Genesis 7:21

And every living thing that moved upon the earth perished--birds, livestock, animals, every creature that swarms upon the earth, and all mankind.

Study Bible

And every creature
The phrase "every creature" underscores the universality of the flood's impact. In Hebrew, the word for "creature" is "נֶפֶשׁ" (nephesh), which often refers to a living being with breath. This highlights the comprehensive nature of God's judgment, affecting all forms of life that possess the breath of life. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the extent of divine justice.

that had moved upon the earth
The Hebrew verb "רָמַשׂ" (ramas) means "to move" or "to creep," indicating all creatures that lived on land. This phrase emphasizes the totality of the flood's destruction, sparing none that dwelt on the earth's surface. It reflects the thoroughness of God's judgment against a world that had become corrupt and violent.

perished
The word "perished" in Hebrew is "גָּוַע" (gava), meaning to expire or die. This term conveys the finality and irreversible nature of the flood's devastation. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the reality of divine judgment, urging believers to live righteously.

birds, livestock, animals
These categories of creatures—birds, livestock, and animals—represent the diversity of life that was affected. Each group had its role in the created order, and their destruction signifies the disruption of God's intended harmony due to human sin. It calls believers to reflect on the stewardship of creation and the impact of sin on the natural world.

every creature that swarms upon the earth
The phrase "every creature that swarms" uses the Hebrew word "שֶׁרֶץ" (sherets), referring to small, teeming creatures. This inclusion highlights the meticulousness of the flood's reach, affecting even the smallest forms of life. It serves as a reminder of God's attention to detail and the comprehensive nature of His judgments.

and all mankind
The phrase "all mankind" underscores the primary target of the flood's judgment. Humanity, created in God's image, had fallen into deep corruption, necessitating divine intervention. This serves as a poignant reminder of the gravity of sin and the need for repentance and redemption through Christ, who offers salvation to all who believe.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Noah
A righteous man chosen by God to survive the flood and preserve life on earth. He built the ark as instructed by God.

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

3. The Ark
A large vessel constructed by Noah to save his family and pairs of every kind of animal from the floodwaters.

4. All Living Creatures
This includes birds, livestock, wild animals, and humans who were not on the ark and perished in the flood.

5. The Earth
The entire planet, which was covered by floodwaters as a divine judgment against widespread sin and corruption.

Teaching Points

God's Judgment and Mercy
The flood demonstrates God's righteous judgment against sin but also His mercy in preserving Noah and the animals. We must recognize both aspects of God's character.

The Consequences of Sin
The destruction of all living creatures outside the ark serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience to God.

Obedience and Faith
Noah's survival was a result of his obedience and faith in God's instructions. We are called to trust and obey God, even when His commands seem daunting or countercultural.

The Importance of Righteous Living
Noah's righteousness set him apart in a corrupt world. We are encouraged to live righteously, standing firm in our faith amidst societal pressures.

God's Sovereignty
The flood account underscores God's control over creation. We can find comfort in knowing that God is sovereign over the events of our lives and the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the flood in Genesis 7:21 challenge our understanding of God's justice and mercy?

2. In what ways can Noah's obedience to God inspire us in our daily walk with Christ?

3. How does the destruction of all living creatures outside the ark serve as a warning for us today?

4. What parallels can we draw between the days of Noah and the current state of the world, as mentioned in Matthew 24:37-39?

5. How can we apply the lessons of Noah's faith and righteousness to our own lives, especially in times of trial and uncertainty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 6:5-7
Provides context for the flood, describing the wickedness of humanity and God's decision to bring judgment.

Matthew 24:37-39
Jesus references the days of Noah, drawing a parallel between the suddenness of the flood and His second coming.

2 Peter 3:6-7
Peter speaks of the world being deluged with water and the future judgment by fire, emphasizing God's sovereignty and justice.

Hebrews 11:7
Highlights Noah's faith in building the ark, serving as an example of obedience and trust in God's word.

Psalm 104:29-30
Reflects on God's control over life and death, similar to His actions during the flood.