THE CYCLE OF SIN, MERCY, AND JUDGEMENT IN GENESIS

As we continue studying Genesis, a recurring pattern becomes increasingly clear—one that highlights God's mercy but also humanity’s tendency to drift.

Genesis 9 closes the account of the first world destroyed by the flood, a story that began in chapter 6 with sin and judgment. In Genesis 10, we are introduced to the second world—similar to how Genesis 5 gave a record of the first. From this point onward, we observe a repeating cycle:

1.      Mercy is extended – often through God’s covenant or calling.

2.      A covenant is made – such as God’s covenant with Noah or His calling of Abraham.

3.      Sin follows – like the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11 or Egypt in Abraham’s story.

4.      Judgment comes – either through scattering, plagues, or divine correction.

This pattern is not just historical; it’s deeply theological. It reveals both the constancy of human failure and the enduring nature of God’s grace.

Understanding this rhythm helps us read Genesis not just as ancient history but as divine insight into the human condition—and the redemptive heart of God.