Finding a Faithful Older Brother: What Shem, Ham, and Japheth Reveal about Christ and the Cosmos (Ge

Occoquan Bible Church | Sermons

Dear OBC Family,

I have to make a confession: When I started to prepare for this week’s sermon on Genesis 9:18–29, I didn’t think much of the passage. Or, at least, I didn’t quite know what to make of it. This last section about Noah does not have the same drama as the flood, it’s not that long, it’s something of a transition passage, and its curse on Canaan and blessing on Shem does not seem to have an immediate application today.

At least, that’s how I thought about Genesis 9 when the week began.

As I write this email, however, I am now convinced that this little section of Genesis 9 is more than a transition from Noah to the nations. The section is not a transition at all. Rather, it is the foundation for understanding three different kinds of people that fill the world today!

And more, by reading this passage carefully, it helps us to know who we are and how we might be blessed and not cursed. That is to say, this passage does more than tell us something about the past. It tells us something about the Lord of all creation who fills heaven and earth and how we know him and be like him.

That is what this passage has for us. And as we prepare for Sunday, I would ask you to read Genesis 9 and to pray that God would give us insight into what it means to be a true child of God! On Sunday, I will share more.

As the Lord allows, I look forward to seeing you on Sunday!

For His Glory and your joy in Christ,

Pastor David

Discussion & Response Questions ( Genesis 9:18-29)Consider how the events immediately after the Flood mirror Genesis 1-3. What does this new beginning look like, and how is it marred?

How does the vineyard mirror Eden? In what ways is it similar, and how is it different?

Consider the sin, covering, curse, and blessing that unfolds in Genesis 9. How is this similar and distinct from Genesis 3?

What are the interpretations of Ham’s sin? What are you biblically persuaded of, and why?

Look for repetition regarding Canaan. Why is this significant?

Compare and contrast Noah’s sons, and the blessings given to Shem and Japheth, and the curse given to Ham.

Historically, how has the curse of Ham been misrepresented?

Why does the priestly role of Noah play a part in understanding the drama of Genesis 9:18–29?

How does the Bible speak about wine? What is the biblical ethic of wine for the Christian?

What does Scripture teach about nakedness and covering nakedness?

How might application of this text differ between the first audience with Moses, and the church today?

How should we respond to this text?