Here is a summary of Ellen G. White's commentary on Genesis chapter 6, based on her writings: 1. The Wickedness Before the Flood: - The earth was filled with violence and corruption. The descendants of Seth (the "sons of God") began to mingle and intermarry with the descendants of Cain (the "sons of men"), leading to a loss of their holy character and an increase in idolatry and wickedness (see 3SG 60.2; 1SP 66.1). - "God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually" (Genesis 6:5, quoted in multiple places such as PP 78.4, DA 633.2, SJ 181.2). - The forbearance of God in sparing Cain allowed sin to multiply, showing that unchecked sin leads to greater boldness and defiance (PP 78.2; GC 543.2). 2. The Divine Response: - God’s patience had limits. When the wickedness became overwhelming, God declared, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth” (Genesis 6:7, PK 297.2). - The destruction of the antediluvian world was both a judgment and a mercy, preventing the further spread of evil (PP 325.2). 3. The Righteous Remnant: - Despite the prevailing corruption, there were a few who remained faithful, such as Noah and his family (3SG 60.2; 1SP 66.1). - The preservation of Noah’s family was to ensure the survival of righteousness on the earth. 4. Broader Lessons: - The history of Genesis 6 is used as a warning for later generations. Ellen White draws parallels between the antediluvian world and the state of the world in her own time, noting similar trends of lawlessness, violence, and disregard for God’s commandments (DA 633.2). - The events before the Flood illustrate the results of rejecting God’s law and following Satan’s policy (PP 78.4). 5. Theological Insights: - The long lives of the antediluvians were not a blessing to the wicked, as it allowed them to become more corrupt (PP 325.2). - The mingling of the righteous with the wicked led to the loss of distinctiveness and increased sinfulness. In summary, Ellen White’s commentary on Genesis 6 emphasizes the progressive corruption of humanity, the consequences of mingling with the ungodly, God’s justice and mercy in judgment, and the importance of remaining faithful amidst widespread apostasy. Academic References: - Ellen G. White, Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3, p. 60.2 - Ellen G. White, Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, p. 66.1 - Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 78.2, 78.4, 325.2 - Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy, p. 543.2 - Ellen G. White, Prophets and Kings, p. 297.2 - Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages, p. 633.2 - Ellen G. White, Story of Jesus, p. 181.2 If you would like more detailed quotations or a focus on a specific aspect of Genesis 6, please let me know!