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The toledothic formula (This is the account of. . .”) in v.9 introduces a new section to the book. Just as 2:4 inaugurated the story of Adam, so 6:9 begins the story of Noah with a brief synopsis of his character. In contrast to Noah’s righteousness, the world is thrice condemned as corrupt (vv.11-12) and twice cited as filled with violence (vv.11, 13)! So God declares his intent to destroy his creation by means of a cosmic flood (6:13, 17; 7:4, 23). By so doing, the contagious spread of sin seen in earlier chapters will be halted, if only temporarily.
Despite the seeming wrath of God’s plan, the divine mercy is clearly seen in the instructions given to Noah, which will enable the family of Noah to survive the Flood (6:18). Provision is also made for the continuity of the animal world. Two of every species are to be included in the ark that Noah is commissioned to build (vv.19ff.). Lovely is the description of obedience that was the hallmark of Noah’s life: Noah did everything just as God commanded him (v.22). Noah would not merely survive the flood, but he would carry the promise of a new humanity into a new age.
The Deluge occurs as it was predicted. It is not within the scope of this commentary to express an opinion regarding the natural or historical features of the Flood. This is evidently a historical recollection of a fact rooted in history. God executes judgment on a recalcitrant creation (7:4, 6, 10ff.). This harsh indictment upon the world (6:7, 13, 17; 7:4, 23) betrays, not a God acting vindictively, but One who grieves over his creation (6:6). At the moment of judgment, Noah and his family are ushered into the ark. One senses the compassion and mercy of God in the acknowledgment that the Lord shut him in (7:16). While he is decisive in destroying the world, God is also careful to ensure the salvation of righteous Noah. God has not given up on creation.
The new beginning is stated succinctly: But God remembered Noah (8:1). It portrays a faithful and loving God who does not forget his people in their distress (cf. Ex 2:24). It is this remembering that enables the possibility of a new creation. Noah “steps into a virgin world washed clean by judgment” (Kidner, 92).