Genesis 6:8
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord - Why? Because he was, 1. A just man, איש צדיק ish tsaddik, a man who gave to all their due; for this is the ideal meaning of the original word. 2. He was perfect in his generation - he was in all things a consistent character, never departing from the truth in principle or practice. 3. He walked with God - he was not only righteous in his conduct, but he was pious, and had continual communion with God. The same word is used here as before in the case of Enoch. See Gen 5:22.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord--favor. What an awful state of things when only one man or one family of piety and virtue was now existing among the professed sons of God!
John Gill Bible Commentary
But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. This man and his family were the only exception to the general apostasy; God always reserves some, in the worst of times, for himself; there is a remnant, according to the election of grace; it was but a small one, and that now appeared; and this was owing to the grace of God, and his choice upon that, and not to the merits of the creature. This grace, which Noah found and shared in, was the favour and good will of God; Noah was grateful and acceptable to him; he was well pleased with him in Christ; his person, services, and sacrifices, were acceptable to him through the Beloved; though he might not be acceptable in the eyes of men, who derided him for his piety and devotion, and especially for his prediction of the flood, and making an ark to save him and his family from it; yet he was very acceptable in the eyes of the Lord, and grateful in his sight, and was favoured with grace from him, who is the God of all grace, and with all the supplies of it: the Jerusalem Targum is, he"found grace and mercy;''the grace he found was not on account of his own merit, but on account of the mercy of God: and this shows that he was not without sin, or he would have stood in no need of the mercy and grace of God to save him; and as he found grace and favour in things spiritual, so in things temporal; he found favour with God, and therefore he and his family were spared, when the whole world of the ungodly were destroyed; he found favour with God, and therefore was directed by him to build an ark, for the saving of himself and his; he found favour with him, and therefore he had the honour of being the preserver of mankind, and the father of a new world. But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. This man and his family were the only exception to the general apostasy; God always reserves some, in the worst of times, for himself; there is a remnant, according to the election of grace; it was but a small one, and that now appeared; and this was owing to the grace of God, and his choice upon that, and not to the merits of the creature. This grace, which Noah found and shared in, was the favour and good will of God; Noah was grateful and acceptable to him; he was well pleased with him in Christ; his person, services, and sacrifices, were acceptable to him through the Beloved; though he might not be acceptable in the eyes of men, who derided him for his piety and devotion, and especially for his prediction of the flood, and making an ark to save him and his family from it; yet he was very acceptable in the eyes of the Lord, and grateful in his sight, and was favoured with grace from him, who is the God of all grace, and with all the supplies of it: the Jerusalem Targum is, he"found grace and mercy;''the grace he found was not on account of his own merit, but on account of the mercy of God: and this shows that he was not without sin, or he would have stood in no need of the mercy and grace of God to save him; and as he found grace and favour in things spiritual, so in things temporal; he found favour with God, and therefore he and his family were spared, when the whole world of the ungodly were destroyed; he found favour with God, and therefore was directed by him to build an ark, for the saving of himself and his; he found favour with him, and therefore he had the honour of being the preserver of mankind, and the father of a new world. Genesis 6:9 gen 6:9 gen 6:9 gen 6:9These are the generations of Noah,.... Or this is the account of his posterity, of the persons that were generated by him, that sprung from him, and peopled the earth after the flood, who are mentioned in the next verse, what follows being to be put in a parenthesis; as the genealogy of Adam is carried on from Adam to Noah, Gen 5:1 so the old world ending at the flood, the genealogy of the new world begins with Noah: though Aben Ezra and Ben Gersome interpret the word "events", things which days bring forth, Pro 27:1 these are the events or the things which befell Noah, of which an account is given in this and some following chapters, whose character is next observed: Noah was a just man; not only before men, but in the sight of God; and not by his own works of righteousness, for no man is just by them before God, but by the righteousness of the promised seed, the Messiah; for he "became heir of the righteousness which is by faith", Heb 11:7 the righteousness which was to be brought in by the Son of God, and which was revealed to him from faith to faith; and which by faith he received and lived upon, as every just man does, and believed in as his justifying righteousness before God; though he also lived a holy and righteous conversation before men, which may rather be intended in the next part of his character: and perfect in his generations; not that he was perfectly holy, or free from sin, but was a partaker of the true grace of God; was sincere and upright in heart and life; lived an unblemished life and conversation, untainted with the gross corruptions of that age he lived in, which he escaped through the knowledge, grace, and fear of God; and therefore it is added, that he was holy, upright, and blameless "in his generations": among the men of the several generations he lived in, as in the generation before the flood, which was very corrupt indeed, and which corruption was the cause of that; and in the generation after the flood: or "in his ages" (w), in the several stages of his life, in youth and in old age; he was throughout the whole course of his life a holy good man. And Noah walked with God: walked according to his will, in the ways of truth and righteousness; walked in a manner well pleasing to him, and enjoyed much communion with him, as Enoch had done before him, Gen 5:22. (w) "in aetatibus suis", Drusius, Junius & Tremellius, Piscator, Cocceius.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have here Noah distinguished from the rest of the world, and a peculiar mark of honour put upon him. 1. When God was displeased with the rest of the world, he favoured Noah: But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord, Gen 6:8. This vindicates God's justice in his displeasure against the world, and shows that he had strictly examined the character of every person in it before he pronounced it universally corrupt; for, there being one good man, he found him out, and smiled upon him. It also magnifies his grace towards Noah that he was made a vessel of God's mercy when all mankind besides had become the generation of his wrath: distinguishing favours bring under peculiarly strong obligations. Probably Noah did not find favour in the eyes of men; they hated and persecuted him, because both by his life and preaching he condemned the world. But he found grace in the eyes of the Lord, and this was honour and comfort enough. God made more account of Noah than of all the world besides, and this made him greater and more truly honourable than all the giants that were in those days, who became mighty men and men of renown. Let this be the summit of our ambition, to find grace in the eyes of the Lord; herein let us labour, that, present or absent, we may be accepted of him, Co2 5:9. Those are highly favoured whom God favours. 2. When the rest of the world was corrupt and wicked, Noah kept his integrity: These are the generations of Noah (this is the account we have to give of him), Noah was a just man, Gen 6:9. This character of Noah comes in here either, (1.) As the reason of God's favour to him; his singular piety qualified him for singular tokens of God's loving-kindness. Those that would find grace in the eyes of the Lord must be as Noah was and do as Noah did; God loves those that love him: or, (2.) As the effect of God's favour to him. It was God's good-will to him that produced this good work in him. He was a very good man, but he was no better than the grace of God made him, Co1 15:10. Now observe his character. [1.] He was a just man, that is, justified before God by faith in the promised seed; for he was an heir of the righteousness which is by faith, Heb 11:7. he was sanctified, and had right principles and dispositions implanted in him; and he was righteous in his conversation, one that made conscience of rendering to all their due, to God his due and to men theirs. Note, None but a downright honest man can find favour with God. That conversation which will be pleasing to God must be governed by simplicity and godly sincerity, not by fleshly wisdom, Co2 1:12. God has sometimes chosen the foolish things of the world, but he never chose the knavish things of it. [2.] He was perfect, not with a sinless perfection, but a perfection of sincerity; and it is well for us that by virtue of the covenant of grace, upon the score of Christ's righteousness, sincerity is accepted as our gospel perfection. [3.] He walked with God, as Enoch had done before him. He was not only honest, but devout; he walked, that is, he acted with God, as one always under his eye. He lived a life of communion with God; it was his constant care to conform himself to the will of God, to please him, and to approve himself to him. Note, God looks down upon those with an eye of favour who sincerely look up to him with an eye of faith. But, [4.] That which crowns his character is that thus he was, and thus he did, in his generation, in that corrupt degenerate age in which his lot was cast. It is easy to be religious when religion is in fashion; but it is an evidence of strong faith and resolution to swim against a stream to heaven, and to appear for God when no one else appears for him: so Noah did, and it is upon record, to his immortal honour.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:8 Noah and his godly life stand in stark contrast to the sinfulness of the rest of the people.
Genesis 6:8
Noah’s Favor with God
7So the LORD said, “I will blot out man, whom I have created, from the face of the earth—every man and beast and crawling creature and bird of the air—for I am grieved that I have made them.”8Noah, however, found favor in the eyes of the LORD.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Complete Surrender
By A.W. Tozer6.8K43:16Absolute SurrenderGEN 6:8PSA 57:9PSA 108:5PSA 149:6LUK 9:231CO 15:34REV 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of surrendering oneself to God and sacrificing for His glory. The speaker talks about the need to prioritize spiritual matters over worldly desires and distractions. They mention the concept of being caught up with the masses and the importance of staying connected to God and fellow believers. The sermon also highlights the power of prayer and seeking God's mercy and protection in times of trouble. The preacher references various Bible verses, including Psalm 57, to support their message.
Jude #5 - Michael, Satan and the Body of Moses
By Chuck Missler6.1K1:19:32JudeGEN 6:8DAN 12:1ACT 20:352PE 2:5REV 11:3REV 11:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the topic of apostasy and highlights three basic marks of apostasy: defiling the flesh, despising dominion, and railing at dignities. The sermon also mentions the structure of the book of Jude and refers to a prophetic insight about the Son of man coming in his kingdom. The speaker then talks about an event where Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John, leaving them impressed. The sermon concludes with a reference to a different incident involving Moses and the instruction to speak to a rock to bring forth water for the congregation.
(Hebrews - Part 38): Heroes of Faith
By A.W. Tozer5.5K22:16ExpositionalGEN 5:24GEN 6:8GEN 8:22GEN 12:1EZR 7:102TI 4:2HEB 11:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of listening to God and understanding His high expectations for us. He encourages the audience to put away sin, separate themselves from the world, and offer themselves to God in faith. The preacher reminds the audience that God accepts the poor in spirit, regardless of their background. He prays for God's blessing and asks for the word to come alive in their hearts. The preacher also mentions the examples of Ezra and Paul, who emphasized the importance of reading and preaching the word of God. He concludes by highlighting the importance of faith, obedience, and love, and encourages the audience to be alive and active in their faith rather than being spiritually dead.
Love With Shoes On
By Darrell Champlin5.2K1:17:49MissionsGEN 3:15GEN 6:8GEN 12:1GEN 22:2REV 20:11REV 13:1REV 20:1In this sermon, the preacher recounts a missionary family's encounter with a strong wind that led them to a tragic event. However, the preacher emphasizes that this was not a tragedy but rather a test of their love for Jesus. The preacher then shares a personal experience of being in a fire and dancing on the hot coals, demonstrating the power of God's grace. He emphasizes the importance of believing in and receiving Jesus to avoid the consequences of hell. The sermon concludes with a reference to the power of Satan and the need for spiritual growth among believers.
(Hebrews - Part 26): Christ Offered Himself
By A.W. Tozer4.6K29:49ExpositionalGEN 3:6GEN 6:8EXO 34:6LUK 15:3ROM 3:23HEB 9:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding and believing in the concept of redemption. He explains that all three persons of the Trinity - the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - were involved in the act of redemption. The preacher also mentions the story of a woman who lost a piece of jewelry and diligently searched for it until she found it, highlighting the joy and relief that comes with finding what was lost. Additionally, the preacher references the parable of the prodigal son to illustrate the idea of God's forgiveness and grace towards sinners. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the fallen nature of mankind, the need for redemption, and the love and mercy of God.
Attributes of God (Series 2): God's Grace Abounding
By A.W. Tozer4.3K50:45Attributes of GodGEN 6:8EXO 33:17PRO 3:34ROM 3:24ROM 5:15EPH 1:6In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of infinitude, which means boundlessness. He tells the story of the prodigal son from the Bible, who squandered his inheritance and ended up in a far country, living in degradation and hunger. Eventually, the son realizes his mistake and decides to return to his father, admitting his unworthiness. The father, filled with joy, welcomes him back with a grand celebration, much to the dismay of the older son who feels neglected. The preacher emphasizes the message of forgiveness and redemption, highlighting the father's unconditional love for his lost son.
(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.
(The Missing Messages in Today's Christianity) the True Grace of God
By Zac Poonen2.1K57:16ChristianityGEN 6:8LUK 2:39ACT 2:1HEB 4:16JUD 1:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the burden that Jude had to explain justification and salvation to people who did not have access to the book of Romans. However, the Holy Spirit prompted Jude to write about something else, urging believers to fight earnestly for the faith that was handed down to them. The preacher emphasizes the incredible nature of justification, comparing it to a condemned criminal being made a prince. He encourages believers to exult in the hope of the glory of God and to appreciate the power of the blood of Jesus Christ. The sermon also touches on the importance of grace and truth, and how grace strengthens the heart to resist temptation. The preacher concludes by highlighting the first step in grace, which is to receive and rejoice in the fact that God has accepted believers through the forgiveness of their sins.
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.
(Through the Bible) Exodus 1-5
By Chuck Smith1.8K1:23:21ExpositionalGEN 50:26EXO 2:15EXO 4:1EXO 4:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God is not just a passive observer of our struggles and suffering. He takes action to deliver His people from their hardships. The preacher also highlights the importance of not getting too attached to material possessions, as they can easily be taken away. Instead, our focus should be on the things of the Spirit and God's eternal kingdom. The sermon references the story of Moses and the Israelites in Egypt, where they faced oppression and hardship, but ultimately God delivered them.
Sermon From the Last Summit
By Steve Hill1.3K06:38GEN 6:8This sermon reflects on the tragic event of the Great Flood as described in Genesis, emphasizing the consequences of not heeding God's warnings through Noah. It paints a vivid picture of the chaos and destruction that unfolded as the waters rose, and the desperation of those who realized their impending doom. The focus is on the urgency of repentance and seeking salvation before it's too late, drawing parallels to the present day and the importance of responding to God's call while grace is still available.
The Certainty of Our Faith
By Cornelius Van Til1.3K34:20FaithGEN 6:8JHN 1:3ACT 17:311CO 1:181CO 15:58HEB 11:38HEB 12:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the contrast between the wisdom of the world and the wisdom of God. He highlights how the world's wisdom is considered foolishness by God. The preacher also discusses the importance of proclaiming Jesus and his crucifixion, resurrection, and imminent return. He mentions the doubt and fear that modern man faces and how they are unable to truly know themselves or their world. The sermon concludes with a focus on the institution of the Lord's Supper and the belief in the existence of Satan and his deceit on the cross.
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.
The Grace of God in This Present Age
By Erlo Stegen9081:19:15Grace Of GodGEN 6:8MAT 24:37In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Noah and the flood as described in the Bible. He emphasizes that the flood was a judgment from God on the sinful world. The preacher highlights Noah's righteousness and obedience to God, contrasting it with the mockery and disbelief of the people around him. He also mentions that Jesus compared his return to the days of Noah, warning that judgment can come suddenly and urging people to be righteous and pleasing to God. The sermon concludes with a mention of God's promise to never destroy the world with water again, but with fire instead.
Having No Part Dark
By Zac Poonen74550:30GEN 6:8PSA 37:25ISA 49:14MAT 7:11LUK 11:33JHN 16:8PHP 2:19HEB 3:12This sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing God as our Father, a revelation brought by Jesus. It highlights how unsatisfied Christian lives may stem from not truly knowing God as a Father. The comparison is drawn between human relationships and God's relationship with us, particularly as a compassionate and loving Father. The need to have a deep understanding of God's goodness, faithfulness, and eagerness to bless us is emphasized, along with the significance of seeking God's kingdom above all else and avoiding self-seeking motives.
God Is With You
By Lewis Gregory74239:12IsolatedGEN 6:8EXO 20:1JDG 6:17MAT 6:33JHN 1:14ROM 3:23EPH 2:8In this sermon on Judges chapter 6 verse 17, the preacher discusses the historical context of the book of Judges, where the people of Israel were in need of a leader to rescue them from occupation by other nations. The focus is on Gideon, who finds himself in a difficult place and questions whether he has found grace in God's sight. The preacher emphasizes that Gideon's doubts and questions are relatable to those who feel obscure, isolated, and abandoned. The sermon highlights Gideon's dialogue with the angel of the Lord, where he questions why all the difficulties have befallen them and expresses a sense of God forsaking them.
Sin and Death (Romans 5:14)
By Ernest O'Neill60934:04GEN 4:26GEN 6:8GEN 12:1ROM 2:14ROM 5:14In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of death and how it is passed on from generation to generation. He explains that there are three types of death: physical death, eternal separation from God, and the second death of being cast into the lake of fire. The preacher emphasizes that the death we experience today can be inherited from our parents, but this is not unfair of God. He uses the example of Adam and Cain to illustrate how a father's sinful example can lead to death being passed on to the next generation. The preacher encourages the audience to reject Satan's temptations and listen to the Spirit of God within them to move towards life.
Of the Exhibitions of the Covenant of Grace in the Patriarchal State.
By John Gill0Covenant of GraceFaith in GodGEN 3:15GEN 6:8GEN 12:1GEN 15:6GEN 17:4GEN 22:14GEN 28:13JOB 19:25ROM 4:3HEB 11:4John Gill expounds on the exhibitions of the covenant of grace during the patriarchal state, illustrating how it was revealed from Adam to Abraham. He emphasizes the significance of key figures such as Adam, Abel, Noah, and Abraham, each representing aspects of God's grace and the promise of salvation through faith. Gill highlights the prophetic nature of these figures, showing how they foreshadow Christ and the ultimate fulfillment of the covenant. The sermon underscores the continuity of God's grace throughout history, culminating in the gospel. Through these patriarchs, the foundations of faith and the promise of redemption are established for all believers.
The Saint Must Walk Alone
By A.W. Tozer0Walking With GodLoneliness in FaithGEN 5:24GEN 6:8EXO 3:4PSA 27:10MAT 26:39JHN 16:322CO 5:20PHP 3:20HEB 11:81PE 2:11A.W. Tozer emphasizes the inherent loneliness that often accompanies a saintly life, illustrating this through the examples of biblical figures like Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and Moses, who each walked a path distinct from their contemporaries. He notes that true spiritual depth often leads to isolation, as the saint's journey with God can create a chasm between them and society. Tozer argues that this loneliness is not a sign of failure but a necessary aspect of a deeper relationship with God, where one learns to rely solely on Him. He warns against the false comfort of superficial companionship and encourages believers to embrace their solitude as a means to draw closer to God. Ultimately, the lonely saint is not withdrawn but is more capable of empathizing with the brokenhearted, using their solitude to serve others.
Attributes of God #6 "The Grace of God"
By A.W. Tozer0SalvationGrace Of GodGEN 6:8EXO 33:17PRO 3:34JHN 1:17ROM 3:24ROM 5:15EPH 1:6A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound nature of God's grace as an essential attribute, distinct from mercy, and rooted in God's goodness. He explains that grace is not merely a concept but the very essence of God's character, which remains constant and unchanging throughout history. Tozer highlights that all salvation, from the time of Adam to the present, is solely by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, who is the channel of this grace. He urges believers to understand that God's grace is infinite and always available, regardless of human demerit, and that it is through Christ's sacrifice that grace flows to humanity. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize and embrace the overwhelming kindness of God, encouraging a return to Him for all who have strayed.
The Influence of One Man - Noah & Joshua
By Zac Poonen0LeadershipFaithfulnessGEN 6:8EXO 33:11DEU 31:7JOS 3:7JOS 10:14JDG 2:7MAT 24:371CO 15:58HEB 11:71PE 3:20Zac Poonen emphasizes the profound influence of individual faithfulness through the examples of Noah and Joshua. Noah, amidst a wicked world, remained faithful to God, ensuring the survival of humanity and serving as a model for uncompromising faith in today's society. Similarly, Joshua, after years of preparation, was exalted by God to lead Israel, demonstrating the miraculous support God provides to those He chooses. The impact of Joshua's leadership was so significant that the Israelites remained faithful during his lifetime, highlighting the power of one man's devotion to God. Poonen calls for modern believers to emulate the steadfastness of these biblical figures in a world increasingly filled with rebellion against God.
The Fall of Noah
By J.B. Buffington0GEN 6:8GEN 7:1LUK 15:21CO 10:12GAL 6:1HEB 11:71JN 1:9J.B. Buffington preaches on 'The Fall of Noah,' highlighting Noah's righteousness, faith, and relationship with God amidst a wicked generation. The sermon delves into Noah's involvement in building the ark, his longevity, and the one-time sin of drunkenness after the flood. It emphasizes the importance of humility, accountability, and the consequences of relaxation leading to sin. The sermon also explores the contrasting responses of Ham, Shem, and Japheth to their father's sin, emphasizing the need for love, respect, and discretion in dealing with fallen leaders, as instructed in the Bible.
Homily 9
By Clement of Rome0GEN 6:8EXO 20:3MAT 4:10MRK 16:17LUK 10:17ACT 19:131CO 10:20EPH 6:12JAS 4:71JN 4:4Clement of Rome delivers a sermon emphasizing the importance of worshiping one God and refraining from idolatry, highlighting the consequences of forsaking the true God for false gods. He discusses the history of various kingdoms and the rise of false worship, pointing out the deceitful practices of demons who masquerade as gods. Clement stresses the power of faith in expelling demons and the necessity of seeking God's help through prayers and petitions to overcome evil influences. He concludes by demonstrating the authority believers have over demons through their faith and the importance of living a life devoted to God to receive eternal blessings.
(The Full Gospel) 17. the Influence of One Man
By Zac Poonen0LeadershipFaithfulnessGEN 6:8EXO 12:40JOS 3:7EZK 22:30DAN 1:8ACT 20:292CO 7:12TI 2:20JAS 5:16REV 2:1Zac Poonen emphasizes the critical role of one faithful man in fulfilling God's purposes, as illustrated through biblical figures like Noah, Moses, and Paul. He explains that while God can use anyone for minor tasks, He seeks those who have been tested and proven for significant assignments. Poonen warns against being merely used by God, urging believers to strive to be valuable vessels for His work. He highlights that God's work often hinges on the faithfulness of one individual, and that true leadership requires a deep commitment to God's will. The sermon calls for believers to cleanse themselves and be ready for God's calling in a world that desperately needs uncompromising leaders.
The Beauty of Grace
By Thomas Watson0GEN 6:8PSA 119:104PRO 4:7PRO 8:18ZEC 12:101CO 1:51TH 5:23HEB 10:38JAS 1:111PE 1:21PE 1:72PE 1:3Thomas Watson preaches about the beauty of grace, emphasizing the connection between grace and peace, the meaning, author, necessity, and various aspects of grace. He delves into the necessity of grace for communion with God and provides an exhortation, examination, and direction for attaining grace, highlighting the soul-quickening, enriching, adorning, and cleansing excellencies of grace, among others. Watson encourages believers to seek true grace, test its authenticity, and rely on God's power and promises for its perpetuation and abiding presence in their lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord - Why? Because he was, 1. A just man, איש צדיק ish tsaddik, a man who gave to all their due; for this is the ideal meaning of the original word. 2. He was perfect in his generation - he was in all things a consistent character, never departing from the truth in principle or practice. 3. He walked with God - he was not only righteous in his conduct, but he was pious, and had continual communion with God. The same word is used here as before in the case of Enoch. See Gen 5:22.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord--favor. What an awful state of things when only one man or one family of piety and virtue was now existing among the professed sons of God!
John Gill Bible Commentary
But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. This man and his family were the only exception to the general apostasy; God always reserves some, in the worst of times, for himself; there is a remnant, according to the election of grace; it was but a small one, and that now appeared; and this was owing to the grace of God, and his choice upon that, and not to the merits of the creature. This grace, which Noah found and shared in, was the favour and good will of God; Noah was grateful and acceptable to him; he was well pleased with him in Christ; his person, services, and sacrifices, were acceptable to him through the Beloved; though he might not be acceptable in the eyes of men, who derided him for his piety and devotion, and especially for his prediction of the flood, and making an ark to save him and his family from it; yet he was very acceptable in the eyes of the Lord, and grateful in his sight, and was favoured with grace from him, who is the God of all grace, and with all the supplies of it: the Jerusalem Targum is, he"found grace and mercy;''the grace he found was not on account of his own merit, but on account of the mercy of God: and this shows that he was not without sin, or he would have stood in no need of the mercy and grace of God to save him; and as he found grace and favour in things spiritual, so in things temporal; he found favour with God, and therefore he and his family were spared, when the whole world of the ungodly were destroyed; he found favour with God, and therefore was directed by him to build an ark, for the saving of himself and his; he found favour with him, and therefore he had the honour of being the preserver of mankind, and the father of a new world. But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. This man and his family were the only exception to the general apostasy; God always reserves some, in the worst of times, for himself; there is a remnant, according to the election of grace; it was but a small one, and that now appeared; and this was owing to the grace of God, and his choice upon that, and not to the merits of the creature. This grace, which Noah found and shared in, was the favour and good will of God; Noah was grateful and acceptable to him; he was well pleased with him in Christ; his person, services, and sacrifices, were acceptable to him through the Beloved; though he might not be acceptable in the eyes of men, who derided him for his piety and devotion, and especially for his prediction of the flood, and making an ark to save him and his family from it; yet he was very acceptable in the eyes of the Lord, and grateful in his sight, and was favoured with grace from him, who is the God of all grace, and with all the supplies of it: the Jerusalem Targum is, he"found grace and mercy;''the grace he found was not on account of his own merit, but on account of the mercy of God: and this shows that he was not without sin, or he would have stood in no need of the mercy and grace of God to save him; and as he found grace and favour in things spiritual, so in things temporal; he found favour with God, and therefore he and his family were spared, when the whole world of the ungodly were destroyed; he found favour with God, and therefore was directed by him to build an ark, for the saving of himself and his; he found favour with him, and therefore he had the honour of being the preserver of mankind, and the father of a new world. Genesis 6:9 gen 6:9 gen 6:9 gen 6:9These are the generations of Noah,.... Or this is the account of his posterity, of the persons that were generated by him, that sprung from him, and peopled the earth after the flood, who are mentioned in the next verse, what follows being to be put in a parenthesis; as the genealogy of Adam is carried on from Adam to Noah, Gen 5:1 so the old world ending at the flood, the genealogy of the new world begins with Noah: though Aben Ezra and Ben Gersome interpret the word "events", things which days bring forth, Pro 27:1 these are the events or the things which befell Noah, of which an account is given in this and some following chapters, whose character is next observed: Noah was a just man; not only before men, but in the sight of God; and not by his own works of righteousness, for no man is just by them before God, but by the righteousness of the promised seed, the Messiah; for he "became heir of the righteousness which is by faith", Heb 11:7 the righteousness which was to be brought in by the Son of God, and which was revealed to him from faith to faith; and which by faith he received and lived upon, as every just man does, and believed in as his justifying righteousness before God; though he also lived a holy and righteous conversation before men, which may rather be intended in the next part of his character: and perfect in his generations; not that he was perfectly holy, or free from sin, but was a partaker of the true grace of God; was sincere and upright in heart and life; lived an unblemished life and conversation, untainted with the gross corruptions of that age he lived in, which he escaped through the knowledge, grace, and fear of God; and therefore it is added, that he was holy, upright, and blameless "in his generations": among the men of the several generations he lived in, as in the generation before the flood, which was very corrupt indeed, and which corruption was the cause of that; and in the generation after the flood: or "in his ages" (w), in the several stages of his life, in youth and in old age; he was throughout the whole course of his life a holy good man. And Noah walked with God: walked according to his will, in the ways of truth and righteousness; walked in a manner well pleasing to him, and enjoyed much communion with him, as Enoch had done before him, Gen 5:22. (w) "in aetatibus suis", Drusius, Junius & Tremellius, Piscator, Cocceius.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have here Noah distinguished from the rest of the world, and a peculiar mark of honour put upon him. 1. When God was displeased with the rest of the world, he favoured Noah: But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord, Gen 6:8. This vindicates God's justice in his displeasure against the world, and shows that he had strictly examined the character of every person in it before he pronounced it universally corrupt; for, there being one good man, he found him out, and smiled upon him. It also magnifies his grace towards Noah that he was made a vessel of God's mercy when all mankind besides had become the generation of his wrath: distinguishing favours bring under peculiarly strong obligations. Probably Noah did not find favour in the eyes of men; they hated and persecuted him, because both by his life and preaching he condemned the world. But he found grace in the eyes of the Lord, and this was honour and comfort enough. God made more account of Noah than of all the world besides, and this made him greater and more truly honourable than all the giants that were in those days, who became mighty men and men of renown. Let this be the summit of our ambition, to find grace in the eyes of the Lord; herein let us labour, that, present or absent, we may be accepted of him, Co2 5:9. Those are highly favoured whom God favours. 2. When the rest of the world was corrupt and wicked, Noah kept his integrity: These are the generations of Noah (this is the account we have to give of him), Noah was a just man, Gen 6:9. This character of Noah comes in here either, (1.) As the reason of God's favour to him; his singular piety qualified him for singular tokens of God's loving-kindness. Those that would find grace in the eyes of the Lord must be as Noah was and do as Noah did; God loves those that love him: or, (2.) As the effect of God's favour to him. It was God's good-will to him that produced this good work in him. He was a very good man, but he was no better than the grace of God made him, Co1 15:10. Now observe his character. [1.] He was a just man, that is, justified before God by faith in the promised seed; for he was an heir of the righteousness which is by faith, Heb 11:7. he was sanctified, and had right principles and dispositions implanted in him; and he was righteous in his conversation, one that made conscience of rendering to all their due, to God his due and to men theirs. Note, None but a downright honest man can find favour with God. That conversation which will be pleasing to God must be governed by simplicity and godly sincerity, not by fleshly wisdom, Co2 1:12. God has sometimes chosen the foolish things of the world, but he never chose the knavish things of it. [2.] He was perfect, not with a sinless perfection, but a perfection of sincerity; and it is well for us that by virtue of the covenant of grace, upon the score of Christ's righteousness, sincerity is accepted as our gospel perfection. [3.] He walked with God, as Enoch had done before him. He was not only honest, but devout; he walked, that is, he acted with God, as one always under his eye. He lived a life of communion with God; it was his constant care to conform himself to the will of God, to please him, and to approve himself to him. Note, God looks down upon those with an eye of favour who sincerely look up to him with an eye of faith. But, [4.] That which crowns his character is that thus he was, and thus he did, in his generation, in that corrupt degenerate age in which his lot was cast. It is easy to be religious when religion is in fashion; but it is an evidence of strong faith and resolution to swim against a stream to heaven, and to appear for God when no one else appears for him: so Noah did, and it is upon record, to his immortal honour.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:8 Noah and his godly life stand in stark contrast to the sinfulness of the rest of the people.