Genesis 6:5-8 ~ Total Depravity Before the Flood

In Genesis 6:5–8, Scripture gives God’s own assessment of the world just before the flood. Humanity’s wickedness had reached its peak—every intention of the human heart was only evil continually. This passage reveals the doctrine of total depravity, showing not merely outward corruption but a deep, internal rebellion against God. As God looks upon the earth, we see His omniscience, His holy grief over sin, and His righteous judgment. Yet this is not a message of despair. In the darkest moment of human history, Scripture gives one of the most hopeful contrasts in the Bible: “But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.” This sermon explains God’s grief without denying His sovereignty, refutes open theism, and shows how divine judgment and mercy coexist. Noah’s preservation points forward to Christ—the greater Ark—who saves sinners from the coming judgment by grace alone. Genesis 6 is not only a warning of wrath, but a powerful proclamation of grace.