Genesis 9:15

I will remember My covenant between Me and you and every living creature of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life.

Study Bible

I will remember
The phrase "I will remember" is significant in the Hebrew context, where the word "zakar" is used. This is not merely a mental recollection but an active, covenantal remembrance. In the ancient Near Eastern context, covenants were binding agreements, and to "remember" a covenant was to act in accordance with its terms. God's remembrance is a divine assurance of His faithfulness and commitment to His promises.

My covenant
The term "covenant" (Hebrew: "berit") is central to the biblical narrative. It signifies a solemn agreement, often sealed with a sign or sacrifice. In Genesis, God's covenant with Noah is unconditional, emphasizing God's grace and mercy. This covenant is a foundational moment in Scripture, highlighting God's desire for relationship and His sovereign control over creation.

between Me and you
This phrase underscores the personal nature of God's covenant. It is not a distant or impersonal agreement but one that involves direct interaction between God and humanity. The inclusion of "you" (Noah and his descendants) signifies the relational aspect of God's dealings with mankind, reflecting His desire for a personal relationship with His creation.

and all living creatures of every kind
God's covenant extends beyond humanity to include "all living creatures," indicating the comprehensive scope of His promise. The Hebrew word "nephesh" often translated as "living creatures," encompasses all forms of life, emphasizing God's care for the entire created order. This reflects the biblical theme of stewardship and the interconnectedness of all life.

Never again
This phrase is a divine promise of restraint. The repetition of "never again" in the flood narrative serves as a reassurance of God's mercy. It highlights the finality and certainty of God's promise, providing comfort and hope to humanity that such a catastrophic judgment will not recur.

will the waters become a flood
The imagery of "waters" and "flood" recalls the chaos and destruction of the Genesis flood. In the ancient world, water was often seen as a symbol of chaos and disorder. God's promise to restrain the waters signifies His control over chaos and His commitment to order and stability in creation.

to destroy all life
The phrase "to destroy all life" underscores the severity of the flood's judgment. The Hebrew word "shachath" (to destroy) conveys a sense of complete ruin. God's promise not to destroy all life again is a testament to His mercy and the value He places on His creation. It reassures humanity of God's protective and sustaining presence in the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The Creator who establishes a covenant with Noah and all living creatures, promising never to destroy the earth with a flood again.

2. Noah
The righteous man chosen by God to survive the flood and repopulate the earth.

3. All Living Creatures
Every living being on earth, included in God's covenant, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of His promise.

4. The Flood
A cataclysmic event where God judged the earth for its wickedness, sparing only Noah, his family, and the animals on the ark.

5. The Covenant
A divine promise from God, symbolized by the rainbow, ensuring that a flood will never again destroy all life on earth.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
God's covenant with Noah is a testament to His faithfulness. He keeps His promises, providing assurance and stability in a world that often seems chaotic.

The Universality of God's Covenant
The inclusion of "all living creatures" in the covenant highlights God's care for all creation, reminding us of our responsibility to steward the earth wisely.

Symbolism of the Rainbow
The rainbow serves as a visual reminder of God's mercy and the assurance that He will not destroy the earth by flood again. It encourages us to trust in His promises.

Judgment and Mercy
The flood account balances God's judgment with His mercy. While He judged the earth for its wickedness, He also provided a way of salvation through Noah, pointing to the ultimate salvation through Christ.

Living in Covenant Relationship
As recipients of God's promises, we are called to live in a way that reflects His character, showing faithfulness, mercy, and stewardship in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's covenant with Noah enhance our trust in His promises today?

2. In what ways can the rainbow serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness in your personal life?

3. How does the inclusion of "all living creatures" in the covenant inform our responsibility towards the environment?

4. What parallels can you draw between God's salvation of Noah and His offer of salvation through Jesus Christ?

5. How can we live out the principles of God's covenant in our relationships with others and with creation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 6-8
Provides the background of the flood, detailing the reasons for God's judgment and the salvation of Noah and his family.

Genesis 9:12-17
Expands on the covenant, introducing the rainbow as a sign of God's promise.

Isaiah 54:9
References the Noahic covenant, using it as a metaphor for God's enduring mercy and faithfulness.

2 Peter 3:5-7
Discusses the flood as a historical event and a precursor to future judgment, emphasizing God's control over creation.

Revelation 4:3
Describes a rainbow around God's throne, symbolizing His faithfulness and mercy.