◄ Genesis 7 ►
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Summary The Great Flood In the tale of Noah and the ark, we are reminded of the sovereignty of God and the profound impact of faith and obedience. Despite the harsh judgement upon a corrupt world, God's mercy prevails, ensuring the survival and renewal of life. It is a call to heed God's instructions, acknowledging that even in the face of disaster, faith can provide refuge and hope. God's Command to Noah (Verses 1-4) God instructed Noah, found righteous, to enter the ark with his family and a specified number of each kind of animal. He also revealed the impending flood to Noah. Noah's Obedience (Verses 5-7) Noah obeyed God's instructions faithfully. The Arrival of the Flood (Verses 8-12) After seven days, the floodwaters inundated the earth for forty days and forty nights. Entry into the Ark (Verses 13-16) Noah, his family, and all the animals entered the ark. The Lord then shut them in. The Rising Floodwaters (Verses 17-20) For forty days, the flood kept coming, lifting the ark high above the earth, and covering all the mountains. The Destruction of Life (Verses 21-23) Every living creature on the earth perished in the flood, except those preserved in the ark. The Flood's Duration (Verse 24) The floodwaters prevailed for 150 days. In this dramatic chapter of Genesis, we witness the execution of God's judgment on a corrupt world through a great flood. Amid the chaos, Noah's family and a selected group of animals find refuge in an ark, highlighting the mercy of God amidst His judgement, and the importance of faith and obedience. Teaching Points God's Command and Noah's Obedience Genesis 7:1-5 emphasizes God's specific instructions to Noah and his unwavering obedience. Then the LORD said to Noah, 'Go into the ark, you and all your family, because I have found you righteous in this generation.' (Genesis 7:1) The Gathering of the Animals Verses 2-3 detail God's command to bring animals into the ark, highlighting His sovereignty over creation and His plan for preservation. The Timing of the Flood Genesis 7:11-12 describes the precise timing of the flood, underscoring God's control over the natural world. In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, on the seventeenth day of the second month—on that day all the springs of the great deep burst forth, and the floodgates of the heavens were opened. (Genesis 7:11) The Extent of the Flood Verses 17-24 illustrate the totality of the flood's destruction, serving as a sobering reminder of God's judgment against sin. God's Faithfulness to Noah Despite the devastation, God remembers Noah and his family, preserving them through the flood as a testament to His faithfulness. Practical Applications Obedience to God Just as Noah obeyed God's commands without question, we are called to trust and obey God's Word, even when it defies human logic. Faith in God's Promises Noah's faith in God's promise of salvation through the ark encourages us to trust in God's promises for our lives. Preparedness for God's Judgment The flood serves as a reminder of the reality of God's judgment, urging us to live righteously and be prepared for Christ's return. Stewardship of Creation God's instruction to preserve animal life challenges us to be responsible stewards of His creation. People 1. Noah Described as a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God. Noah is the central human figure in the flood narrative, chosen by God to build the ark and preserve life. The Hebrew name "Noah" (נֹחַ, Noach) means "rest" or "comfort." 2. Noah's Wife Although not named in the text, she is mentioned as accompanying Noah into the ark. Her role is significant as part of the family unit that God preserved. 3. Shem One of Noah's three sons, Shem is often associated with the Semitic peoples. His name in Hebrew (שֵׁם, Shem) means "name" or "renown." 4. Ham Another son of Noah, Ham is traditionally linked to the peoples of Africa and parts of the Near East. His name in Hebrew (חָם, Cham) is often associated with "hot" or "warm." 5. Japheth The third son of Noah, Japheth is traditionally associated with the peoples of Europe and parts of Asia. His name in Hebrew (יֶפֶת, Yepheth) is thought to mean "expansion" or "enlargement." 6. Shem's Wife Like Noah's wife, she is not named in the text but is included as part of the family entering the ark. 7. Ham's Wife Also unnamed, she is part of the family group that God saves through the flood. 8. Japheth's Wife The final member of Noah's family mentioned in the text, she too is unnamed but included in the group entering the ark. Places 1. The Ark While not a geographical location, the Ark is a significant place in Genesis 7. It is the vessel that Noah built according to God's instructions to save his family and pairs of every living creature from the Flood. The Hebrew word for "ark" is "תֵּבָה" (tevah), which signifies a large, box-like structure. 2. The Earth The entire Earth is a central focus in Genesis 7, as it is the location that experiences the Flood. The Hebrew word for "earth" is "אֶרֶץ" (eretz), which can mean land, country, or the whole world, depending on the context. In this chapter, it refers to the entire inhabited world that was covered by the waters of the Flood. 3. The Heavens The "heavens" are mentioned in the context of the rain that falls for forty days and forty nights. The Hebrew word "שָׁמַיִם" (shamayim) is used, which can mean the sky or the abode of God. In Genesis 7, it refers to the sky from which the rain descends. Events 1. God Commands Noah to Enter the Ark God instructs Noah to enter the ark with his family and the animals. The Lord says to Noah, "Go into the ark, you and your whole family, because I have found you righteous in this generation" (Genesis 7:1). The Hebrew word for "righteous" is צַדִּיק (tzaddik), indicating Noah's moral integrity and faithfulness. 2. Gathering of Animals Noah is commanded to take seven pairs of every kind of clean animal and one pair of every kind of unclean animal, along with seven pairs of every kind of bird, to keep their various kinds alive throughout the earth (Genesis 7:2-3). The distinction between "clean" (טָהוֹר, tahor) and "unclean" (טָמֵא, tamei) animals is significant in the Hebrew context, relating to later dietary laws. 3. Seven Days Until the Flood God informs Noah that in seven days, He will send rain on the earth for forty days and forty nights, and He will wipe from the face of the earth every living creature He has made (Genesis 7:4). The number seven often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection in Hebrew culture. 4. Noah's Obedience Noah does everything that the Lord commands him (Genesis 7:5). This obedience is a recurring theme in the narrative, emphasizing Noah's faith and trust in God's instructions. 5. Noah and His Family Enter the Ark Noah, his sons, his wife, and his sons' wives enter the ark to escape the waters of the flood (Genesis 7:7). This act of entering the ark signifies their faith in God's promise of salvation. 6. Animals Enter the Ark Pairs of clean and unclean animals, birds, and creatures that move along the ground, male and female, come to Noah and enter the ark as God had commanded (Genesis 7:8-9). The phrase "as God had commanded" underscores the divine orchestration of events. 7. The Flood Begins After seven days, the floodwaters come upon the earth. In the six hundredth year of Noah's life, on the seventeenth day of the second month, all the springs of the great deep burst forth, and the floodgates of the heavens were opened (Genesis 7:10-11). The Hebrew term for "floodgates" (אֲרֻבּוֹת, arubot) suggests a deluge of cosmic proportions. 8. Forty Days and Nights of Rain Rain falls on the earth for forty days and forty nights (Genesis 7:12). The number forty often represents a period of testing or judgment in biblical literature. 9. The Ark is Sealed On the very day that Noah and his family enter the ark, the Lord shuts them in (Genesis 7:16). This act of God sealing the ark signifies divine protection and the finality of His judgment. 10. The Floodwaters Increase The floodwaters increase greatly on the earth, and the ark floats on the surface of the water (Genesis 7:18). The rising waters symbolize the overwhelming nature of God's judgment. 11. The Earth is Covered The waters rise and cover the mountains to a depth of more than fifteen cubits (Genesis 7:20). This complete submersion indicates the totality of the flood's impact. 12. Destruction of All Life Every living thing that moved on the earth perishes—birds, livestock, wild animals, all the creatures that swarm over the earth, and all mankind (Genesis 7:21). The Hebrew word for "perish" (גָּוַע, gava) conveys the finality of the destruction. 13. Only Noah Remains Only Noah and those with him in the ark survive (Genesis 7:23). This preservation highlights God's faithfulness to His covenant with Noah. 14. Floodwaters Prevail for 150 Days The waters prevail upon the earth for 150 days (Genesis 7:24). This extended period emphasizes the severity and completeness of the flood judgment. Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. Matthew 24:37-39 Jesus compares the days of Noah to the coming of the Son of Man, emphasizing the need for readiness. 2 Peter 2:5 Peter refers to Noah as a preacher of righteousness, highlighting his role in warning others of impending judgment. Prayer Points Pray for a heart of obedience like Noah, willing to follow God's commands even when they seem difficult or illogical. Ask for increased faith to trust in God's promises and His timing in our lives. Seek God's guidance in being good stewards of the earth and all its creatures. Pray for the courage to share the message of salvation with others, just as Noah did in his generation. Bible Study Questions 1. How does God's instruction to Noah reflect His merciful nature? 2. What does Noah's obedience to God tell us about his character and faith? 3. How might the gathering of animals in the ark symbolize God's care for all of His creation? 4. How do you interpret God's decision to flood the earth and destroy all life? 5. How does this narrative change your perspective on God's judgement and mercy? 6. What significance does the number "40" (as in forty days and nights of rain) hold in this context? 7. How does Noah's experience with the flood relate to the concept of "trial by fire" or hardship? 8. What lessons can we learn from Noah's unwavering faith in the face of a global calamity? 9. How would you have reacted if you were in Noah's place, receiving such a daunting command from God? 10. How can we understand the closing of the ark's door by God Himself? 11. How might you apply the concept of God's provision and protection in the ark to your own life? 12. What does the total destruction of life on earth tell us about the severity of human corruption? 13. How do you reconcile the image of a merciful God with the destruction He brought upon the earth? 14. How does this chapter deepen your understanding of God's promise and covenant? 15. What does it mean to be "righteous in this generation," as Noah was? 16. What practical steps can you take to demonstrate faith and obedience as Noah did? 17. How can this narrative of destruction and renewal influence our understanding of current environmental crises? 18. How can Noah's story inspire personal and communal responsibility towards God's creation? 19. How does the survival of Noah and the animals relate to the biblical theme of a "remnant" being preserved? 20. How might the flood narrative shape our understanding of divine judgement and salvation in contemporary society? Topics 1. God's Command to Enter the Ark God instructs Noah to enter the ark with his family and the animals. The Hebrew word for "enter" (בּוֹא, bo) signifies a directive to come into a place of safety. ^Genesis 7:1 :^ "Then the LORD said to Noah, 'Enter the ark, you and all your household, for you alone I have seen to be righteous before Me in this generation.'" 2. Instructions for Animals Specific instructions are given regarding the animals to be taken into the ark, emphasizing the preservation of species. The Hebrew term for "clean" (טָהוֹר, tahor) indicates animals suitable for sacrifice. ^Genesis 7:2 :^ "You are to take with you seven pairs of every kind of clean animal, a male and its mate, and a pair of every kind of unclean animal, a male and its mate." 3. The Seven-Day Warning God provides a seven-day warning before the flood begins, highlighting His patience and the impending judgment. The number seven (שֶׁבַע, sheva) often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection. ^Genesis 7:4 :^ "For seven days from now I will send rain on the earth for forty days and forty nights, and every living thing I have made I will blot out from the face of the earth." 4. Obedience of Noah Noah's compliance with God's commands is emphasized, showcasing his faith and righteousness. The Hebrew root for "did" (עָשָׂה, asah) implies action and fulfillment of duty. ^Genesis 7:5 :^ "And Noah did all that the LORD had commanded him." 5. The Onset of the Flood The narrative describes the beginning of the flood, marking a pivotal moment of divine judgment. The Hebrew word for "flood" (מַבּוּל, mabbul) is unique to this event, underscoring its significance. ^Genesis 7:11 :^ "In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, on the seventeenth day of the second month—on that day all the springs of the great deep burst forth, and the floodgates of the heavens were opened." 6. Entry into the Ark The entry of Noah, his family, and the animals into the ark is detailed, signifying God's provision and protection. ^Genesis 7:13-14 :^ "On that very day Noah entered the ark, along with his sons Shem, Ham, and Japheth, and his wife and the three wives of his sons—" 7. Divine Closure of the Ark God Himself closes the door of the ark, symbolizing His control over the situation and the sealing of His covenant with Noah. ^Genesis 7:16 :^ "And those that entered were male and female of every living thing, as God had commanded Noah. Then the LORD shut him in." 8. Duration and Extent of the Flood The floodwaters prevail for forty days, covering the earth and demonstrating the totality of God's judgment. The number forty (אַרְבָּעִים, arba'im) often represents a period of testing or trial. ^Genesis 7:17-18 :^ "For forty days the flood kept coming on the earth, and the waters rose and lifted the ark high above the earth." 9. Destruction of Life The complete destruction of all life outside the ark is recounted, emphasizing the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God. ^Genesis 7:21-23 :^ "Every living thing that moved on the earth perished—birds, livestock, animals, every creature that swarms upon the earth, and all mankind." 10. Survival of Noah and the Ark's Inhabitants The chapter concludes with the survival of Noah and those with him in the ark, highlighting God's faithfulness to preserve a remnant. ^Genesis 7:23 :^ "Only Noah and those with him in the ark remained." Themes 1. Divine Judgment Genesis 7 illustrates the theme of divine judgment as God decides to cleanse the earth of its wickedness through the flood. The chapter begins with God instructing Noah to enter the ark because He has seen Noah as righteous in his generation (Genesis 7:1). The Hebrew word for "righteous" (צַדִּיק, tzaddik) emphasizes Noah's moral integrity and faithfulness amidst a corrupt world. 2. Obedience to God Noah's obedience is a central theme, as he follows God's commands precisely. Genesis 7:5 states, "And Noah did all that the LORD had commanded him." This obedience is a demonstration of faith and trust in God's plan, highlighting the importance of adhering to divine instructions. 3. Salvation and Preservation The ark serves as a symbol of salvation and preservation for Noah, his family, and the animals. In Genesis 7:7, Noah and his family enter the ark to escape the floodwaters, illustrating God's provision and protection for those who are faithful. 4. Covenant Faithfulness The theme of covenant faithfulness is evident as God remembers His promise to Noah. The preservation of Noah and the animals in the ark is a testament to God's commitment to His covenant, which is later explicitly established in Genesis 9. 5. Human and Animal Relationship The inclusion of animals in the ark (Genesis 7:2-3) underscores the interconnectedness of human and animal life. The Hebrew word for "kind" (מִין, min) indicates the diversity and order within creation that God seeks to preserve. 6. Universal Impact of Sin The flood narrative highlights the universal impact of sin, as the entire earth is affected by human wickedness. Genesis 7:23 states, "Every living thing on the face of the earth was destroyed," emphasizing the far-reaching consequences of sin and the need for divine intervention. 7. God's Sovereignty God's sovereignty is a recurring theme, as He controls the natural elements to fulfill His purposes. Genesis 7:11 describes the "fountains of the great deep" bursting forth and the "floodgates of the heavens" being opened, demonstrating God's power over creation. 8. Renewal and New Beginnings The flood serves as a means of renewal and the opportunity for a new beginning. The cleansing of the earth sets the stage for a fresh start for humanity and creation, pointing to God's desire for restoration and order. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions