Genesis 7:10

And after seven days the floodwaters came upon the earth.

Study Bible

And after seven days
This phrase marks a significant period of waiting and preparation. The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection, as seen in the creation week. Here, it indicates a divinely appointed time of grace and final preparation for Noah and his family. The seven days could also be seen as a period of mourning for the world that was about to be judged, reflecting God's patience and mercy even in the face of impending judgment.

the floodwaters
The term "floodwaters" refers to the deluge that God sent to cleanse the earth of its widespread corruption and violence. In Hebrew, the word used is "mabbul," which is unique to the Genesis flood narrative, emphasizing the singularity and magnitude of this event. The floodwaters symbolize both judgment and renewal, as they destroy the old, sinful world and pave the way for a new beginning. This duality reflects God's justice and His redemptive purposes.

came upon the earth
This phrase signifies the fulfillment of God's warning and the execution of His judgment. The Hebrew word for "earth" is "erets," which can mean land, country, or the entire world, indicating the global scope of the flood. The floodwaters coming upon the earth demonstrate God's sovereign control over creation, as He uses the elements to accomplish His will. This event serves as a powerful reminder of God's authority and the seriousness of sin, while also pointing to His ultimate plan for redemption through Jesus Christ, who offers salvation from the judgment to come.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Noah
A righteous man chosen by God to build the ark and preserve life through the flood. His obedience and faith are central to this account.

2. The Flood
A cataclysmic event sent by God to cleanse the earth of its widespread wickedness, sparing only Noah, his family, and the animals aboard the ark.

3. The Ark
A large vessel constructed by Noah under God's instructions to save his family and pairs of every kind of animal from the flood.

4. The Earth
The entire world, which was subject to God's judgment through the floodwaters.

5. Seven Days
A period of waiting and preparation before the floodwaters began, symbolizing completion and divine timing.

Teaching Points

Obedience in Faith
Noah's actions demonstrate the importance of trusting and obeying God's commands, even when the outcome is not immediately visible.

Divine Timing
The seven-day wait before the floodwaters came underscores the significance of God's perfect timing in His plans.

Judgment and Mercy
The flood serves as a reminder of God's judgment against sin but also His mercy in providing a means of salvation.

Preparation and Patience
The period before the flood highlights the need for preparation and patience in our spiritual lives, trusting in God's promises.

Symbolism of Water
The floodwaters symbolize both destruction and new beginnings, pointing to the transformative power of God's intervention.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Noah's obedience to God's instructions challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways can we see God's timing at work in our own lives, and how can we cultivate patience during periods of waiting?

3. How does the account of the flood illustrate both God's judgment and His mercy, and how can we apply this understanding to our view of God's character?

4. What parallels can we draw between the flood and the concept of baptism as described in the New Testament?

5. How can we prepare ourselves spiritually for the challenges and "floods" we may face in life, drawing from Noah's example?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 6:5-8
Provides context for why God decided to send the flood, highlighting the wickedness of humanity and Noah's favor in God's eyes.

Hebrews 11:7
References Noah's faith in building the ark, emphasizing his righteousness and obedience as a model for believers.

1 Peter 3:20-21
Draws a parallel between the flood and baptism, symbolizing salvation and cleansing through water.