Podcast Summary: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Episode: Day 3: Noah's Ark (2025)
Release Date: January 3, 2025

Introduction

In the third episode of Ascension's The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into Genesis Chapters 5 and 6, alongside Psalm 136. This episode continues the journey through the early narratives of the Bible, focusing on the genealogy from Adam to Noah and the onset of widespread corruption that leads to God's decision to cleanse the earth. Fr. Mike’s reflections aim to provide listeners with a deeper understanding of these passages, exploring their theological implications and relevance to contemporary life.

Scripture Readings

Genesis Chapters 5 and 6

The episode begins with a detailed reading of Genesis Chapters 5 and 6, which outline the genealogical lineage from Adam through Seth to Noah. These chapters highlight the longevity of the patriarchs and introduce pivotal figures such as Enoch and Methuselah. The narrative progresses to describe the increasing wickedness of humanity, the arrival of the Nephilim, and God’s decision to bring a flood to purge the earth, sparing only Noah and his family.

Psalm 136

Following the Genesis reading, Psalm 136 is recited. This psalm is a hymn of thanksgiving that emphasizes God's enduring mercy through His mighty acts of creation, deliverance, and provision. The repetitive refrain, "for His mercy endures forever," serves to reinforce the central theme of God's unending compassion and steadfast love.

Reflections and Discussions by Fr. Mike Schmitz

Genealogy and Its Significance

Fr. Mike begins his reflection by addressing the significance of genealogies in the Bible, particularly Genesis Chapter 5. He explains that while modern readers might find genealogical lists tedious, they are strategically placed to set the stage for subsequent narratives. The genealogy of Adam through Seth is contrasted with that of Cain, highlighting two divergent paths of humanity.

Sethite vs. Cainite Lines

Fr. Mike elaborates on the distinction between the Sethite and Cainite lines. The Sethite line, descending from Seth—Adam and Eve’s son born after Cain—exemplifies righteousness and close communion with God. In contrast, the Cainite line, stemming from Cain—the first murderer—represents moral decline and increasing wickedness.

Notable Quote:
Fr. Mike Schmitz (04:30): "Seth's line, the line that worships God, is the one that is singled out as being in the image and likeness of Adam and Eve, who are in turn the image and likeness of God."

Understanding 'Sons of God' and 'Daughters of Men'

A critical discussion revolves around the enigmatic phrase in Genesis 6:1-2, where "the sons of God saw that the daughters of men were fair" and took them as wives. Fr. Mike references Jeff Cavins and Tim Gray's Walking with God to unpack this passage, suggesting that "sons of God" refers to the righteous Sethite lineage, while "daughters of men" symbolize the fallen Cainite lineage.

Notable Quote:
Fr. Mike Schmitz (12:15): "The word Nephilim comes from the Hebrew word 'nephal,' which means to fall. Whereas Seth's line produces righteous men like Enoch and Noah who worship God."

Impact of Intermarriage

Fr. Mike emphasizes the dangers of intermarriage between the Sethite and Cainite lines, illustrating how blending the righteous with the unrighteous leads to moral corruption. He draws a parallel to modern life, where the company we keep and the choices we make in relationships significantly influence our spiritual trajectory.

Notable Quote:
Fr. Mike Schmitz (16:45): "Who you choose to be your spouse determines in so many ways the trajectory of your life, and it determines the trajectory of your family's life, for good and for ill."

Contemporary Relevance and Personal Application

The reflection transitions to applying these ancient lessons to today's context. Fr. Mike encourages listeners to cultivate a biblical worldview, drawing strength from God's word to navigate a world rife with moral challenges. He likens Noah's steadfastness to the believer's journey, urging individuals to cling to God amidst societal decay.

Notable Quote:
Fr. Mike Schmitz (28:10): "We can continue to, as it says about Noah, Noah walked with God. And so today, as we move forward from listening to God's word proclaimed, we can ask the question, God, how do you want me to walk with you?"

Psalm 136: A Hymn of Enduring Mercy

The recitation of Psalm 136 serves as a backdrop to reinforce the theme of God's unwavering mercy. Each verse recounts God's mighty deeds—from creation to the Exodus—culminating in the promise of His enduring compassion. This psalm aligns with the episode's exploration of divine judgment and redemption, highlighting the balance between justice and mercy.

Conclusion and Prayer

Fr. Mike concludes the episode with a heartfelt prayer, thanking God for His unending word and mercy. He underscores the importance of walking with God despite worldly challenges and reiterates the transformative power of scripture in shaping believers' lives.

Notable Quote:
Fr. Mike Schmitz (08:20): "How are you going to walk with God? Like Noah walked with God? And how are you going to cling to him so that even amidst the storms of life, the floods that come, he can continue to lift you up?"

Key Takeaways

• Genealogical Significance: Scriptures often use genealogies to set the foundation for deeper narratives and theological themes.
• Sethite vs. Cainite Lines: Understanding the divergence between these lines illuminates the roots of human righteousness and corruption.
• Intermarriage Impact: Relationships profoundly affect spiritual and moral paths, a principle equally applicable today.
• Walking with God: Personal steadfastness in faith can provide hope and direction amidst societal turmoil.
• Enduring Mercy: God's compassion remains constant, offering redemption and guidance through life's challenges.

Encouragement for Listeners

Fr. Mike encourages listeners to engage deeply with scripture, adopt a biblical worldview, and consciously choose relationships that bolster their faith. He invites them to continue this journey through the Bible in a Year podcast, fostering a life shaped by God's word.

Stay Connected:

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• Bible in a Year Reading Plan: Download at ascensionpress.com by searching for "BibleInAYear."
• Email List: Text the word "Catholic Bible" to 33777.

God bless,
Fr. Mike Schmitz