“And God said to Noah, ‘The end of all flesh has come before Me, for the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold, I will destroy them with the earth.'”
“Then the Lord said to Noah, ‘Come into the ark, you and all your household, because I have seen that you are righteous before Me in this generation.'”
(Genesis 6:13 & Genesis 7:1)
These two verses are the perfect illustration of how the different Names of God represent His many attributes. I hope to clarify this concept for you and stir up excitement about the richness of God’s Word.
Okay, here we go. Same story; two different Names for God.
In Genesis 6:13 the Hebrew Name for God is Elohim, “And Elohim said to Noah, ‘The end of all flesh has come…'”
Elohim refers to God’s justice. It literally means “The Creator.” As Creator, Elohim is Sovereign over all the universe. Think of it this way, “The scope of His rule not only includes the entire physical universe, but it exceeds it. He existed before all creation, He expands beyond it, and by virtue of having begotten it, He encompasses all that it is.” (commentary, Spirit Filled Life Bible) Elohim is the King of His creation. All power and authority comes from Him.
Elohim’s creation had become a mess – a land of corruption and lawlessness – and there was nothing for a Holy God to do except destroy it. Make no mistake, God will not be mocked.
But now, look at at Genesis 7:1, “Then the Lord said to Noah…” The Hebrew word for Lord is Adonai which reflects His mercy. “Then Adonai said to Noah, ‘Come into the ark, you and all your household…'”
Do you see the contrast? Elohim was used to demonstrate God’s authority, but Adonai was used as the flooding began and Noah and his family were tucked away safely in the ark.
