Giants, grief, and grace
(Genesis 6:1-8)
The escalation of evil is an undeniable reality throughout human history. The prophet Isaiah, in his poignant words from chapter 5:18-20, warns of the dangers of towing sin along, but the situation worsens when sin is openly flaunted and even proclaimed as good. Amidst the clamor of controversy, the ancient text of Genesis 6 emerges as a beacon of insight, revealing that the patterns we observe today are not new; they have echoed throughout the annals of human existence. Moreover, within its verses lies the key to understanding the timeless answer to this age-old predicament.
Genesis 6 presents a vivid portrayal of the spiraling descent into sin. The narrative highlights the increasing corruption and moral decay that permeated the earth as humanity turned away from righteousness. As the weight of wickedness grew heavier, the consequences became dire, threatening to engulf all of creation.
Yet, amidst the darkness, the omniscient gaze of God never wavers. He beholds the wickedness of mankind, taking note of every transgression and every thought turned astray. The unchanging nature of God’s holiness compels Him to confront the abhorrence of sin.
The Lord’s response to the rampant sin is not one of indifference or apathy. His righteous anger and indignation burn against the evil that has taken hold. This divine displeasure is not a sign of cruelty, but a testament to God’s unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness.
In the face of escalating evil, God responds. He declares that the days of wickedness shall be numbered. The consequences of sin, unleashed upon humanity, will bring forth judgment and the end of this corrupt era. No evil can perpetually elude the righteous hand of God.
Remarkably, even in the midst of impending judgment, a glimpse of divine grace emerges. God, in His infinite mercy, chooses to extend grace and offer an opportunity for repentance and salvation. Amidst the giants of sin and the grief of impending judgment, the thread of grace weaves through the narrative, reminding us of God’s enduring love for His creation.
Sin escalates
Genesis 6:1-4
In Genesis 6:1-4, we witness a profound escalation of sin among mankind. The passage begins by noting the exponential growth of the human population and the birth of daughters to them. This sets the stage for the unraveling of a tragic sequence of events that demonstrates the ever-increasing nature of sin and its consequences.
The passage begins by noting the rapid multiplication of humanity, indicating a population boom. However, the focus shifts to the “sons of God” who notice the daughters of men and find them attractive, leading them to take these women as wives. The term “sons of God” implies a connection to the divine realm, possibly referring to angels or heavenly beings. Thus, this action signifies a significant departure from the original order established by God, where marriage was intended to be between a man and a woman of the same kind (Gen 2:24). The “sons of God” overstep their boundaries and engage in relationships that were not part of God’s design, demonstrating an escalation of sinful behavior.
The identity of these “sons of God” has been a subject of debate throughout history. Some interpret them as fallen angels or demons, citing biblical references like Job 1:6; 2:1; 38:7 and Psalm 29:1; 89:6. This understanding is also supported by ancient Jewish interpreters and early Christian writers, as well as the Greek translators of the Septuagint and the ancient apocryphal book of Enoch.
The book of Enoch, dated around 200 BC, describes a similar scenario where the angels, known as the “sons of Heaven,” desire the daughters of men and choose them as wives, resulting in the birth of children. This parallel account further strengthens the interpretation of the “sons of God” as fallen angels.
However, some scholars reject this view and propose alternative interpretations. Nonetheless, it is crucial to note that various biblical passages allude to the interaction between angels and humans. For instance, 2 Peter 2:4-5 and Jude 6-7 highlight the sinful actions of angels and their subsequent judgment, including the reference to the time of the flood. Additionally, Jesus Himself states in Mark 12:25 that angels in heaven do not marry, suggesting that they can engage with humanity in different ways. The writer of Hebrews 13:2 also reminds us that humans have unknowingly entertained angels, further supporting the possibility of such interactions.
If we accept this interpretation, it signifies an unprecedented level of rebellion and transgression. These supernatural beings, created by God to serve and worship Him, now succumb to their desires and engage in unholy alliances with human women. This act represents a profound escalation of sin, as it involves the corruption of heavenly beings and the contamination of the human realm.
The offspring of these illicit unions are called the Nephilim (Gen 6:4). Although their precise nature is not explicitly defined in the text, they are described as mighty men of old, men of renown. The presence of these powerful figures, resulting from the unholy unions, further demonstrates the exacerbation of sin and its consequences. The Nephilim become symbols of human rebellion and hubris, embodying the distortion and corruption brought about by the sinfulness of mankind.
Furthermore, God’s response to this escalating sin is considerable. He declares that His Spirit will not abide in man forever and imposes a limit on human life, reducing their days to 120 years. This pronouncement serves as a judgment and a warning, illustrating the consequences of the increasing wickedness and rebellion of mankind. It shows that God’s patience with humanity has limits, and a time of reckoning is approaching.
The passage in Genesis 6:1-4 vividly portrays the escalation of mankind’s sinfulness through the actions of the “sons of God” and the resulting birth of the Nephilim. It showcases the distortion of God’s design, the contamination of the divine-human boundary, and the subsequent judgment by God. It serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the devastating consequences that can arise when sin is allowed to escalate unchecked. It calls us to examine our own lives and societies, urging us to resist the allure of sin and pursue righteousness before it leads to a destructive path of rebellion and separation from God.
God sees it
Genesis 6:5
As sin proliferates, Genesis 6:5 presents a striking declaration: “The LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” This verse encapsulates the profound deterioration of humanity’s moral fabric during this period. It vividly portrays the widespread corruption, where every inclination and motive of human hearts is steeped in evil, devoid of any good.
To appreciate the significance of God’s observation, it is crucial to consider contrasting references in the book of Genesis. In the creation account, after each act of God’s creation, we encounter the recurring refrain, “And God saw that it was good.” However, in Genesis 6:5, we find a stark departure from this pattern. Instead of beholding goodness, God’s gaze falls upon the magnitude of wickedness that has consumed mankind. Instead of seeing good, He sees wickedness.
This juxtaposition serves to underscore the severity of the situation. It highlights the tragic reality that God’s creation, which was once deemed good, has now succumbed to an overwhelming tide of sin. The contrast serves as a poignant reminder of the fallen state of humanity, showcasing the devastating consequences of disobedience and the tragic departure from God’s original design.
Moreover, it is noteworthy that God’s observation of human wickedness does not imply surprise or ignorance. This verse aligns with a broader biblical theme: God’s omniscience and foreknowledge of human behavior. In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, the apostle Paul warns Timothy about the perilous times that will come, describing the characteristics of people in the last days: people that are lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, etc. It becomes evident that God, in His divine knowledge, is not taken aback by the escalation of sin, but rather confirms the fulfillment of His prior warnings.
The application from this passage is clear at once. God sees all our sins. Throughout the Bible, we find numerous references emphasizing God’s omniscience and His intimate knowledge of every human heart. Psalm 139:1-4 beautifully captures this truth, stating, “O LORD, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O LORD, you know it altogether.” While God sees and knows every sin we commit, it is essential to explore how He feels about it. It is to that we turn in the next section.
He hates it
Genesis 6:6
Genesis 6:6 reveals a sobering truth about God’s response to human sin. The verse states, “And the LORD regretted (grieved) that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved (pained) him to his heart.”
It is important to recognize that God’s response to sin goes beyond mere sadness or disappointment. He hates sin with a righteous and holy hatred. The Scriptures testify to this truth, showing that God’s grief can lead to His anger and righteous judgment.
In Psalm 78:40-41, we see that God’s people provoked Him to anger through their continual rebellion and unfaithfulness. Isaiah 63:10 speaks of how the people of Israel grieved God’s Holy Spirit through their disobedience. These passages reveal the depth of God’s emotions and His righteous response to sin.
Even Jesus, in Luke 12:49-53, expressed the intensity of God’s response to sin. He spoke of coming to cast fire on the earth, indicating a purification and judgment that would accompany His mission. This reflects the seriousness with which God views sin and the consequences it brings.
God’s hatred for sin stems from His perfect holiness and righteousness. He cannot tolerate sin because it stands in direct opposition to His nature. Sin separates humanity from God and disrupts His perfect order. Therefore, His grief is not merely a passive sorrow; it is an active response to the rebellion and disobedience of His creation.
It is essential to understand the gravity of God’s hatred for sin because it underscores the need for salvation. In other words, God’s grief is not directed solely at sin in an abstract sense, but at the sinners themselves. The expression “God loves the sinner and hates the sin” is not explicitly found in the Bible. Instead, we see that God’s righteous wrath is directed towards sinners who have rebelled against His perfect and holy nature. The weight of God’s wrath rests upon those who have chosen to walk in disobedience. The cross is the only thing that can separate the sinner from their sin.
Paul, in speaking about the cross related to his own sin, said it this way in Romans 7:20: “it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me.” This highlights the sobering yet amazing truth that at the cross the sinner can be truly separated from their sin. Without the cross, sinners remain under the weight of God’s wrath and judgment, bringing special force to Hebrews 10:31, which reminds us that “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.”
And He will one day end it
Genesis 6:7
Genesis 6:7 reveals a solemn declaration from God regarding His response to human sin. The verse states, “So the LORD said, ‘I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the land, man and animals and creeping things and birds of the heavens, for I am sorry that I have made them.'” This statement showcases the severe ramifications that come when God takes action against evil.
Many people often wonder why God allows evil to persist, questioning why He doesn’t intervene. However, in this passage, we witness what happens when God does act decisively. He declares His intention to bring a swift end to the sinful state of humanity by wiping out every living creature from the face of the earth.
This account serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of human rebellion and wickedness. It unveils the stark reality of God’s judgment against evil. The scope of this judgment extends not only to humans, but also to animals, creeping things, and birds, emphasizing the thoroughness of God’s response to the pervasive corruption.
This passage prompts us to consider the patience of God in the face of human sin. Peter echoes this idea in 2 Peter 3:9, stating, “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” The patience of God is not an endorsement of evil or a lack of concern. Instead, it is a divine opportunity for repentance and salvation.
It is essential for us to view the patience of God as an invitation to embrace His offer of salvation. Rather than questioning why He allows evil to persist, we should recognize that His patience grants us the opportunity to turn away from sin and find redemption in Him. We are called to count the patience of God as an invitation to repentance and a path to salvation.
However, we must also remember that God’s patience has an expiration point. Just as judgment came upon the world in the days of Noah, a day of judgment is coming when God will hold all accountable for their actions. The patient forbearance of God should not be mistaken for indifference. It should serve as a motivation for urgent evangelism, spreading the message of salvation and calling others to turn to God before it is too late. For God sees our sin and hates it, and will one day do something about it. In the meantime, we have a job to do.
But first He gives grace
Genesis 6:8
Genesis 6:7 presents a profound truth about God’s response to human sin, but it is essential to also recognize His gracious intervention amidst the escalating wickedness. The verse states, “But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD.” Despite the prevailing evil and corruption, Noah stood out as a recipient of God’s favor and grace.
The term “favor” could also be translated as the word “grace.” In this context it signifies the undeserved kindness and approval that God bestowed upon Noah. It reflects God’s sovereign choice to extend His grace to Noah amidst a world filled with sin. This act of divine favor is a testament to God’s mercy and His desire to rescue and preserve those who seek Him.
The concept of grace is not limited to this specific verse, but is woven throughout the entire biblical narrative. In 2 Peter 3:1-15, we see a parallel to the days of Noah. Peter reminds us of God’s patience and long-suffering in withholding judgment, giving people ample time to repent and find salvation. God’s delay in executing judgment reveals His desire for people to turn to Him and experience His grace.
From the Fall of humanity to the brokenness of marriage to the continuation of our ever-present sin, God has observed the escalation of wickedness throughout history. He has witnessed every twisted moment, every tragedy, and every bit of suffering. Yet, in His love and mercy, He has held back His hand of judgment, patiently extending grace and the opportunity for redemption.
It is important for us not to be consumed with worry and despair over the increase of sin in the world. Instead, we should see it as a reminder of the need for repentance and the urgency of making disciples. God’s mission for us is not to focus on external battles, societal reforms, or personal gain. Our mission is to make disciples, to spread the transformative message of salvation, even in the face of impending doom.
Acts 19:18-27 and Acts 17:1-6 demonstrate the impact of disciple making on culture and society. The disciples’ obedience to the Great Commission, their commitment to spreading the Gospel, and their investment in the lives of others turned the world upside down. Making disciples is the way to truly impact and transform our surroundings, far surpassing the superficial efforts of social activism.
As followers of Christ, our focus should be on making disciples, leading others to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. While we acknowledge the reality of sin and the certainty of judgment, our mission is to extend the offer of grace and salvation to all. It is through disciple making that we can influence and transform lives, bringing light into the darkness and hope into a world facing impending doom.
God’s gracious intervention in the midst of sin demonstrates His mercy and desire to rescue those who seek Him. As we witness the increase of sin in the world, we should not lose hope, but instead focus on making disciples. The mission to make disciples is the key to impacting culture and transforming society. It is through disciple making that we can bring the message of grace, salvation, and hope to a world facing impending judgment.
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