Definition: And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth [person], a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly;
Explanation: Okay, letâs break down this verse from 2 Peter 2:5. Itâs a really interesting and somewhat mysterious passage about Godâs plan for humanity. Hereâs what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about God saving a few people who weren't fully devoted to God, and specifically, Noah. It suggests that God is actively working to protect those who are on the path toward righteousness â meaning they are trying to follow His will. Letâs unpack it piece by piece: âAnd spared not the old worldâŠâ : "Old world" refers to humanity as it was before a significant event, often described as a time of sin and disobedience. ââŠbut saved Noah the eighth [person]âŠâ : Noah is a very important figure in Jewish tradition â he's considered a righteous man who followed Godâs instructions well. This verse says that God chose to save one person named Noah, and this was the eighth person to be saved. âa preacher of righteousnessâŠâ : This is key. "Preacher" means someone who teaches or shares their beliefs. âOf righteousnessâ means they were striving to live a good life and follow God's laws. ââŠbringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly;â : This is the most surprising part. A "flood" was a massive, devastating deluge â a great storm of water that covered everything. The verse says God saved Noah because he was preaching righteousness. It means that this person was trying to show others how to live right and good, and God chose to punish those who didn't. Whatâs the Significance? This is a complex idea. It suggests: Godâs Judgment: God isn't just passively letting things happen; He's actively intervening to protect those who are striving for good. A Warning: It could be seen as a warning to all people â we should always strive to live right and follow God's teachings, even if it means facing consequences or challenges. Important Note: The exact meaning of this passage has been debated throughout history. Itâs often interpreted as a symbolic representation of the coming judgment of God, but it also carries deeper theological implications about God's love and his plan for humanity. Resources to Learn More: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/bible/2Peter/2%3A5](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/bible/2Peter/2%3A5) - This provides a deeper look at the verse's context and interpretation. Different Bible Websites: Search for "2 Peter 2:5 explanation" on reputable Bible websites (like Bible.org, Shepherdâs Table, etc.) --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore different interpretations of it?