Understanding Genesis 6:14
Verse: Genesis 6:14 - "Make thee an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch."
Genesis 6:14 is a pivotal verse in the narrative of the Great Flood, illustrating God's command to Noah to construct an ark as a means of salvation. This verse is rich in thematic connections and shows God's provision and instructions amid imminent judgment.
Commentary Insights
Matthew Henry's Commentary
Matthew Henry emphasizes that God's instruction to Noah signifies His mercy and desire for preservation, not just of Noah, but of every kind of living creature. The specific instruction to build an ark out of gopher wood speaks to the divine details in God's plans, illustrating that God provides all necessary specifications for carrying out His will.
Albert Barnes' Commentary
Albert Barnes points out that the ark symbolizes a shelter created through obedience to God’s command. The term "gopher wood," while uncertain in its exact identification, reflects the importance of using the right materials, emphasizing that God’s plans are perfect, and human compliance is crucial for salvation and deliverance from judgment.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Adam Clarke elaborates on the significance of the construction details, like "rooms" in the ark, hinting at the order and care God takes in His creation. Clarke suggests this reflects both physical and spiritual shelter, highlighting how God’s detailed directions serve to provide safety and comfort amid overwhelming trial and danger.
Bible Cross-References and Thematic Connections
- Hebrews 11:7: Highlights Noah's faith in constructing the ark, illustrating the connection between faith and obedience.
- Genesis 7:1: God's command to Noah to enter the ark, showing a continuation of God's plan for salvation.
- Exodus 2:3: The act of hiding Moses in a basket ties into the theme of preservation through a vessel, illustrating God’s protective measures.
- Matthew 24:37-39: Jesus refers to the days of Noah, emphasizing the need for vigilance as similar judgments await humanity.
- 1 Peter 3:20: Noah's actions are cited to illustrate the idea of deliverance through faith amidst divine judgment.
- Genesis 1:22: The command to be fruitful and multiply, linking to the preservation of creation as a key theme in the Flood narrative.
- Isaiah 54:9: This verse connects God’s covenant with Noah after the flood, revealing God's faithfulness to His promises.
Thematic Analysis
This verse and its surrounding context reveal multiple themes, such as:
- Divine Providence: The construction of the ark represents God's providential care in securing a remnant of creation.
- Judgment and Mercy: While judgment is imminent, God's mercy provides a means of escape.
- Obedience: Noah’s response to God’s command exemplifies the importance of faithful obedience.
- Salvation Archetype: The ark serves as a precursor to notions of salvation found throughout scripture, pointing towards Christ as the ultimate means of salvation.
Exploring Cross-Referencing Methods
To fully grasp the significance of Genesis 6:14, one can utilize tools for Bible cross-referencing. A Bible concordance is valuable for identifying connections between verses, enhancing one’s understanding of scriptural parallels and thematic linkages.
Several methods can be employed:
- Bible cross-reference guide: These tools help identify similar themes or stories across scripture.
- Cross-reference Bible study: Engaging with multiple verses concurrently can illuminate connections and deepen comprehension.
- Identifying connections between Old and New Testament: Observations from Genesis 6:14 can be compared with New Testament representations of salvation.
Conclusion
Genesis 6:14 not only tells the story of Noah's ark but enriches the reader's understanding of the interplay of judgment and divine mercy, the necessity of obedience, and the overarching theme of God's salvific plan for humanity. By utilizing the extensive cross-referencing capabilities and thematic correlations within scripture, one can develop a more profound grasp of this text and its implications throughout the Biblical narrative.
