Genesis 6:3
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
My spirit shall not always strive - It is only by the influence of the Spirit of God that the carnal mind can be subdued and destroyed; but those who wilfully resist and grieve that Spirit must be ultimately left to the hardness and blindness of their own hearts, if they do not repent and turn to God. God delights in mercy, and therefore a gracious warning is given. Even at this time the earth was ripe for destruction; but God promised them one hundred and twenty years' respite: if they repented in that interim, well; if not, they should be destroyed by a flood. See the note on Gen 6:5
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
flesh--utterly, hopelessly debased. And the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive--Christ, as God, had by His Spirit inspiring Enoch, Noah, and perhaps other prophets (Pe1 3:20; Pe2 2:5; Jde 1:14), preached repentance to the antediluvians; but they were incorrigible. yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years--It is probable that the corruption of the world, which had now reached its height, had been long and gradually increasing, and this idea receives support from the long respite granted.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the Lord said,.... Not to Noah, as in Gen 6:13 for, as yet, he is not taken notice of, or any discourse addressed to him; but rather to or within himself, he said what follows, or thus concluded, and resolved on in his own mind: my Spirit shall not always strive with man; meaning either the soul of man, called the Spirit of God, Job 27:3 because of his creation, and is what he breathes and puts into men, and therefore is styled the Father of spirits; and which is in man, as some in Aben Ezra observe to be the sense the word used, as a sword in the scabbard; and so the meaning is, it shall not always abide there, but be unsheathed and drawn out; man shall not live always, since he is corrupt, and given to carnal lusts: or else, as Jarchi thinks, God himself is meant, and that the sense is, my Spirit shall not always contend within myself; or there shall not always be contention within me concerning man, whether I shall destroy him, or have mercy on him; I am at a point to punish him, since he is wholly carnal: or rather this is to be understood of the Holy Spirit of God, as the Targum of Jonathan, which agrees with Pe1 3:18 and to be thus interpreted; that the Spirit of God, which had been litigating and reasoning the point, as men do in a court of judicature, as the word signifies, with these men in the court, and at the bar of their own consciences, by one providence or by one minister or another, particularly by Noah, a preacher of righteousness, in vain, and to no purpose; therefore, he determines to proceed no longer in this way, but pass and execute the sentence of condemnation on them: for that he also is flesh; not only carnal and corrupt, but sadly corrupted, and wholly given up to and immersed in sensual lusts and carnal pleasures, so as not to be restrained nor reformed; even the posterity of Seth, professors of religion also, as well as the profane world and posterity of Cain: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years: meaning not the term of man's life, reduced to this from the length of time he lived before the flood; but this designs the space that God would give for repentance, before he proceeded to execute his vengeance on him; this is that "longsuffering of God" the apostle speaks of in the afore mentioned place, "that waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was preparing"; and so both the Targums of Onkelos and Jonathan interpret it of a space of an hundred and twenty years given them to repent: now whereas it was but an hundred years from the birth of Japheth to the flood, some think the space was shortened twenty years, because of their impenitence; but it is more probable what Jarchi observes, that this decree was made and given out twenty years before his birth, though here related, by a figure called "hysteron proteron", frequent in the Scriptures.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
This comes in here as a token of God's displeasure at those who married strange wives; he threatens to withdraw from them his Spirit, whom they had grieved by such marriages, contrary to their convictions: fleshly lusts are often punished with spiritual judgments, the sorest of all judgments. Or as another occasion of the great wickedness of the old world; the Spirit of the Lord, being provoked by their resistance of his motions, ceased to strive with them, and then all religion was soon lost among them. This he warns them of before, that they might not further vex his Holy Spirit, but by their prayers might stay him with them. Observe in this verse, I. God's resolution not always to strive with man by his Spirit. The Spirit then strove by Noah's preaching (Pe1 3:19, Pe1 3:20) and by inward checks, but it was in vain with the most of men; therefore, says God, He shall not always strive. Note, 1. The blessed Spirit strives with sinners, by the convictions and admonitions of conscience, to turn them from sin to God. 2. If the Spirit be resisted, quenched, and striven against, though he strive long, he will not strive always, Hos 4:17. 3. Those are ripening apace for ruin whom the Spirit of grace has left off striving with. II. The reason of this resolution: For that he also is flesh, that is, incurably corrupt, and carnal, and sensual, so that it is labour lost to strive with him. Can the Ethiopian change his skin? He also, that is, All, one as well as another, they have all sunk into the mire of flesh. Note, 1. It is the corrupt nature, and the inclination of the soul towards the flesh, that oppose the Spirit's strivings and render them ineffectual. 2. When a sinner has long adhered to that interest, and sided with the flesh against the Spirit, the Spirit justly withdraws his agency, and strives no more. None lose the Spirit's strivings but those that have first forfeited them. III. A reprieve granted, notwithstanding: Yet his days shall be one hundred and twenty years; so long I will defer the judgment they deserve, and give them space to prevent it by their repentance and reformation. Justice said, Cut them down; but mercy interceded, Lord, let them alone this year also; and so far mercy prevailed, that a reprieve was obtained for six-score years. Note, The time of God's patience and forbearance towards provoking sinners is sometimes long, but always limited: reprieves are not pardons; though God bear a great while, he will not bear always.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:3 will not put up with: Many think that this is an announcement of God’s decision to withdraw the restraining influence of his Spirit from human society and allow human wickedness to run its full course. Others think it means that God would withdraw his life-giving breath from humans at an earlier age (ruakh, the Hebrew term for “spirit,” can also mean “breath”; see 6:17; 7:22; see also Ps 104:29-30). • normal lifespan will be no more than 120 years (literally his days will be 120 years): It is possible that this was a new restriction on the number of years individuals would generally be allowed to live (so the NLT). However, for generations after the flood, humans lived well beyond 120 years (see, e.g., Gen 11:10-26). An alternative interpretation sees this as a 120-year grace period before the arrival of the flood (see Jon 3:4; Matt 24:37-38; 1 Pet 3:20; 2 Pet 2:5).
Genesis 6:3
Corruption on the Earth
2the sons of God saw that the daughters of men were beautiful, and they took as wives whomever they chose. 3So the LORD said, “My Spirit will not contend with man forever, for he is mortal; his days shall be 120 years.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(1 Peter - Part 29): False Teaching on Obscure Teaching
By A.W. Tozer12K34:43False TeachingGEN 6:3MAT 11:28MRK 7:37EPH 4:8HEB 9:271PE 3:181PE 4:6In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of salvation and the role of baptism in it. He emphasizes that very few people were saved in the past, highlighting the importance of having a good conscience towards God. The preacher also mentions the resurrection of Jesus Christ and his ascension into heaven, where he has authority over angels and powers. He then explains that Christ preached to the spirits in prison, who were alive in their spirit but had sinned in the flesh and were to be judged. The preacher supports his points with references to Ephesians 4:8-10 and the story of the flood in the Bible.
Baptism of Repentance
By Leonard Ravenhill8.3K1:25:30RepentanceGEN 6:3MAT 3:11MRK 1:8ACT 1:5ACT 2:4ROM 6:41CO 12:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the difference between walking in a normal regenerate state and walking in the power of the Holy Ghost. He highlights the radical transformation that occurs when someone is born again and filled with the Holy Spirit. The speaker uses the analogy of a rocket launch to illustrate the power of fire, comparing it to the power of the Holy Spirit. He also shares a testimony of a woman named Miss Swan who captivated a bored and tired congregation with her passionate testimony. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the biblical way of shining is through burning, which signifies being completely surrendered to God's will.
Grieving the Holy Spirit
By David Wilkerson5.3K47:08Holy SpiritGEN 6:3MAT 5:29MAT 18:8MRK 9:43ACT 5:1REV 2:16REV 3:16In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a man who was on the verge of losing everything due to his addiction. Despite asking for prayer, he couldn't resist getting high before an important meeting and ended up losing his company. The preacher emphasizes the importance of keeping our hearts open to the Holy Spirit and avoiding corrupt communication, such as watching movies that take God's name in vain or engage in pornography. He warns that indulging in such behavior grieves the Holy Spirit and can lead to spiritual adultery and idolatry. The preacher also addresses the issue of sin and encourages individuals to turn to God for forgiveness rather than running away and waiting for judgment.
The Ten Virgins (Reading)
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne3.3K1:03:16GEN 6:3ISA 63:10HOS 7:16MAT 6:33MAT 7:24MAT 25:1ACT 7:51In this sermon, Reverend Robert Murray McChain focuses on the parable of the ten virgins from Matthew 25:1-13. He addresses the congregation, dividing them into two classes: the wise and the foolish. The wise are those who have the gift of the Holy Spirit and show genuine sympathy and grace. They speak the language of Canaan and have a true relationship with God. On the other hand, the foolish are those who only profess their faith but lack the genuine presence of the Holy Spirit. Reverend McChain warns the unconverted members of the congregation about the consequences of their actions, urging them to repent and turn to God before it is too late.
(Genesis) Genesis 6:8-12
By J. Vernon McGee2.6K04:21GEN 3:15GEN 4:3GEN 6:3GEN 6:8HEB 11:5HEB 11:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of man's promise of a Redeemer and the need for humanity to look for a Savior. The story of Cain and Abel is used as an example of two contrasting systems of belief, representing the lost and the saved, the self-righteous and the broken-spirited. The preacher explains that God decided to send the flood because the earth had become corrupt and filled with violence, with humanity turning away from God's purpose. However, Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord because he was a just and righteous man who walked with God. His faith in God's warning led him to prepare an ark, demonstrating his trust in God's plan. The preacher also mentions that when the church is taken out, every believer will be included because it is for believers.
Standing Apart From the World
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:00:31WorldGEN 2:6GEN 6:3GEN 6:8MAT 24:37MAT 24:44In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Jesus' words in Matthew 24:37 about his return being like the days of Noah. He emphasizes the importance of being ready and alert for Jesus' second coming, rather than getting caught up in studying prophecy details. The preacher wonders if there were people in Noah's time who initially believed and attended his meetings, but eventually dropped out because they didn't see any immediate signs of the flood. Similarly, there will be people in the church who may initially follow Jesus but then leave because they feel they are missing out on worldly pleasures. The preacher encourages believers to stay faithful and ready for Jesus' return, as it will happen unexpectedly, just as the flood came unexpectedly in Noah's time.
Blood on Your Hands
By Chuck Smith2.1K28:39Guilty ConscienceGEN 6:3LAM 3:22EZK 1:4EZK 33:11REV 16:17REV 21:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes God's unfailing compassion and faithfulness towards the house of Israel. He highlights the influence our lives have on others, particularly as parents, and urges listeners to set a good example for their children. The preacher also addresses the consequences of sin and the need for repentance. He mentions the book of Ezekiel and its relevance to the study of God's Word. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the importance of staying faithful to God and delivering His message truthfully.
False Conclusions
By Chuck Smith2.1K39:43Christian LifeGEN 6:3PSA 50:1PSA 50:21ECC 8:11In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the patience of God and how it relates to the presence of evil in the world. He references Ecclesiastes 8:11, where Solomon declares that because punishment for evil deeds is not executed immediately, people are emboldened to continue doing evil. The speaker ponders the extent of God's patience in the face of a morally declining world and wonders when God will intervene. He also mentions the story of Noah and how Noah preached righteousness to the people, warning them of the impending judgment of God. The sermon emphasizes the importance of not being deceived by the apparent lack of consequences for evil actions, as God is aware and will eventually bring judgment.
A Layway, a Castaway and a Giveaway
By Jack Hyles2.0K34:46GEN 6:3PRO 27:1ECC 12:1MAT 6:33ROM 1:24In this sermon, Reverend Hiles shares a personal encounter with a man who had previously expressed interest in being saved but had repeatedly delayed making a decision. The man approached Reverend Hiles, visibly aged and filled with regret, stating that it was now too late for him. Reverend Hiles then proceeds to share three unique personalities he encountered: a layaway, a castaway, and a giveaway. The layaway represents someone who waits too long to accept salvation, while the castaway is someone who believes they are destined for hell. The sermon emphasizes the importance of not delaying in accepting salvation and highlights the urgency of making a decision before it is too late.
The Last Days & the Lord's Second Coming
By Zac Poonen2.0K58:15Last DaysGEN 6:3ISA 14:12MAT 24:2JHN 6:38HEB 11:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of the last days and how it relates to the present time. He highlights the widespread availability and consumption of pornography in today's society, comparing it to the days of Noah. The preacher emphasizes that God's Holy Spirit will not strive with mankind forever and that there will come a time when God will give up on those who continually reject Him. He also warns fathers about the influence they have on their children and the potential consequences of allowing them to engage in sinful activities. The preacher concludes by stating that in the last days, it will be challenging to be a true Christian as the standards of discipleship will be difficult to uphold.
The Day of Judgment
By Aaron Dunlop1.8K42:15Judgment Seat Of ChristGEN 6:3OBA 1:15MAT 7:2ROM 2:5GAL 6:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the judgment of God and its various aspects. The first aspect is the event of the judgment, which is referred to as the day of the Lord. The second aspect is the law by which this judgment is dispensed, which is the principle of retribution or "eye for an eye." The speaker emphasizes that there are only three options to deal with God's judgment: accepting Christ's sacrifice, bearing the judgment oneself in hell, or rejecting the gospel and facing God's judgment. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the invitation of Christ is certain and that God will judge those who reject the gospel.
The Four Warnings of God
By Keith Daniel1.8K1:02:41WarningGEN 2:3GEN 3:22GEN 6:3ISA 40:9REV 20:11In this sermon, Brother Denny discusses four gripping moments in the Bible where God looked and warned humanity. Firstly, God warned mankind during the creation, urging them not to harden their hearts. Secondly, God warned mankind when corruption entered the world and led to their separation from Him. Thirdly, God warned mankind about the importance of accepting salvation through Jesus Christ. Lastly, God warned mankind about their ultimate destination, as described in the book of Revelation. The sermon emphasizes the urgency of seeking God and accepting His gift of eternal life while there is still time.
(Genesis #8) Safe Through Judgement
By J. Glyn Owen1.4K51:41PreservationGEN 6:3GEN 6:5ISA 5:20MAT 6:33MAT 7:24ROM 14:12REV 20:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the state of the world and the need for God's judgment. He emphasizes the social consequences of sin throughout history, highlighting the damage it has caused to individuals, families, and society. The preacher quotes verses from Genesis 6 to support the idea that God has determined to destroy mankind due to the violence and wickedness on earth. He warns that if the Creator declares destruction, it will surely happen. Overall, the sermon focuses on the state of the world and the impending judgment of God.
History of Revival (1740-1851), 3
By Ian Murray1.2K49:23GEN 6:3PSA 95:7ISA 40:1ISA 55:6MAT 7:72PE 3:9REV 3:20In this sermon transcript, the speaker describes a powerful scene that took place in 1843 in Virginia. An old man, despite physical exhaustion, delivers a sermon that deeply moves the congregation. The sermon is based on the evening text, "the harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved." The speaker emphasizes the urgency of preparing one's soul for death and appeals to sinners to give their hearts to God. The transcript also mentions the impact of sacramental seasons and the personal experience of being moved by a sermon on Revelation 3:20.
Genesis 6 v 3
By J. Douglas Macmillan1.2K58:15Christian LifeGEN 6:3GEN 6:8MRK 6:20JHN 1:11ROM 1:24In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the state of western civilization and the need for revival or judgment from God. He emphasizes that God's spirit strives with mankind, seeking to vindicate righteousness and teach the consequences of sin. The speaker references the story of Cain and his descendants as an example of the ungodly line that shaped civilization. He concludes by expressing the anticipation and importance of the final meeting and the need for individuals to have certainty in their faith.
Relationships With Fools Part 2
By Chuck Smith1.0K25:04RelationshipsGEN 6:3PRO 26:20PRO 29:1PRO 29:17In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith addresses the issue of lawlessness and violence in society, particularly drive-by shootings. He expresses his frustration and weariness with the state of the world, but also emphasizes that the righteous will eventually see the fall of the wicked. Pastor Chuck encourages listeners to turn to God and allow His Spirit to fill their hearts and bring them peace and satisfaction. He concludes by discussing the importance of correcting and disciplining children, as well as the significance of having a vision from God to guide and protect us.
Revival Stories: Asahel Nettleton
By E.A. Johnston91618:26BiographyGEN 6:3PSA 46:10PRO 27:17MAT 6:33ACT 2:371PE 5:6REV 3:20In this sermon transcript, Asahel Nettleton describes a powerful revival of religion that took place in Nassau during the Second Great Awakening. He shares how his preaching pierced the hearts of the congregation, leading many to experience deep distress and seek relief in Christ. The revival spread rapidly, with hundreds of souls being born into the kingdom of Christ. Nettleton urges his listeners to pray for revival in their own time, emphasizing the need for a heaven-sent revival to save America.
Tophet - the Beating of Drums - Part 3 by Robert Wurtz
By Robert Wurtz II88728:17GEN 6:3ISA 14:12ACT 7:51ACT 9:5ROM 2:4This sermon delves into the consequences for those who resist God's attempts at drawing them to repentance, using biblical references from Genesis, Acts, Romans, and Isaiah. It explores the pride and downfall of Lucifer, emphasizing the danger of resisting God's call to repentance and the ultimate destiny of those who persist in rebellion. The sermon challenges listeners to reflect on the distractions in their lives that prevent them from acknowledging their need for Christ and the urgency of making a decision before it's too late.
God's Striving Is Not Forever
By Kjell Olsen86158:42GEN 6:3GEN 6:5PRO 28:13In this sermon, the preacher discusses the prevalence of violence and corruption in society, using the example of a recent rape incident at a university hostel. He emphasizes that violence begins in the heart and includes not only physical acts but also anger and hatred towards others. The preacher also highlights the idolization of vile behavior and the downward spiral of evil that led God to decide to destroy mankind. He concludes by urging listeners to prioritize their relationship with God over worldly popularity and to seek deliverance from distractions and worries.
Five Sins Against the Holy Spirit
By William Blackburn81538:27Holy SpiritGEN 6:3PRO 1:24PRO 1:26MAT 6:33GAL 5:16HEB 3:7HEB 3:15In this sermon, preacher Joe Henry Hankins shares a true story about an 18-year-old boy who attended a Sunday night service at First Baptist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas. The boy felt a strong conviction to give his heart to Jesus during the invitation, but he struggled with a sin in his life that he didn't want to give up. Eventually, he ran out of the church without getting saved. Weeks later, when he was diagnosed with leukemia and had little time left to live, Hankins visited him in the hospital and urged him to give his heart to Christ. However, the boy expressed that he had lost all desire to be saved. Despite the urgency of his situation, he felt unable to repent and accept Jesus as his Savior.
Pressures of Christianity 04 Godly Seed Under Pressure
By Harry Deutchman71844:40GEN 5:28GEN 6:3GEN 6:5GEN 6:13GEN 6:17GEN 7:23MAT 24:37In this sermon, the preacher discusses three main points: feeding, defense, and instruction. He emphasizes the parallel between the past and the present, specifically focusing on the population explosion and its consequences. The preacher refers to the story of Noah and the flood as an example of God's judgment on a world that had experienced a great increase in population. He also highlights the moral decline and confusion that can occur when the godly and ungodly mix together. The sermon encourages listeners to reflect on these parallels and consider the importance of staying faithful to God in a world filled with violence and confusion.
When Jesus of Nazareth Passes By
By Brian Long5951:00:32JesusGEN 6:3AMO 7:8AMO 8:2LUK 18:351CO 6:92CO 5:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a living relationship with Jesus Christ. He references the story of Noah and the flood as an example of God's patience and pleading with people to repent. The preacher also discusses the feeding of the 4,000 and highlights Jesus' compassion for the multitude. He warns against being spiritually blind and urges listeners to have a heart that is broken over the lost and loves what God loves. The sermon concludes with a poem by Zach Poonin that encourages self-reflection and surrender to God's will.
The Holy Spirit - Part 1
By Ken Baird52248:40GEN 6:3JHN 14:16JHN 16:12REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a series of disturbing dreams where he felt he was on the wrong side of judgment. He emphasizes the importance of relying on the leading of the Holy Spirit rather than our own devices or expediency. The speaker then turns to the 16th chapter of John's Gospel, highlighting the role of the Spirit of Truth in guiding believers into all truth and showing them things to come. He also references the Book of Acts, specifically the warning given to Paul through the Spirit not to go to Jerusalem. The speaker concludes by urging listeners to consider the activity of the Holy Spirit in their own personal experiences.
Russian Roulette
By Jack Hyles0GEN 6:3GEN 15:16EXO 8:1HOS 4:17MAT 24:42ROM 1:26ROM 1:28HEB 9:27Jack Hyles preaches about the spiritual Russian Roulette many play, more dangerous than any man-made game, highlighting the certainty of facing three set dates in life: the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, the date of one's death, and the last chance for salvation. Urging listeners to be prepared for the unknown, as Jesus could come at any moment, death is inevitable, and the last chance for salvation may pass unexpectedly. Hyles shares personal stories emphasizing the importance of not delaying in accepting Christ and avoiding playing Russian Roulette with God.
1 Peter 3:19
By John Gill0The Nature of SalvationChrist's PreachingGEN 6:3MAT 12:41LUK 16:22JHN 8:58ROM 10:14EPH 2:17HEB 1:21PE 3:192PE 2:5REV 20:7John Gill explores 1 Peter 3:19, discussing the various interpretations of Christ's preaching to the spirits in prison. He argues against the notion that Christ's human soul descended to hell or a place called 'Limbus Patrum' to save the Old Testament saints, emphasizing that the text refers to Christ's divine nature and the spirits of the disobedient. Gill concludes that the passage likely refers to Christ preaching through Noah to the people of his time, who ultimately faced judgment for their disobedience. He highlights that Christ existed in his divine nature before his incarnation and actively fulfilled his role as Mediator even in the Old Testament. The sermon underscores the continuity of the Gospel message throughout biblical history.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
My spirit shall not always strive - It is only by the influence of the Spirit of God that the carnal mind can be subdued and destroyed; but those who wilfully resist and grieve that Spirit must be ultimately left to the hardness and blindness of their own hearts, if they do not repent and turn to God. God delights in mercy, and therefore a gracious warning is given. Even at this time the earth was ripe for destruction; but God promised them one hundred and twenty years' respite: if they repented in that interim, well; if not, they should be destroyed by a flood. See the note on Gen 6:5
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
flesh--utterly, hopelessly debased. And the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive--Christ, as God, had by His Spirit inspiring Enoch, Noah, and perhaps other prophets (Pe1 3:20; Pe2 2:5; Jde 1:14), preached repentance to the antediluvians; but they were incorrigible. yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years--It is probable that the corruption of the world, which had now reached its height, had been long and gradually increasing, and this idea receives support from the long respite granted.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the Lord said,.... Not to Noah, as in Gen 6:13 for, as yet, he is not taken notice of, or any discourse addressed to him; but rather to or within himself, he said what follows, or thus concluded, and resolved on in his own mind: my Spirit shall not always strive with man; meaning either the soul of man, called the Spirit of God, Job 27:3 because of his creation, and is what he breathes and puts into men, and therefore is styled the Father of spirits; and which is in man, as some in Aben Ezra observe to be the sense the word used, as a sword in the scabbard; and so the meaning is, it shall not always abide there, but be unsheathed and drawn out; man shall not live always, since he is corrupt, and given to carnal lusts: or else, as Jarchi thinks, God himself is meant, and that the sense is, my Spirit shall not always contend within myself; or there shall not always be contention within me concerning man, whether I shall destroy him, or have mercy on him; I am at a point to punish him, since he is wholly carnal: or rather this is to be understood of the Holy Spirit of God, as the Targum of Jonathan, which agrees with Pe1 3:18 and to be thus interpreted; that the Spirit of God, which had been litigating and reasoning the point, as men do in a court of judicature, as the word signifies, with these men in the court, and at the bar of their own consciences, by one providence or by one minister or another, particularly by Noah, a preacher of righteousness, in vain, and to no purpose; therefore, he determines to proceed no longer in this way, but pass and execute the sentence of condemnation on them: for that he also is flesh; not only carnal and corrupt, but sadly corrupted, and wholly given up to and immersed in sensual lusts and carnal pleasures, so as not to be restrained nor reformed; even the posterity of Seth, professors of religion also, as well as the profane world and posterity of Cain: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years: meaning not the term of man's life, reduced to this from the length of time he lived before the flood; but this designs the space that God would give for repentance, before he proceeded to execute his vengeance on him; this is that "longsuffering of God" the apostle speaks of in the afore mentioned place, "that waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was preparing"; and so both the Targums of Onkelos and Jonathan interpret it of a space of an hundred and twenty years given them to repent: now whereas it was but an hundred years from the birth of Japheth to the flood, some think the space was shortened twenty years, because of their impenitence; but it is more probable what Jarchi observes, that this decree was made and given out twenty years before his birth, though here related, by a figure called "hysteron proteron", frequent in the Scriptures.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
This comes in here as a token of God's displeasure at those who married strange wives; he threatens to withdraw from them his Spirit, whom they had grieved by such marriages, contrary to their convictions: fleshly lusts are often punished with spiritual judgments, the sorest of all judgments. Or as another occasion of the great wickedness of the old world; the Spirit of the Lord, being provoked by their resistance of his motions, ceased to strive with them, and then all religion was soon lost among them. This he warns them of before, that they might not further vex his Holy Spirit, but by their prayers might stay him with them. Observe in this verse, I. God's resolution not always to strive with man by his Spirit. The Spirit then strove by Noah's preaching (Pe1 3:19, Pe1 3:20) and by inward checks, but it was in vain with the most of men; therefore, says God, He shall not always strive. Note, 1. The blessed Spirit strives with sinners, by the convictions and admonitions of conscience, to turn them from sin to God. 2. If the Spirit be resisted, quenched, and striven against, though he strive long, he will not strive always, Hos 4:17. 3. Those are ripening apace for ruin whom the Spirit of grace has left off striving with. II. The reason of this resolution: For that he also is flesh, that is, incurably corrupt, and carnal, and sensual, so that it is labour lost to strive with him. Can the Ethiopian change his skin? He also, that is, All, one as well as another, they have all sunk into the mire of flesh. Note, 1. It is the corrupt nature, and the inclination of the soul towards the flesh, that oppose the Spirit's strivings and render them ineffectual. 2. When a sinner has long adhered to that interest, and sided with the flesh against the Spirit, the Spirit justly withdraws his agency, and strives no more. None lose the Spirit's strivings but those that have first forfeited them. III. A reprieve granted, notwithstanding: Yet his days shall be one hundred and twenty years; so long I will defer the judgment they deserve, and give them space to prevent it by their repentance and reformation. Justice said, Cut them down; but mercy interceded, Lord, let them alone this year also; and so far mercy prevailed, that a reprieve was obtained for six-score years. Note, The time of God's patience and forbearance towards provoking sinners is sometimes long, but always limited: reprieves are not pardons; though God bear a great while, he will not bear always.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:3 will not put up with: Many think that this is an announcement of God’s decision to withdraw the restraining influence of his Spirit from human society and allow human wickedness to run its full course. Others think it means that God would withdraw his life-giving breath from humans at an earlier age (ruakh, the Hebrew term for “spirit,” can also mean “breath”; see 6:17; 7:22; see also Ps 104:29-30). • normal lifespan will be no more than 120 years (literally his days will be 120 years): It is possible that this was a new restriction on the number of years individuals would generally be allowed to live (so the NLT). However, for generations after the flood, humans lived well beyond 120 years (see, e.g., Gen 11:10-26). An alternative interpretation sees this as a 120-year grace period before the arrival of the flood (see Jon 3:4; Matt 24:37-38; 1 Pet 3:20; 2 Pet 2:5).