Delight in the Word: Security, Self Interest, and God’s Plan to Glorify Himself Among the Nations - Genesis 11:1-12:3

This week we wrapped up our sermon series called Origins looking at the first eleven chapters of Genesis. The first eleven chapters of Genesis lay the foundation for some of most critical truths for life with God and in His world. It shows us how God designed marriage, work, identity and humanity to name a few. It also shows us the reality of the world we live in that is marred by sin and brokenness but it doesn't leave us there. It demonstrates God’s redemptive plan as it is promised and unfolding.

This weeks sermon took a in depth look at God’s plan for the Nations through the account of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11. The account of the Tower of Babel, as the sermon illustrated, is like looking into a mirror and seeing the reality of our sinful hearts. It doesn't just show us the reality of our hearts but it also shows us God’s sovereign and gracious judgment on our sin. Our innate desire as humans is to seek our own interest and security over trusting in God’s plan. God had clearly given them a command according to his good design for them to be fruitful and multiply and spread His glory throughout all the earth. Yet, they decided in their foolishness and sin to disobey and ban together to be there own god.

What is God’s response?

God’s response is that in His mercy, He interrupts their sinful godlike actions by confusing their languages and bringing about His sovereign plan despite their sin. He actually uses the confusion of languages to bring about His glory through His redemptive plan. The gospel becomes all the more beautiful for it now knows no bounds, there is no sin too deep, wall too high, or barrier too hard that God cannot rescue.

“If there were no diversity of languages, if the spectacular sin of Babel had not happened with its judgment, the global glory of the gospel of Christ would not shine as beautifully as it does in the prism of thousands of languages.” - John Piper

Resources 

Article

• Babel and the Beauty of a Thousand Tongues - Trevin Wax

Podcasts

• A Really Tall Tower: Babel - Knowing Faith

Book

• The Gospel in Genesis: From Fig Leaves to Faith - Martyn Lloyd-Jones

 Reflection Questions 

• What are some areas in your life that you are seeking security and selfish interest rather than trusting in God’s good commands?

• How does God’s mercy and judgment in the account of the Tower of Babel encourage you?

• What surprises you in the account of the Tower of Babel?