Lutheran Lens Commentary: Genesis 6-8

Lutheran Lens Reading of Genesis 6-8

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Genesis 6-8 as a profound illustration of the Law and Gospel distinction. The Law is evident in God's judgment on a corrupt humanity, revealing our total depravity and inability to save ourselves. Yet, the Gospel shines through in God's gracious promise to Noah and his family, preserved through the ark, pointing ahead to our preservation in Christ. The flood narrative becomes a typology of baptism, where we see death to the old Adam and the promise of new life. In this way, the ark prefigures the Church, where we are saved through the waters of Baptism and the means of grace.

Key Language Decisions

The Hebrew term 'tebah' (translated as 'ark') signifies a vessel of salvation, resonating with the idea of Baptism as a means of grace. The word 'covenant' (Hebrew 'berith') in Genesis 6:18 emphasizes God's unilateral promise, reflecting the Gospel as an unconditional gift. The emphasis on 'all flesh' being corrupted (Hebrew 'kol basar') underscores the total depravity of humanity, aligning with our anthropology of original sin.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike Reformed traditions, which may focus on covenant theology in a bilateral sense, we emphasize God's covenant as a unilateral act of grace. While some Baptist traditions view the flood as a mere historical event, we see it as a typology of baptism, a means of grace. Our reading also differs from a purely moralistic interpretation found in some evangelical circles, as we reject the theology of glory in favor of the theology of the cross.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we emphasize God's righteous judgment as the Law exposing human sinfulness, leading the congregation to recognize their need for salvation. Then, we proclaim the Gospel, highlighting God's gracious promise of redemption through Christ foreshadowed in the ark. A Lutheran Lens pastor will reassure the congregation of their baptismal identity, drawing parallels between the flood and the waters of Baptism, where they are saved from sin and death. We affirm the real presence of Christ's grace in the sacraments as the ark of salvation in a world still under judgment. This passage encourages the faithful to trust in God's promise, living as simul justus et peccator, fully reliant on Christ's completed work.

Cross-References: 1 Peter 3:20-21; Romans 6:3-4; Titus 3:5; Ephesians 2:8-9; Hebrews 11:7

Doctrinal Connections: Law and Gospel; Baptismal identity; Total depravity; Means of grace; Simul justus et peccator