The Noahic Covenant

Genesis 9:7–11 (NASB95) 

7“As for you, be fruitful and multiply; Populate the earth abundantly and multiply in it.” 8Then God spoke to Noah and to his sons with him, saying, 9“Now behold, I Myself do establish My covenant with you, and with your descendants after you; 10and with every living creature that is with you, the birds, the cattle, and every beast of the earth with you; of all that comes out of the ark, even every beast of the earth. 11“I establish My covenant with you; and all flesh shall never again be cut off by the water of the flood, neither shall there again be a flood to destroy the earth.” 

God renews His blessing to Noah and his sons, commanding them to "be fruitful and multiply" and fill the earth. This command echoes the original creation mandate given to Adam and Eve, signaling a fresh start for humanity after the flood. The use of the Hebrew term "teem" emphasizes the abundant proliferation of life, highlighting God's desire for the flourishing of all creation. This blessing also carries an implicit call to protect and respect life, contrasting with the violence that led to the flood. 

God then formally establishes His covenant with Noah, his descendants, and every living creature. This covenant is universal in scope, extending beyond humanity to include all animals. The language used, "I am establishing my covenant," reflects the fulfillment and confirmation of the promise made before the flood. God promises never again to destroy all life with a flood, ensuring the stability and preservation of the earth. The covenant marks a divine commitment to sustain life despite human sinfulness. 

The covenant with Noah sets a foundation for later biblical covenants, such as those with Abraham and Moses. Ultimately, though, these points lead us forward to the new covenant that will be established with Christ as the mediator. These covenants reveal God's mercy and faithfulness, establishing a pattern of divine promises that shape His relationship with creation. 

The church today must embrace its role as a steward of God's creation and a bearer of His covenant promises. Like Noah, believers are called to live under God's blessing by fostering life and community. The covenant reminds the church that God's mercy extends to all creation and that His promises are sure. The church should encourage faithful obedience to God's commands and trust in His sustaining grace. This covenant calls the church to be a witness to God's faithfulness and a participant in His ongoing work of renewal and preservation in the