Genesis - Part 20

The Second Chance gets started but . . . 

Genesis 9:18-29  part 2

Meeting Purpose

To discuss Genesis 9, focusing on Noah's second chance and the resurgence of corruption after the flood.

Key Takeaways

-             The depravity of humanity persists even after the flood, highlighting man's inherent sinful nature

-             The incident with Noah's nakedness parallels the Garden of Eden story, emphasizing recurring themes of sin and shame

-             Cultural context is crucial for understanding the severity of Ham/Canaan's actions regarding Noah's nakedness

-             The prevalence of nudity and immorality in modern culture poses a significant challenge for Christians

Topics

Noah's Second Chance and Lingering Corruption

-             Despite the flood, mankind's sinful nature remained (Genesis 8:21)

-             Parallel drawn between Noah's vineyard incident and Garden of Eden:

o  Planting of cultivated area

o  Partaking of fruit (wine)

o  Resulting nakedness

o  Covering of nakedness

o  Pronouncement of curse

The Incident with Noah's Nakedness

-             Noah became drunk and lay uncovered in his tent

-             Ham saw Noah's nakedness and told his brothers

-             Shem and Japheth covered Noah without looking

-             Debate over whether Ham or Canaan was the primary offender

-             Cultural significance of nakedness in ancient times:

o  Associated with shame and vulnerability

o  "Uncovering nakedness" often euphemism for relations

Curse on Canaan and Its Implications

-             Noah cursed Canaan (Ham's son) rather than Ham directly

-             Canaan's descendants became associated with immoral practices

-             God later commanded Israelites to destroy Canaanite peoples (Deuteronomy 20:16-18)

Modern Application: Prevalence of Nudity and Immorality

-             Discussion on the pervasiveness of nudity and content in current culture

-             Estimated 99% of young men exposed to by age 18

-             Need for Christians to resist cultural acceptance of immorality

-             Resources for overcoming temptation:

o  Scripture (e.g., Proverbs 5:8-10, 2 Timothy 2:22)

o  Holy Spirit's guidance

o  Accountability partnerships

o  Ministries focused on addiction recovery

Next Steps

1.       Reflect on personal susceptibility to cultural influences regarding nudity and immorality

2.       Seek godly wisdom and understanding to resist temptation

3.       Consider finding an accountability partner or joining a support group/ministry

Remember that most struggle with these issues