Winning them one by one
by Craig Heidenreich
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Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other (Genesis 11:7).
Read Genesis 11:1–9
Today, in Genesis 11, we have the story of the Tower of Babel.
At about this point in Genesis, the biblical account starts describing the events we see in recorded history (perhaps 3000 BC) as people ‘moved eastward’ into the area that eventually became Babylon.
The rebellious attitude that brought about the recent flood is rising again; however, this time, God initiates a new plan – one that continues to unfold throughout history.
There is more to this story than ‘confusing their language’.
God effectively creates the nations of the earth (dividing them into smaller units) with the view of winning them to himself.
In the next chapter of Genesis, Abraham appears, and God says that all peoples of the earth will be blessed through him. That the Messiah will come from his descendants.
As Jesus comes, this plays out wonderfully with the ‘Great Commission’ (go into all the world). Then, on the day of Pentecost, the Spirit enables all to hear in their own languages (a reverse of Babel).
God has been reaching out to the nations of the earth through Israel and the church, and we have the wonderful description in Revelation of every tribe and tongue worshipping before the lamb (Revelation 7:9)!
What begins as confusion at Babel ends with united worship in heaven!
Lord, your ways are truly wonderful. Thank you for persevering with us through all these generations, and we look with anticipation to joining that great multitude in heaven, worshipping you for all eternity. Amen.
Craig is married to Beverley. They have recently moved to Kapunda in South Australia after purchasing a ‘renovator’s delight’, which keeps Craig occupied most weekends. He says who needs to go to the gym when you can knock down some walls!
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