1. In Genesis 6:11-13 the Bible states twice that the earth was filled with violence before the flood. 2. We conclude from these verses that violence is an old problem. 3. Man has struggled with it and suffered from it for a long time. 4. In our lesson we are pointing out from the Bible: a. when and how violence began b. how God feels about violence c. keys to overcoming violence. 5. Let us first point out . . .
Discussion:
I. WHEN AND HOW VIOLENCE BEGAN
A. Cain committed the first act of violence when he killed Abel (Genesis 4:8). B. Please note that: 1. God is not responsible for the existence of violence a. God did not include violence in Creation (Genesis 1:31). b. Man introduced violence, and man is responsible for it. 2. innocent people often suffer because of the actions of violent people. a. God is not responsible for this. b. Those who commit the violent acts are responsible. C. Cain committed the first act of violence, but it escalated. 1. In Noah's day, man had become very corrupt (Genesis 6:5). 2. (vs.6-7) Man's wickedness became so great that it grieved God at His heart. 3. As we pointed out earlier, the earth was "filled with violence" (vs.11, 13). 4. Note also that corruption is associated with violence. D. The book of Genesis shows how and when violence began as well as how it escalated.
II. HOW GOD FEELS ABOUT VIOLENCE
A. Cain's punishment shows that God does not approve of it (Genesis 4:10-12). B. From the flood we conclude that God does not approve of violence. C. We learn from Psalm 11:5 that God hates those who love violence.
III. KEYS TO OVERCOMING VIOLENCE
A. Violent people must be avoided (Proverbs 4:14-17). 1. God knows that violent people will have an evil influence upon His people (Proverbs 16:29). 2. This principle is also touched on in 1 Corinthians 15:33. B. The Golden Rule must be practiced (Matthew 7:12). C. Revenge must be avoided (Romans 12:17-21). D. Violent people must be punished by the state (Romans 13:3-4). E. Things listed in the following verses that lead to violence must be eliminated. 1. Ephesians 4:31 2. Colossians 3:8 3. 1 John 3:15 F. Things listed in the following verses that eliminate violence must be practiced. 1. Colossians 3:12-15 2. Ephesians 4:32
Conclusion:
1. We have seen from the Scriptures that violence is an old problem -- man has struggled with it and suffered from it for a long time. 2. However, in Genesis 6:8-9 Noah showed us that it is possible to live in a violent world without becoming violent -- let us follow his example. 3. In closing, let us read the instructions given in 1 Timothy 2:1-4.
