Genesis 8: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Genesis 8 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Genesis chapter 8 narrates the aftermath of the great flood, focusing on God's promise and renewal of creation. After 150 days, God remembers Noah and the animals aboard the ark. He causes the waters to recede, allowing the land to dry.

Key verse

“Noah built an altar to Yahweh, and took of every clean animal, and of every clean bird, and offered burnt offerings on the altar.”
Genesis 8:20 (WEB)

Outline

Genesis 8:1–4 God Remembers Noah
Genesis 8:5–12 Noah's Test with Birds
Genesis 8:13–14 Earth Is Dried
Genesis 8:15–19 God's Command to Leave the Ark
Genesis 8:20–21 Noah Builds an Altar
Genesis 8:22 God's Covenant with Creation

Discussion questions

In v7, why does Noah send out a raven first?
What does the dove bring back in v11, and what does it signify?
God's promise in v21: how does it address humanity's sinful nature?
Why does Noah build an altar and offer sacrifices in v20?
When have you experienced a period of waiting like Noah before new beginnings?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Genesis 8: Genesis 7, Genesis 1, Jeremiah 17.

Before next time: read Genesis 9.