Genesis 7:23

And every living thing on the face of the earth was destroyed--man and livestock, crawling creatures and birds of the air; they were blotted out from the earth, and only Noah and those with him in the ark remained.

Study Bible

And every living thing on the face of the earth was destroyed—
This phrase emphasizes the totality of the destruction brought by the flood. It reflects the severity of God's judgment on a world that had become exceedingly wicked (Genesis 6:5-7). The phrase "every living thing" underscores the comprehensive nature of the flood, affecting all forms of life. This event is a pivotal moment in biblical history, demonstrating God's holiness and justice. It serves as a precursor to future judgments, such as those described in Revelation, where God's wrath is again poured out on a sinful world.

man and livestock, crawling creatures and birds of the air;
The specific mention of "man and livestock, crawling creatures and birds of the air" highlights the breadth of the destruction. This mirrors the creation account in Genesis 1, where God created these categories of life. The flood acts as a reversal of creation, where the order established by God is undone due to human sin. This phrase also serves to remind readers of the interconnectedness of creation and humanity's role as stewards of the earth, a role that was corrupted by sin.

they were blotted out from the earth,
The term "blotted out" conveys a sense of erasure or removal, indicating the thoroughness of the flood's impact. This language is reminiscent of ancient Near Eastern texts where divine judgment often involved the removal of life. Theologically, it underscores the seriousness of sin and the extent to which God will go to purify His creation. This phrase also foreshadows the final judgment, where those not found in the Book of Life are similarly "blotted out" (Revelation 20:15).

and only Noah and those with him in the ark remained.
This phrase highlights the theme of divine grace and salvation. Noah, described as a righteous man (Genesis 6:9), found favor in God's eyes and was preserved along with his family and the animals in the ark. The ark serves as a type of Christ, providing salvation and refuge from judgment. Just as Noah and his family were saved through the ark, believers are saved through faith in Jesus Christ. This remnant theology is a recurring theme in Scripture, where God preserves a faithful group through whom He continues His redemptive plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Noah
A righteous man chosen by God to survive the flood and preserve life on earth. He obeyed God's commands and built the ark.

2. 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.

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

4. The Earth
The entire planet, which was covered by the floodwaters, leading to the destruction of all life outside the ark.

5. God
The sovereign Creator who judged the earth's wickedness with the flood but showed mercy by preserving Noah and the ark's inhabitants.

Teaching Points

God's Judgment and Mercy
The flood demonstrates God's righteous judgment against sin and His mercy in providing a way of salvation through Noah and the ark.

Obedience to God's Commands
Noah's obedience in building the ark is a model for us to follow God's instructions, even when they seem daunting or countercultural.

Faith in Action
Noah's faith was evidenced by his actions. Our faith should also lead to tangible expressions of obedience and trust in God.

The Consequences of Sin
The destruction of all life outside the ark serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance.

Hope and Renewal
Just as God provided a new beginning for Noah and his family, He offers us new life through Jesus Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Noah's obedience to God's commands challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways can we prepare for Christ's return, as Jesus referenced the days of Noah in Matthew 24?

3. How does the account of the flood illustrate both God's justice and His mercy?

4. What are some modern-day "arks" or means of salvation that God provides for us, and how can we recognize them?

5. How can we, like Noah, be "preachers of righteousness" in a world that often rejects God's truth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 6:5-8
Provides context for God's decision to send the flood due to humanity's pervasive wickedness, highlighting Noah's righteousness.

Matthew 24:37-39
Jesus references the days of Noah to illustrate the suddenness of His return and the importance of being prepared.

2 Peter 2:5
Peter describes Noah as a "preacher of righteousness," emphasizing his role in warning others and his faithfulness.

Hebrews 11:7
Noah is commended for his faith, which led him to build the ark and become an heir of righteousness.

Revelation 3:10
Speaks of God's protection for the faithful during times of trial, paralleling Noah's preservation during the flood.