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Noah and the Flood: Genesis 6-9
People were becoming so evil and corrupt that God decided it was time to put an end to it. Even the “sons of God” were marrying the “daughters of men,” causing them to be corrupt. (The “sons of God” were probably the descendants of Seth.) So God determined that He would destroy the wicked and start all over through Noah, who had found favor with God. God’s method of destruction was a massive flood.
God told Noah about His plans. He then commanded Noah to build a huge ark (like a big box) in order to save his family and preserve animal kinds on the earth. Noah followed God’s instructions exactly; and while building the ark, he preached to others for 120 years. No one listened.
Only Noah, his wife, his three sons and their wives, along with various animal-kinds, were saved through the flood. Through them, God would populate the earth once again. He also promised never to destroy the world by flood again. The account of Noah is a wonderful example of how God’s grace works with man’s faith and obedience. Noah is an example to us of one who, through faith, persevered in doing what was right, even though so many around him continued to do wrong.
Discussion
1. Why is it significant that the “sons of God” married the “daughters of men”? What does this say about the choice of marriage partners?
2. Why did God bring such a severe judgment? What does this say about how God views sin?
3. Compare the flood with other judgments of God. How will it compare with the final judgment? (2 Peter 3)
4. What did God give for food after the flood? What did God forbid? Why is this important?
5. What did God say would be required of those who kill other humans? What reason is given for this, and why is it so important?
6. Discuss the significance of the rainbow. What does it represent? Why did God give it?