Genesis 7:10

And after seven days the floodwaters came upon the earth.

Study Bible

And after seven days
This phrase indicates a period of waiting and preparation. The number seven often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection in the Bible, as seen in the creation week (Genesis 1). This waiting period could signify a final opportunity for repentance or a time of divine patience before judgment. It parallels the seven days of creation, suggesting a new beginning or re-creation through the flood.

the floodwaters came
The floodwaters represent God's judgment on a corrupt world, as described earlier in Genesis 6:5-7. This event is a pivotal moment in biblical history, marking a transition from the antediluvian world to a new era. The flood narrative is echoed in other ancient Near Eastern texts, such as the Epic of Gilgamesh, but the biblical account emphasizes moral and theological themes. The floodwaters can also be seen as a type of baptism, symbolizing cleansing and renewal, as referenced in 1 Peter 3:20-21.

upon the earth
The earth here refers to the entire inhabited world, emphasizing the universality of the flood's impact. This global judgment underscores the seriousness of sin and the extent of God's authority over creation. The flood narrative sets the stage for God's covenant with Noah, which reaffirms His commitment to humanity and the earth (Genesis 9:11-17). The phrase also foreshadows future judgments and the ultimate renewal of creation, as seen in prophetic literature like Isaiah 65:17 and Revelation 21:1.

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.