Genesis 6:20: “Two of every kind of bird, of every kind of animal and of every kind of creature that moves along the ground will come to you to be kept alive.”
Extended Explanation
Genesis 6:20 is part of God’s instructions to Noah as he prepares for the Great Flood. In this verse, God specifies that two of every kind of bird, animal, and creature that moves along the ground will come to Noah to be kept alive. The key point here is that the animals will come to Noah, indicating that God Himself is orchestrating their gathering. Noah’s responsibility is to care for these creatures, ensuring their survival during and after the flood.
This verse underscores the importance of preserving life as part of God’s plan. By bringing these animals to Noah, God is ensuring that every species will continue after the flood, maintaining the diversity and balance of His creation.
Historical Context
The historical context of Genesis 6:20 is the period just before the flood, when the earth had become so corrupt that God decided to cleanse it with a massive flood. God chose Noah, a righteous man, to build an ark that would preserve not only his family but also the animal kingdom. This was a time when humanity’s sinfulness had reached a peak, prompting God’s judgment through the floodwaters.
In the ancient world, the idea of saving animals during a catastrophe was not commonly emphasized, making the biblical account unique in its focus on preserving the natural world. The gathering of animals to the ark reflects the broader biblical theme of God’s care for all His creation, not just humans.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Genesis 6:20 highlights God’s sovereignty and His active role in preserving life. The fact that the animals would come to Noah indicates that God is in control of the natural world and that His creation responds to His command. This verse also reflects God’s intention to restore and sustain life after judgment, demonstrating His commitment to the continuity of His creation.
The verse also speaks to the relationship between humans and animals in God’s plan. Noah is given the responsibility to care for the animals, which emphasizes the role of humans as stewards of God’s creation. This stewardship is not just about using the earth’s resources but about preserving and caring for the life that God has created.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, Genesis 6:20 continues the detailed instructions that God gives to Noah regarding the preservation of life. The verse’s structure is straightforward, listing the different types of creatures—birds, animals, and creatures that move along the ground. The repetition of the phrase “of every kind” emphasizes the comprehensiveness of God’s plan to preserve life.
The phrase “will come to you” is significant because it shifts the responsibility of gathering the animals from Noah to God. This literary choice highlights God’s direct involvement in the preservation of His creation, reinforcing the theme of divine sovereignty and provision.
Biblical Cross-References
Several other passages in the Bible echo the themes found in Genesis 6:20:
- Genesis 2:19: “Now the Lord God had formed out of the ground all the wild animals and all the birds in the sky. He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name.” This verse also shows God bringing animals to humans, emphasizing human responsibility for them.
- Job 12:10: “In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” This verse underscores God’s control and care over all living things.
- Psalm 50:10-11: “For every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine.” This psalm reflects God’s ownership and knowledge of all creatures, reinforcing the themes of Genesis 6:20.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Genesis 6:20 is a reminder of the importance of trusting in God’s provision and care. Just as Noah trusted that God would bring the animals to him, believers are called to trust that God will provide what is needed to fulfill His purposes. This verse also encourages Christians to recognize their role as stewards of God’s creation, caring for the earth and all its inhabitants as part of their faithfulness to God.
This verse also challenges Christians to consider how they can be faithful in the small, practical tasks of life, knowing that even these are part of God’s larger plan. Noah’s responsibility to care for the animals is a powerful example of how everyday obedience can have significant spiritual implications.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Genesis 6:20 reflects God’s love in His care for every aspect of His creation. God’s provision of a way to preserve all kinds of creatures during the flood demonstrates His commitment to the well-being of all life. This verse shows that God’s love is not limited to humans but extends to all living things, reflecting His character as the Creator who delights in His creation.
God’s love is also evident in the way He makes provision for the future. By ensuring that animals are preserved, God is preparing for the restoration of the earth after the flood, showing that His judgment is not the end but a means to a new beginning. This verse highlights that God’s love includes both His justice and His mercy, working together to fulfill His purposes.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Genesis 6:20 connects to Jesus Christ by illustrating the broader theme of preservation and salvation found throughout Scripture. Just as Noah’s ark served as a vessel to preserve life during the flood, Jesus is the vessel through which humanity is saved from the consequences of sin. The gathering of the animals to the ark symbolizes the gathering of people to Christ, who offers salvation and new life.
In John 10:16, Jesus says, “I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.” This reflects the idea of God gathering all people to Himself through Christ, much like the animals were gathered to the ark. In both cases, God’s provision is at the heart of His plan to save and preserve life.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does God’s instruction to bring animals into the ark challenge you to think about your role in caring for God’s creation today?
- In what ways can you trust God’s provision and guidance in your own life, following Noah’s example of obedience?
- How does this verse help you understand the importance of stewardship over all life and the environment?
- How does the connection between the ark and Jesus’ role in preserving life deepen your understanding of God’s plan for salvation?
- What steps can you take to ensure that you are living in a way that reflects God’s care for all creation and His love for life?
Reflecting on these questions can help deepen your understanding of Genesis 6:20 and its relevance to your life today.