Genesis 11:1-9

Summary: The confusion of languages at Babel is often thought of exclusively in terms of judgment. And it is. However, read in the light of Genesis 1:28 and 9:1 (God’s command to fill the earth), it is also a means for accomplishing God’s purpose. An array of cultures and languages is in keeping with God’s created intent for human beings. At Pentecost, God reverses the confusion of Babel, but not the linguistic or cultural diversity (all hear in their own languages). Revelation 7 affirms that the praise of Christ is all the more glorious as his church gathers from every nation and tribe and language to worship as one. This is the world-wide mission of Pentecost.