Genesis 6: Group Study Handout

Overview

In Genesis chapter 6, we encounter a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative as the wickedness of humanity becomes overwhelming. The chapter begins by describing how the sons of God took the daughters of men as wives, leading to a blending of the human and the divine that resulted in great corruption on the earth. God observes the extent of human evil and decides to limit human lifespan to 120 years, indicating a significant shift in His relationship with humanity. The mention of the Nephilim, mighty men of renown, raises questions about the nature of these beings and the context of their existence in relation to God's creation.

Key verse

“Yahweh said, “My Spirit will not strive with man forever, because he also is flesh; so his days will be one hundred twenty years.”

Genesis 6:3 (WEB)

Outline

1. Genesis 6:1–2 The Rise of Humanity
2. Genesis 6:3–4 God's Grief and Judgment
3. Genesis 6:5–7 The Universal Corruption
4. Genesis 6:8–10 Noah's Favor with God
5. Genesis 6:11–13 The Call to Action
6. Genesis 6:14–21 Instructions for the Ark
7. Genesis 6:22 Noah's Obedience

Discussion questions

1. In v8, who found favor in Yahweh's eyes?
2. What does Yahweh say about the wickedness of man in v5?
3. Yahweh's statement in v3: why is His Spirit said not to strive with man forever?
4. The mention of the Nephilim in v4 raises questions about their nature: what are they?
5. When have you felt called to act with obedience as Noah did in v22?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Genesis 6: Genesis 7, Jeremiah 17, Hebrews 11.

Before next time: read Genesis 7.