Bible Study: Genesis 5

23 min readJan 11, 2024

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Short summary

Genesis 5 is a chapter that lists the descendants of Adam from his son Seth to his great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-grandson Noah. It tells us how long each person lived, how old they were when they had their first son, and how many other sons and daughters they had. It also mentions that one of them, Enoch, did not die but was taken away by God because he walked faithfully with Him. The chapter ends with Noah having three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth.

This chapter points us to Jesus in several ways:

It shows us that God created human beings in His own image and likeness, and that He blessed them and gave them a name (Genesis 5:1–2). This reminds us that Jesus is the perfect image of God (Colossians 1:15) and that He has a name above every name (Philippians 2:9–11).
It shows us that human beings are mortal and sinful, and that they need God’s grace and salvation. The repeated phrase “and he died” (Genesis 5:5, 8, 11, etc.) emphasizes the reality of death as a consequence of the fall (Genesis 3:19). This makes us appreciate the gift of eternal life that Jesus offers to those who believe in Him (John 3:16).
It shows us that God preserved a faithful remnant through the generations, and that He had a plan to save the world through Noah and his family (Genesis 5:29; 6:8–9). This foreshadows the promise of God to send a Savior through the line of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Genesis 12:1–3; 49:10), who is ultimately Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the Son of Man (Matthew 1:1; Luke 3:23–38).

Background and Context

Meaning to the people it was written to: This passage was probably written by Moses, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, to the Israelites who were about to enter the promised land of Canaan. It was meant to teach them about their origins, their identity, and their destiny as God’s chosen people. It was also meant to encourage them to trust in God’s faithfulness, power, and purpose for their lives.

Historical significance: This passage reflects the ancient Near Eastern culture and worldview of the time, which valued genealogies, names, and numbers as sources of information and identity. It also shows some similarities and differences with other ancient accounts of creation and flood, such as the Babylonian Enuma Elish and the Sumerian King List. For example, both Genesis and the Sumerian King List record long lifespans before the flood, but Genesis attributes them to God’s blessing and grace, while the Sumerian King List attributes them to divine kingship and heroism.

Characters in the passage: The main characters in the passage are Adam, Seth, Enosh, Kenan, Mahalalel, Jared, Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech, and Noah, and their sons and daughters. They are the ancestors of the Israelites and the rest of humanity.

Locations from the passage: No specific locations are mentioned in the passage, except for the general reference to “the ground” (Genesis 5:29) that God had cursed because of Adam’s sin (Genesis 3:17–19). This implies that the passage covers a wide geographical area and a long period of time, and that the human condition was marked by hardship and sorrow.

Context of the passage: The passage is part of the first section of Genesis, which covers the primeval history of the world from creation to the tower of Babel (Genesis 1–11). The passage follows after the account of the fall of Adam and Eve, the murder of Abel by Cain, and the genealogy of Cain’s descendants (Genesis 3–4). The passage precedes the account of the wickedness of the world, the judgment of the flood, and the covenant with Noah and his sons (Genesis 6–9).

Genre of the passage: The passage is a genealogy, which is a type of historical narrative that records the names and relationships of a family or a people. It is also a theological narrative, which reveals the character and actions of God in relation to His creation and His people.

Structure of the passage: The passage has a symmetrical structure, with an introduction (Genesis 5:1–2) and a conclusion (Genesis 5:32) that frame the main body of the genealogy (Genesis 5:3–31). The main body consists of ten sections, each following a similar pattern: the name of the father, his age when he had his first son, the name of the son, the remaining years of the father, his other sons and daughters, his total years, and his death. The only exception is Enoch, who did not die but was taken by God (Genesis 5:21–24).

Grammar of the passage: The passage uses simple and repetitive sentences, with the subject-verb-object (SVO) word order. It also uses the waw-consecutive form of the verb, which indicates a sequence of events or actions. It also uses the construct form of the noun, which indicates a relationship of possession or belonging between two nouns. For example, “the book of the generations” (Genesis 5:1) literally means “the book of the genealogy of Adam” (Genesis 5:1).

The grammar of the passage can tell us several things:

The use of the word “book” (sepher) in Genesis 5:1 implies that the passage is based on a written source or record, possibly kept by the patriarchs themselves or by their descendants.
The use of the word “generations” (toledoth) in Genesis 5:1 indicates that the passage is a part of a larger literary unit that traces the origins and history of the world and humanity. The same word is used in Genesis 2:4; 6:9; 10:1; 11:10, 27; 25:12, 19; 36:1, 9; and 37:2.
The use of the word “created” (bara) in Genesis 5:1–2 echoes the word used in Genesis 1:1, 21, 27; 2:3, 4, linking the passage to the account of creation and emphasizing God’s sovereign and unique role as the Creator of all things.
The use of the word “likeness” (demuth) in Genesis 5:1, 3 stresses the similarity and continuity between God and humanity, and between Adam and his son Seth. It also implies a difference and distinction, since likeness is not the same as identity.
The use of the word “Mankind” (adam) in Genesis 5:2 is both a proper name and a generic term for humanity. It shows that God gave a collective and inclusive name to the human race, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or status.
The use of the word “blessed” (barak) in Genesis 5:2 recalls the word used in Genesis 1:22, 28; 2:3, indicating that God bestowed His favor and goodness on humanity, and gave them the ability and responsibility to be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth.
The use of the word “walked” (halak) in Genesis 5:22, 24 describes the close and intimate relationship that Enoch had with God. It also suggests a lifestyle of obedience and faithfulness to God’s will and ways.
The use of the word “took” (laqach) in Genesis 5:24 expresses the sudden and mysterious disappearance of Enoch from the earth. It also implies God’s initiative and power to remove him from the realm of death and bring him into His presence.
The use of the word “comfort” (naham) in Genesis 5:29 conveys the hope and expectation that Lamech had for his son Noah. It also reflects the pain and sorrow that humanity experienced as a result of the curse on the ground (Genesis 3:17–19).

Logical progression: The passage follows a chronological order, tracing the genealogy of Adam through Seth to Noah. It also shows a theological progression, revealing God’s plan of redemption through the line of Seth, who called upon the name of the Lord. The passage also has a numerical progression, based on the number ten, which is a symbol of completeness and perfection in the Bible. There are ten generations from Adam to Noah, and each section of the genealogy has ten elements: the name of the father, his age at the birth of his son, the name of the son, the phrase “and he had other sons and daughters”, the remaining years of the father, the total years of the father, the phrase “and he died”, the word “altogether”, the conjunction “and”, and the name of the father repeated. The only exception is Enoch, who breaks the pattern by not dying, but being taken by God. This shows that Enoch was a special case, and that he was a type of the future resurrection and rapture of the saints.

Unexpected or unusual:

The long lifespans of the patriarchs, ranging from 365 years (Enoch) to 969 years (Methuselah). These numbers are much higher than the average human lifespan today, and they raise questions about their accuracy and significance. Some possible explanations are:
They are literal and historical, reflecting the original blessing and vitality of humanity before the flood, and the gradual decline of the human condition after the flood (Genesis 6:3; 11:10–26).
They are symbolic and theological, representing the importance and influence of the patriarchs in God’s plan, and the contrast between the mortality of humanity and the eternity of God (Psalm 90:4; 2 Peter 3:8).
They are based on a different system of counting or measuring time, such as lunar months, seasons, or generations, rather than solar years. This would require some conversion or adjustment to match our modern calendar.
The disappearance of Enoch, who did not die but was taken by God. This is a unique and mysterious event that is not explained in detail in the passage. It implies that Enoch had a special relationship with God, and that God rewarded him with a supernatural translation to His presence. It also anticipates the future resurrection and rapture of the saints, who will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air (1 Thessalonians 4:13–18; Hebrews 11:5; Jude 14–15).
The name of Noah, which means “rest” or “comfort”. This is a hopeful and prophetic name that expresses the expectation that Noah would bring relief and deliverance from the curse on the ground and the toil of labor (Genesis 5:29). It also foreshadows the role of Noah as the father of a new humanity, and the type of Jesus as the true rest and comfort for our souls (Matthew 11:28–30; Hebrews 4:1–11).

Author’s purpose in writing the passage:

Trace the lineage of Adam through Seth to Noah, and to show the continuity and diversity of humanity as God’s creation and image-bearers.
Highlight the reality and consequence of sin and death, and the need for God’s grace and salvation.
Emphasize the faithfulness and sovereignty of God, who preserved a righteous remnant and prepared a way of escape from the coming judgment.
Point to the promise and fulfillment of God’s plan of redemption through Jesus Christ, the second Adam and the greater Noah.

Concepts and topics

The book of the generations: This is the first occurrence of the Hebrew word “toledoth”, which means “generations, descendants, or history”. It is used as a heading to introduce a genealogical list or a historical account. It is used eleven times in Genesis, and each time it marks a new section of the book. It shows the continuity and diversity of God’s creation and His plan of redemption through the line of Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph.

Some references for the book of the generations are: Genesis 2:4; 6:9; 10:1; 11:10, 27; 25:12, 19; 36:1, 9; 37:2.

The likeness of God: This is the second occurrence of the Hebrew word “demuth”, which means “likeness, resemblance, or similitude”. It is used to describe the relationship between God and humanity, and between Adam and Seth. It implies both similarity and difference, since likeness is not the same as identity. It shows the dignity and responsibility of human beings as God’s image-bearers and representatives on earth.

Some references for the likeness of God are: Genesis 1:26–27; 5:3; 9:6; Psalm 8:5; James 3:9.

The translation of Enoch: This is the first occurrence of the Hebrew word “laqach”, which means “to take, to receive, or to fetch”. It is used to describe the mysterious disappearance of Enoch, who did not die but was taken by God. It implies God’s initiative and power to remove him from the realm of death and bring him into His presence. It shows the reward and privilege of walking with God in faith and obedience.

Some references for the translation of Enoch are: Genesis 5:24; 2 Kings 2:3, 5, 9–10; Hebrews 11:5; Jude 14–15.

The genealogy of Adam: This is the first genealogy in the Bible, and it traces the descendants of Adam from his son Seth to his great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-grandson Noah. It shows the continuity and diversity of humanity as God’s creation and image-bearers. It also shows the reality and consequence of sin and death, and the need for God’s grace and salvation.

Some references for the genealogy of Adam are: 1 Chronicles 1:1–4; Luke 3:36–38; Romans 5:12–21; 1 Corinthians 15:21–22, 45–49.

The long lifespans of the patriarchs: This is the first record of the ages of the human beings in the Bible, and it shows that they lived much longer than the average human lifespan today. It raises questions about their accuracy and significance. Some possible explanations are that they are literal and historical, reflecting the original blessing and vitality of humanity before the flood; or that they are symbolic and theological, representing the importance and influence of the patriarchs in God’s plan; or that they are based on a different system of counting or measuring time, such as lunar months, seasons, or generations.

Some references for the long lifespans of the patriarchs are: Genesis 6:3; 11:10–26; Psalm 90:4; 2 Peter 3:8.

The name of Noah: This is the first occurrence of the Hebrew word “noach”, which means “rest” or “comfort”. It is a hopeful and prophetic name that expresses the expectation that Noah would bring relief and deliverance from the curse on the ground and the toil of labor. It also foreshadows the role of Noah as the father of a new humanity, and the type of Jesus as the true rest and comfort for our souls.

Some references for the name of Noah are: Genesis 5:29; 6:8–9; 8:21; 9:1, 8–17; Matthew 11:28–30; Hebrews 4:1–11.

Key terms

Adam: אָדָם (adam), H120. It is both a proper name and a generic term for humanity. It means “man, mankind, human being”. It is derived from the word אֲדָמָה (adamah), which means “ground, earth, soil”. It shows that God formed man from the dust of the ground, and gave him a collective and inclusive name for the human race, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or status.

Adam is mentioned 552 times in the Bible, 522 times in the Old Testament, and 30 times in the New Testament. It is used in 502 separate verses. The related word in the New Testament is Ἀδάμ (Adam), G76, which is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name.
Some references for Adam are: Genesis 1:26–27; 2:7, 19–20; 3:17, 20–21; 4:1, 25; 5:1–5; Romans 5:12–14; 1 Corinthians 15:21–22, 45–49; 1 Timothy 2:13–14.

Seth: שֵׁת (sheth), H8352. It is a proper name that means “appointed, compensation, substitute”. It is derived from the word שִׁית (shiyth), which means “to put, to place, to set”. It shows that God gave Adam and Eve another son to replace Abel, who was killed by Cain, and to continue the godly line of Adam.

Seth is mentioned 8 times in the Bible, 7 times in the Old Testament, and 1 time in the New Testament. It is used in 7 separate verses. The related word in the New Testament is Σὴθ (Seth), G4589, which is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name.
Some references for Seth are: Genesis 4:25–26; 5:3–8; 1 Chronicles 1:1; Luke 3:38.

Enoch: חֲנוֹךְ (chanok), H2585. It is a proper name that means “dedicated, initiated, trained”. It is derived from the word חָנַךְ (chanak), which means “to train, to dedicate, to discipline”. It shows that Enoch was a man who walked with God and was taken by God without dying. He was the father of Methuselah, the longest-lived man in the Bible, and the seventh from Adam in the godly line of Seth.

Enoch is mentioned 9 times in the Bible, 6 times in the Old Testament, and 3 times in the New Testament. It is used in 8 separate verses. The related word in the New Testament is Ἑνώχ (Henoch), G1802, which is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name.
Some references for Enoch are: Genesis 4:17–18; 5:18–24; 1 Chronicles 1:3; Luke 3:37; Hebrews 11:5; Jude 14–15.

Noah: נֹחַ (noach), H5146. It is a proper name that means “rest” or “comfort”. It is derived from the word נוּחַ (nuach), which means “to rest, to settle, to quiet”. It shows that Noah was a man who found grace in the eyes of the Lord, and was chosen to build the ark and save his family and the animals from the flood. He was also the father of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, the ancestors of all the nations of the earth.

Noah is mentioned 50 times in the Bible, 46 times in the Old Testament, and 4 times in the New Testament. It is used in 43 separate verses. The related word in the New Testament is Νῶε (Noe), G3575, which is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name.
Some references for Noah are: Genesis 5:28–32; 6:8–22; 7:1–24; 8:1–22; 9:1–29; Matthew 24:37–39; Luke 3:36; 17:26–27; Hebrews 11:7; 1 Peter 3:20; 2 Peter 2:5.

Translation

Figures of speech, plays on words, and idioms in this passage include:

The name Adam means “man” or “human” in Hebrew, and it is related to the word for “ground” or “earth” (adamah). This reflects the origin of Adam from the dust of the ground (Genesis 2:7)
The name Seth means “appointed” or “granted” in Hebrew, and it is based on Eve’s words in Genesis 4:25: “God has appointed for me another offspring.”
The name Noah means “rest” or “comfort” in Hebrew, and it is based on Lamech’s words in Genesis 5:29: “This one will comfort us in the labor and painful toil of our hands.” However, Noah also sounds like the Hebrew word for “curse” (nah), which may be a deliberate contrast between the curse on the ground and the blessing of Noah

Literary devices used in the passage:

Chiasm: This is a symmetrical structure that arranges words or ideas in an inverted parallel order. For example, Genesis 5:1–2 forms a chiasm:

A This is the book of the genealogy of Adam.
B In the day that God created man,
C He made him in the likeness of God.
C’ He created them male and female
B’ and blessed them
A’ and called them Mankind in the day they were created.

Numerical patterns: This chapter uses numbers in a significant way, such as the repetition of seven and ten. For example, there are ten generations from Adam to Noah, and seven times the phrase “and he died” is used. Some scholars have suggested that these numbers reflect a symbolic or theological meaning, such as completeness or perfection
Genealogy: This is a list of names that shows the ancestry and descendants of a person or a group. Genealogies were important in ancient cultures to establish identity, inheritance, and legitimacy. This chapter traces the line of Adam through Seth to Noah, and it emphasizes the continuity of God’s plan and promise through this line

Differences in various translations: Other Bible translations use different words or phrases in this chapter, depending on their translation philosophy, textual sources, and linguistic choices. For example:

Some translations, such as the NIV and the NET, use the term “human beings” instead of “Mankind” in Genesis 5:1–2, to avoid the possible confusion or exclusion of women10 11
Some translations, such as the KJV and the NKJV, follow the traditional Hebrew text (Masoretic Text or MT) in Genesis 5:32, which says that Noah was 500 years old when he became the father of Shem, Ham, and Japheth. However, some translations, such as the NRSV and the ESV, follow the Septuagint (LXX), which is an ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, and say that Noah was 500 years old when he became the father of Shem, and two years later he became the father of Ham and Japheth12 13 This difference affects the chronology of the flood and the ages of Noah’s sons.
Some translations, such as the NIV and the ESV, use the term “walked faithfully” or “walked with” to describe the relationship between Enoch and God in Genesis 5:22, 24. However, some translations, such as the NET and the NLT, use the term “walked in close fellowship” or “enjoyed a close relationship” to make the meaning more clear and vivid14 15

Repetition of words or phrases: There is some repetition of words, phrases, or concepts in this chapter, which may indicate importance or emphasis. For example:

Some of the words that don’t translate well are:

Some of the other translation issues include:

The use of numbers and names in this chapter may have symbolic or theological significance, rather than literal or historical accuracy 23 For example, some scholars have suggested that the long lifespans of the patriarchs reflect their idealized status or their proximity to God, rather than their actual ages. Similarly, some scholars have suggested that the names of the patriarchs may have etymological or thematic connections to their roles or characters, rather than their actual meanings.
The purpose and genre of this chapter may affect the way it should be translated and interpreted. For example, some scholars have suggested that this chapter is not a historical or scientific account of the origins and ages of the human race, but a theological and literary account of the continuity and diversity of God’s plan and promise through the line of Seth.
The source and reliability of the textual variants in this chapter, especially the differences between the MT and the LXX. For example, some scholars have argued that the LXX preserves a more original or accurate version of the primeval chronology than the MT, while others have argued that the LXX reflects a later or corrupted version of the primeval chronology than the MT.
The interpretation and application of the theological and literary implications of this chapter, especially the meaning and significance of the image of God, the long lifespans, and the exceptional cases of Enoch and Noah. For example, some scholars have argued that this chapter teaches the inherent dignity and equality of all human beings as God’s image-bearers, while others have argued that this chapter teaches the gradual deterioration and corruption of the human race as sinners.

Exegesis

Genesis 5: The Genealogy of Adam to Noah. This chapter records the names, ages, and descendants of the ten patriarchs from Adam to Noah. It shows the continuity of God’s promise and plan through the line of Seth, the son of Adam who was appointed by God after the death of Abel. It also shows the contrast between the godly line of Seth and the ungodly line of Cain, who is not mentioned in this genealogy. The chapter also highlights the exceptional cases of Enoch, who walked with God and did not die, and Methuselah, who lived the longest of all the patriarchs. The chapter ends with the introduction of Noah and his three sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth, who will play important roles in the next chapters.

Seeing Jesus

The passage bears witness to Jesus as the Creator and Sustainer of all things, who made mankind in His own image and likeness (Genesis 5:1–2; Colossians 1:15–17).

The passage also bears witness to Jesus as the promised Seed of the woman, who would crush the head of the serpent and redeem the fallen human race (Genesis 3:15; Galatians 4:4–5).

The passage further bears witness to Jesus as the Son of God and the Son of Man, who came from the line of Seth and Noah, fulfilling the prophecies and types of the Old Testament (Luke 3:23–38; Hebrews 11:5–7).

The passage finally bears witness to Jesus as the Lord and Judge of all, who will come again with His saints to execute justice and mercy on the earth, and to establish His eternal kingdom (Jude 14–15; Revelation 21:1–7).

Prophecies about Jesus:

The name of Seth, which means “appointed” or “granted”, foreshadows the appointment of Jesus as the Messiah and the grant of salvation to those who believe in Him (Genesis 5:3; Acts 2:36; Ephesians 2:8–9).
The name of Noah, which means “rest” or “comfort”, foreshadows the rest and comfort that Jesus gives to those who are weary and burdened by sin and sorrow (Genesis 5:29; Matthew 11:28–30; Hebrews 4:9–11).
The translation of Enoch, who walked with God and did not die, foreshadows the resurrection and ascension of Jesus, who also walked with God and overcame death (Genesis 5:24; Hebrews 11:5; Acts 1:9–11; 1 Corinthians 15:20–23).
The prophecy of Enoch, who announced the coming of the Lord with His saints to judge the world, foreshadows the second coming of Jesus, who will also come with His saints to judge the world (Jude 14–15; Revelation 19:11–16; 2 Thessalonians 1:7–10).

Interpretation

Denominational differences: There are some denominational differences in the interpretation of this passage, especially regarding the chronology, the longevity, and the significance of the genealogy and the preaching of Enoch. For example:

Some denominations, such as the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and some Anglican and Lutheran churches, follow the Septuagint version of the Old Testament, which gives different numbers for the ages and years of the patriarchs than the Hebrew Masoretic Text, which is followed by most Protestant churches. This affects the calculation of the date of creation and the flood, and the correlation with other historical sources and scientific evidence.
Some denominations, such as the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the Jehovah’s Witnesses, and some Pentecostal and Charismatic churches, interpret the longevity of the patriarchs literally, and attribute it to the pre-flood environment, the genetic purity, and the divine blessing. Other denominations, such as the United Methodist Church, the Presbyterian Church (USA), and some Reformed and Evangelical churches, interpret the longevity of the patriarchs symbolically, and attribute it to the literary style, the numerical patterns, and the theological significance.
Some denominations, such as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Community of Christ, and some Restorationist churches, regard the genealogy and the preaching of Enoch as sources of additional revelation and doctrine, and accept the Book of Moses and the Book of Enoch as inspired scriptures. Other denominations, such as the Southern Baptist Convention, the Assemblies of God, and some Fundamentalist and Conservative churches, regard the genealogy and the preaching of Enoch as sources of historical and typological information, and reject the Book of Moses and the Book of Enoch as apocryphal writings.

Doctrine:

The doctrine of creation, which affirms that God is the Creator and Sustainer of all things, and that mankind is created in His image and likeness, and has a special relationship and responsibility with Him (Genesis 5:1–2; Colossians 1:15–17).
The doctrine of sin, which acknowledges that mankind is fallen and corrupted by sin, and that sin brings death and judgment upon the human race and the whole creation (Genesis 5:5, 29; Romans 5:12–14; 8:19–23).
The doctrine of salvation, which proclaims that God has a plan and a promise to save mankind from sin and death, and that He has sent His Son, Jesus Christ, as the Seed of the woman, the Son of God, and the Son of Man, to fulfill the prophecies and types of the Old Testament, and to accomplish the redemption and restoration of His people and His creation (Genesis 3:15; 5:3, 29; Luke 3:23–38; Galatians 4:4–5; Revelation 21:1–7).
The doctrine of faith, which teaches that the only way to please God and to inherit His promises is to believe in Him and to walk with Him, and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him and obey Him, and that He will take them to be with Him forever (Genesis 5:24; Hebrews 11:5–7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16–18).
The doctrine of eschatology, which reveals that God has a purpose and a goal for the history and destiny of the human race and the whole creation, and that He will come again with His saints to judge the world in righteousness and mercy, and to establish His eternal kingdom of peace and joy (Jude 14–15; Revelation 19:11–16; 21:1–7; 2 Peter 3:10–13).

Practical lessons

This passage teaches us some practical lessons about God, man, and ourselves.

What does this passage tell us about God?

The Creator and Sustainer of all things, who made mankind in His own image and likeness, and who blesses and cares for His creation (Genesis 5:1–2).
The Judge and Savior of all, who sees the wickedness and corruption of the human race, and who prepares a way of escape and salvation for those who trust and obey Him (Genesis 5:29; 6:8–9).
The Lord and Friend of His people, who walks with them and speaks to them, and who rewards them with His presence and His promises (Genesis 5:24; 6:13–22).

What does this passage tell us about man?

Created and named by God, who gave him a special relationship and responsibility with Him and His creation (Genesis 5:1–2).
Fallen and mortal, who suffers the consequence of sin and death, and who needs God’s grace and salvation (Genesis 5:5, 29).
Diverse and unique, who has different names, ages, and descendants, and who has different roles and characters in God’s plan (Genesis 5:3–32).

What does this passage demand of me?

Recognize and worship God as my Creator and Sustainer, and to live according to His image and likeness, and His will and ways (Genesis 5:1–2).
Repent and believe in God as my Judge and Savior, and to trust and obey His plan and promise, and His word and command (Genesis 5:29; 6:8–9).
Walk and fellowship with God as my Lord and Friend, and to seek and enjoy His presence and His rewards, and His vision and His purpose (Genesis 5:24; 6:13–22).

How should this passage change the way I relate to people?

Respecting and loving them as God’s image-bearers and creation, and as my fellow human beings and neighbors (Genesis 5:1–2; Matthew 22:37–40).
Sharing and witnessing to them the gospel of God’s grace and salvation, and inviting them to join God’s family and people (Genesis 5:29; 6:8–9; Mark 16:15–16).
Encouraging and supporting them in their walk and fellowship with God, and in their roles and characters in God’s plan (Genesis 5:24; 6:13–22; Hebrews 10:24–25).

How does this passage prompt me to pray to God?

Praising and thanking Him for His creation and His blessing, and for His image and His likeness in me (Genesis 5:1–2; Psalm 139:13–14).
Confessing and asking Him for His forgiveness and His salvation, and for His grace and His mercy in my life (Genesis 5:29; 6:8–9; 1 John 1:9).
Seeking and requesting Him for His presence and His rewards, and for His vision and His purpose for me (Genesis 5:24; 6:13–22; Matthew 6:33).

Summary

Genesis 5 is a chapter that tells us who were the great-great-great-great-great-grandparents of Noah, the guy who built a big boat and saved his family and the animals from a huge flood. It also tells us how old they were, and how many kids they had. Some of them lived for a very long time, like almost a thousand years! Can you imagine celebrating your 900th birthday? That would be awesome!

This chapter also tells us that God made the first human being, Adam, in His own image and likeness, which means that He made him to look like Him and to act like Him. God also gave him a name, which means “man” or “human”. God also blessed him and his wife, Eve, and told them to have many children and to take care of the earth. God also gave them another son, Seth, after their first son, Abel, was killed by their second son, Cain. Seth also looked like Adam, and he also had a son, Enosh, who also had a son, and so on.

This chapter also tells us that one of Adam’s descendants, Enoch, was a very special person, who walked with God and did not die. Walking with God means that he had a close and loving relationship with God, and that he followed God’s will and ways. God was so pleased with Enoch that He took him away from the earth and brought him to heaven, without letting him die. That was amazing!

This chapter also tells us that another one of Adam’s descendants, Noah, was also a very special person, who found grace in the eyes of the Lord. Grace means that God gave him something good that he did not deserve, because God loved him. Noah’s father, Lamech, gave him a name that means “rest” or “comfort”, because he hoped that Noah would bring relief and deliverance from the hard work and the pain that they had to endure because of Adam’s sin. Noah also had three sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth, who will play important roles in the next chapters.

This chapter tells us many things about God and about us. It tells us that God is our Creator and our Friend, who loves us and cares for us, and who has a plan and a promise for us. It also tells us that we are God’s image-bearers and His creation, who need His grace and His salvation, and who have a special relationship and responsibility with Him and His creation. It also tells us that we should walk with God and trust in His word, and that He will reward us with His presence and His promises.

Note: The majority of this content was generated through a very precise series of prompts using Microsoft Copilot.