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Traditional Lens Commentary: Genesis 5:1-32

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Traditional Lens Reading of Genesis 5:1-32

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Genesis 5:1-32 as a genealogical account that underscores God's faithfulness in preserving a godly line from Adam to Noah. This passage provides a historical framework that emphasizes the reality of human mortality due to sin, yet also highlights the promise of life through those who 'walked with God,' such as Enoch. We see this genealogy as a testimony to the unfolding redemptive history, leading ultimately to the coming of Christ, the second Adam, who fulfills God's promise of redemption.

Key Language Decisions

In the Hebrew text, the repetition of 'and he died' (וַיָּמֹת) after each generation underscores the consequence of sin introduced in Genesis 3. The phrase 'walked with God' (הִתְהַלֵּךְ אֶת-הָאֱלֹהִים) concerning Enoch is significant, suggesting an intimate relationship with God that prefigures the call to live by faith. The translation choices emphasize the certainty of death due to sin, contrasted with the hope of eternal life through communion with God.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our tradition emphasizes the literal historicity of this genealogy, differing from liberal theological traditions that might view it as mythological or merely symbolic. We affirm that these genealogies are part of the inspired Word of God, establishing both the reality of human sin and the groundwork for the coming Messiah. This matters theologically as it upholds the authority and inerrancy of Scripture, which is central to our faith.

Pastoral Application

Preaching from Genesis 5, a Traditional Lens pastor would emphasize God's unbroken promise amid human mortality, pointing to the hope found in walking with God, as exemplified by Enoch. This passage encourages believers to live lives of faithfulness, anticipating the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise in Christ. The congregation should hear a call to trust in God's sovereign plan and find assurance in the continuity of God's redemptive work through history, culminating in Jesus' atoning work on the cross.

Cross-References: Genesis 3:15; Hebrews 11:5-6; Jude 1:14-15; 1 Corinthians 15:22; Romans 5:12-21

Doctrinal Connections: original sin; substitutionary atonement; justification by faith; the imago Dei; the promise of redemption

Topics & Themes

original sinsubstitutionary atonementjustification by faiththe imago Deithe promise of redemption

Scripture References

Genesis 5:1-32

Best Used In

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Audience

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