Genesis 7:23 - Verse Explanation
Verse Spotlight
This verse depicts the aftermath of the flood, where God wiped out all living creatures on earth due to their wickedness - except Noah, his family, and the animals in the ark. It's a sobering picture of God's judgement, but also a testament to His grace and mercy to those who obey Him.
Who Wrote It
Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelite people, wrote this. He included this detail to emphasize the severity of God's judgment on sin, but also the hope found in obedience. Noah's story is a reminder of God's willingness to preserve those who walk faithfully with Him, despite the surrounding corruption.
What It Means
This verse depicts the aftermath of the flood, where God wiped out all living creatures on earth due to their wickedness - except Noah, his family, and the animals in the ark. It's a sobering picture of God's judgement, but also a testament to His grace and mercy to those who obey Him.
Where and When
This event occurred early in human history, in a world consumed by sin. Culturally, this was a pre-Abrahamic society with no formal religious system. The flood became a historical turning point, marking a fresh new start for humanity under God's covenant promise.
Why It Matters
Genesis 7:23 is a reminder that our actions matter to God. While our world may not be physically destroyed in a flood, God still sees and judges sin. Yet, it also shows God's grace and willingness to save those who turn to Him - a theme that continues throughout the Bible and culminates in Jesus.
How to Apply
As modern believers, we can apply this verse by living in obedience to God, even when society does not. We can also take comfort in knowing that God sees, rewards faithfulness, and provides salvation - a hope we can share with those around us.
Chapter Context
This verse is the climax of the flood narrative in Genesis 7. Following the flood, God makes a covenant with Noah (and all of humanity), promising never to destroy the earth by flood again.
Key Biblical Words (Word Study)
- blotted - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
- out - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
- every - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
- living - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".