breath of life under heaven. Everything that is on the earth shall die.
18 But I will establish my covenant with you, and you shall come into the ark, you, your sons, your wife, and your sons’ wives with you.
19 And of every living thing of all flesh, you shall bring two of every sort into the ark to keep them alive with you. They shall be male and female.
20 Of the birds according to their kinds, and of the animals according to their kinds, of every creeping thing of the ground, according to its kind, two of every sort shall come in to you to keep them alive.
21 And you shall take for yourself of all food that is eaten, and you shall gather it to yourself, and it shall be food for you and for them.
22 Noah did this; he did all that God commanded him.
The True Meaning of Genesis 6
This passage from the book of Genesis was written by Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelites. He recounts the events leading up to the devastating flood that wiped out much of humanity, a pivotal moment in the early history of God’s chosen people. Mankind’s rapid moral decline will provoke the Lord’s sorrow and lead to the decision to start anew as we delve into this chapter. We’ll learn about the righteous Noah, chosen by God to preserve the human race and usher in a new era. The stage is set for one of the Bible’s most dramatic and transformative events, a story that echoes throughout Scripture, from the book of Isaiah to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
The chapter opens by describing the widespread wickedness that had consumed the earth, leading God to lament the creation of humanity. Yet, amidst this darkness, a glimmer of hope emerges in the form of Noah, a man who “found favor in the eyes of the Lord” (Genesis 6:8). Noah’s story reminds us of the importance of obedience, faith, and the power of God to redeem even in the face of overwhelming evil as we follow it.
Genesis 6:1-4
The passage in Genesis 6:1-4 delves into the time when the sons of God intermingled with the daughters of men, resulting in a peculiar offspring known as the Nephilim. This section has been a subject of much debate and speculation over the years, as it raises questions about the identity of the “sons of God” and the nature of the Nephilim.
The phrase “sons of God” has led to various interpretations among scholars and theologians. Some believe that these entities were fallen angels who rebelled against God by intermingling with humans. This interpretation aligns with themes of spiritual warfare and the consequences of disobedience, as seen in other parts of the Bible. Others propose that the “sons of God” were descendants of Seth, who intermarried with the ungodly lineage of Cain, thus leading to the corruption of the human gene pool. This view emphasizes the importance of maintaining purity and obedience to God’s commands.
The mention of the Nephilim adds a layer of mystery to this passage. These beings are described as mighty men of old, men of renown, suggesting that they possessed exceptional strength and abilities. The presence of the Nephilim on Earth could signify a disruption in the natural order of creation, prompting God’s subsequent decision to bring about the flood to cleanse the world of wickedness.
The story of the Nephilim serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of straying from God’s will and mixing with those who do not share the same faith and values. It underscores the importance of maintaining spiritual integrity and discernment in relationships and associations. Additionally, it highlights the enduring battle between good and evil, emphasizing the need for vigilance and adherence to God’s laws.
The narrative in Genesis 6:1-4 sets the stage for the events leading up to the Great Flood, where God’s judgment is poured out on a world corrupted by sin and disobedience. This catastrophic event serves as a pivotal moment in the history of humanity, illustrating God’s righteousness and mercy in dealing with wickedness. It also foreshadows the ultimate redemption and renewal that will come through the saving grace of Jesus Christ, who offers a way of salvation for all who believe. We see echoes of similar themes in the New Testament when connecting this passage to other parts of the Bible. For instance, the concept of spiritual warfare and the need to guard against the influence of evil forces is reiterated in Ephesians 6:12, where believers are encouraged to put on the whole armor of God to stand against the schemes of the devil. The consequences of sin and the importance of repentance are also emphasized in Romans 6:23, which states that the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. These parallels underscore the timeless relevance of the story of the Nephilim and its lessons for believers today.
Genesis 6:5-8
Several key sections in Genesis 6:5-8 provide insight into the state of humanity at that time and God’s response to it.
The first section, “The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time” (Genesis 6:5), sets the stage for the unfolding events. This verse highlights the pervasive wickedness that had consumed humanity to the point where their thoughts and intentions were continually evil. This profound corruption had infected every aspect of human life, signifying a drastic deviation from the way God intended humans to live. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and succumbing to sin. This verse also underscores the importance of the condition of the heart and how it can impact one’s actions and ultimately, one’s relationship with God.
The second section, “The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled” (Genesis 6:6), reveals the Lord’s reaction to the rampant wickedness. This declaration of God’s regret and sorrow showcases the depths of His love and compassion for His creation, despite their disobedience and sin. It demonstrates God’s emotional investment in humanity and His desire for them to live righteously. This verse also speaks to the notion of divine disappointment and serves as a powerful testament to the complexities of God’s relationship with His people.
The third section, “So the Lord said, ‘I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them.’ But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord” (Genesis 6:7-8), introduces Noah as a beacon of righteousness amidst the prevailing wickedness. God’s decision to spare Noah and his family from the impending judgment showcases the importance of faithfulness and obedience in the eyes of the Lord. Noah’s favor with God serves as a stark contrast to the rest of humanity and emphasizes the significance of living a life pleasing to God even in the midst of widespread corruption.
The account of Noah and the flood highlights themes of judgment, mercy, and redemption, reaffirming God’s sovereignty and His unwavering commitment to His people. It serves as a profound illustration of the consequences of sin and the importance of remaining faithful to God even in the face of adversity. The story of Noah also foreshadows the ultimate redemption and salvation that would come through Jesus Christ, reinforcing the idea of God’s plan for reconciliation and restoration for all who believe in Him. We reflect on Genesis 6:5-8, reminding us of the timeless truths found in Scripture and the enduring relevance of God’s Word in guiding our lives and shaping our understanding of His character and purposes for humanity.
Genesis 6:9-12
The Bible talks about Noah and the wickedness of the world that led to the great flood in Genesis 6:9-12. Let’s break down this significant passage:
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“This is the account of Noah” (Genesis 6:9): This marks the beginning of the story of Noah, one of the most well-known figures in the Bible. Noah was described as a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God. This sets Noah apart from the rest of the people alive during that time, highlighting his exceptional faith and relationship with God.
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“Noah had three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth” (Genesis 6:10): These three sons later play a crucial role in the story of the flood. They, along with their wives, are the only ones chosen to join Noah on the ark, signifying the importance of family and lineage in biblical narratives.
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“The earth was corrupt in God’s sight and was full of violence” (Genesis 6:11): This verse emphasizes the depravity of the world at that time. The wickedness and violence had reached such a level that it grieved God’s heart, leading Him to decide to bring judgment upon the earth through the flood. This highlights the consequences of humanity’s sin and disobedience to God.
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“God saw how corrupt the earth had become, for all the people on earth had corrupted their ways” (Genesis 6:12): This verse reaffirms the extent of the sinful behavior of mankind, leading to God’s decision to reset the earth through the flood. It serves as a reminder of the importance of living in accordance with God’s will and the consequences of straying from His path.
The story of Noah and the flood is not only a historical account but also holds timeless messages for believers. It demonstrates God’s judgment against sin, His faithfulness to the righteous, the importance of obedience, and the concept of divine grace in providing a way of salvation. It also foreshadows the ultimate redemption and salvation through Jesus Christ.
Through the faithfulness and obedience of Noah, his family, and the animals on the ark, we see how God preserves those who walk in righteousness. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder that even in the midst of a wicked and corrupt world, God provides a way of escape for those who trust in Him.
Furthermore, the flood serves as a type of baptism, symbolizing purification and new beginnings. Just as Noah and his family were saved through the waters of the flood, believers today are saved through the waters of baptism, entering into a new life in Christ. Genesis 6:9-12 sets the stage for the monumental events that follow in the story of Noah, showcasing God’s sovereignty, judgment, and mercy, while also underscoring the importance of faith and obedience in the face of adversity.
Genesis 6:13-22
God informs Noah of His decision to bring a flood upon the earth to destroy all life under heaven due to the rampant wickedness and corruption that had consumed humanity, starting the passage in Genesis 6:13-22. God instructs Noah to build an ark to save himself, his family, and a remnant of all living creatures. This section of the scripture is crucial in understanding the concept of God’s judgment and mercy.
God’s decision to send a flood can be seen as a form of divine justice in response to the widespread sinfulness of humanity during that time. The Bible often speaks about the consequences of disobedience and sin, and here we see a dramatic example of God’s wrath against unrighteousness. This serves as a warning to us all about the seriousness of our actions and the importance of living according to God’s will.
Noah’s obedience to God’s command to build the ark is a testament to his faith and righteousness. Despite the ridicule he may have faced from those around him and the enormity of the task at hand, Noah trusted in God’s word and followed it diligently. This showcases the theme of obedience and faithfulness in the face of adversity, demonstrating the rewards that come with aligning oneself with God’s plan.
The ark itself is a symbol of salvation and protection. Just as Noah and his family found safety within the ark amidst the destruction of the flood, we can find refuge in God during times of trial and tribulation. This serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to His people and His ability to provide a way out even in the midst of chaos.
The meticulous instructions given by God regarding the dimensions and design of the ark reveal His sovereignty and attention to detail. Every aspect of the ark was planned out by God to ensure the safety and preservation of those inside. This emphasizes the importance of following God’s guidance precisely, as His ways are higher than our ways and His wisdom surpasses our own. The overarching themes of judgment, obedience, faith, and protection found throughout the Bible remind us as we reflect on this passage. The story of Noah and the ark serves as a powerful illustration of God’s justice and mercy, His call for obedience amidst a sinful world, and His promise of salvation for those who trust in Him. It encourages us to heed God’s word, walk in faith, and seek refuge in His promises, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill them.
After Genesis 6
The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. So the Lord said, “I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them.”
But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord. This is the account of Noah and his family. The Lord looked upon the earth and saw the depths of sin that had consumed humanity, causing his heart to be heavy with sorrow. Yet, in the midst of this darkness, a glimmer of hope emerged – the righteous man Noah, who had found favor in the eyes of the Almighty. The Lord’s plan for Noah and his family would soon unfold, leading us to the next chapter of this profound story. What divine purpose awaited them, and how would it shape the future of all creation? Let us turn the page and discover the unfolding of God’s will.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.