Genesis: Study 3
Genealogies are an important element of many of the books in the bible. They are meant to convey a sense of connection between what takes place in the present of the biblical figures described by biblical writers and the events and people of the past. These generational lists substantiate and/or validate the blood lines of biblical figures, showing an important genealogical trail traced back to the patriarchs. The list of Adam’s descendants we are given in chapter 5 of Genesis is actually the second genealogy in the bible. What are the differences between this genealogy and that of Cain and his descendants? What are the similarities? In chapter 6, we read an intriguing account of God’s decision to start the human race over with Noah and his descendants. We need to look closely at this account because there are various interesting parts within it as well as many lessons we need to take away from it.
Genesis 5:1-32 (Adam’s Descendants)
Questions for Discussion
How were Adam and his immediate descendants able to live for so long? Are we to take these ages literally?
Is the Enoch listed in this genealogy the same figure mentioned in the list of Cain’s descendants?
In a related question, did Enoch die? What are we told of his end in this section? What does this mean?
Where can we find other important genealogies in the bible?
Genesis 6:1-22 (The Wickedness of Mankind, Noah Pleases God)
Questions for Discussion
Who were “the sons of God”? Who were the Nephilim, or “fallen ones”? When did God create these beings?
Why does God plan to wipe out humankind from the face of the earth? Here again, God is given a very anthropomorphic image, as He is actually “sorry” for creating mankind. Did God not know what mankind would do? How could He be sorry for what he created when He is omniscient? Didn’t He see this coming?
Why does God give Noah the task of building the ark? Why did He not build it Himself so that He would know there would be no flaw in its design?
Why does God give Noah such specific instructions for the construction of the ark? Based on the measurements God gives him, is the ark large enough to hold that many living things?
What is the major lesson to be learned from God’s decision to wipe out humankind from the face of the earth in chapter 6?
2 comments:
Thanks for posting this Will. I've had some questions from folks who didn't know how to email you about the questions and are very interested in this. I'm aware of some who are copying the questions for their home Bible Study! Isn't that great???? So glad you are doing this!
Wow, that's awesome! I'm really happy that people are interested!
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