Commentary on Genesis 6:7

Genesis 6:7 states: "So the LORD said, 'I will destroy mankind, whom I have created, from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them.' This verse encapsulates one of the most profound moments in biblical history, reflecting both the sorrow of God and the gravity of human sin.

Contextual Overview

In the preceding chapters, we witness the gradual moral degradation of humanity leading up to this pivotal moment. The Scripture reveals that the wickedness of man was great on the earth, and every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually (Genesis 6:5). This overwhelming corruption prompted God's sorrow and decision to cleanse the earth through judgment.

The Divine Resolve to Destroy

In this verse, we see a dual emphasis on God's sovereignty and His emotional response to human sin. As noted by Matthew Henry, God's declaration to destroy emphasizes His authority over creation. Yet, it is coupled with a statement of grief or regret. This anthropomorphic expression helps readers understand God's holiness as being grieved by sin:

• God's Sovereignty: The ability to erase His creation signals His ultimate control over all things, indicating that nothing occurs outside of His will.
• God's Emotional Nature: The phrase "I am sorry that I have made them" reveals divine feelings, suggesting a relational aspect between God and humankind. Henry remarks that this does not imply a flaw in God, but rather underscores His justice and righteousness in dealing with sin.

The Implications of Sin

God’s resolve reflects the gravity of sin and its consequences. As Albert Barnes interprets, the phrase underscores the comprehensive nature of the judgment: not only man will be destroyed, but also beasts, creeping things, and birds. This highlights the interconnectedness of creation. Barnes states:

• Human sin has a ripple effect, impacting the entire created order.
• God’s judgment serves as a sober reminder of the seriousness of sin in His eyes.

Theological Reflections

Adam Clarke provides insightful theological reflections on this verse. He argues that the enormity of the sin committed by humanity led God’s heart to grieve. Clarke further speculates on the implications of human choice:

• Human Agency: God granted mankind free will, allowing them to choose their path. The exercise of this free will resulted in profound evil, demonstrating the catastrophic potential of human decision-making.
• The Essence of Repentance: In God's grief, there is an inherent call for repentance. Clarke emphasizes that God's sorrow was not merely for the act of creation but for the lost relationship that sin had inflicted.

Reflection for Pastors and Theologians

This verse serves as a pivotal teaching moment for pastors and theologians. Reflecting on God's judgment provides a profound platform for discussing the nature of sin, divine justice, and mercy:

• The Nature of God: Understanding God's dual nature as both loving and just provides a fuller picture of His character, enriching theological discourse.
• Call to Holiness: This passage encourages a call to holiness, reminding believers of the serious nature of sin and its consequences. The emotional response of God towards sin serves as a motivation for heartfelt repentance.
• The Precedence for Grace: The eventual emergence of Noah as a righteous remnant foreshadows God's grace amidst judgment. This encourages a discussion about hope and redemption in the narrative of humanity.

Conclusion

Genesis 6:7 is a poignant reminder of the consequences of sin, the sovereignty of God, and the grief that arises when human beings stray from the intended relationship with their Creator. Through the insights of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we uncover layers of meaning that resonate with theologians, pastors, and scholars alike. As we reflect on this verse, we are challenged to consider our actions, the integrity of our hearts, and the holiness of the God we serve.