Who Are the Sons of God in Scripture?

In Genesis 6, we encounter the enigmatic phrase "sons of God." Their identity has puzzled scholars and theologians for centuries. This article explores the various interpretations of this term, particularly in the context of Genesis 6.

Option 1: Sons of God as Sons of Seth

One interpretation suggests that the "sons of God" were descendants of Seth, Adam's righteous son. This view proposes that Seth's lineage remained faithful to God, while Cain's descendants became increasingly wicked.

Option 2: Sons of God as Fallen Angels

The traditional interpretation, supported by ancient Jewish and early Christian writings, is that the "sons of God" were fallen angels. The term "sons of God" is used elsewhere in Scripture to refer to angelic beings.

Peter and Jude's Interpretation

In their writings, Peter and Jude explicitly identify the "sons of God" in Genesis 6 as fallen angels. They refer to spirits disobeying in Noah's day and being chained in prison, which aligns with the account in Genesis.

How Is This Possible?

The text does not explicitly explain how fallen angels could interact with human women. However, it is possible that evil spirits possessed wicked men and used their bodies for their sinful actions. This aligns with New Testament examples of demons indwelling humans and causing them to act in destructive ways.

While the evidence slightly favors the interpretation of the "sons of God" as fallen angels, both interpretations emphasize the deepening sin and distance from God that humanity was experiencing in Genesis 6. The interaction between fallen angels and humanity in this passage foreshadows their influence in the end times through demonic spirits.

Frequently Asked Questions on Sons of God in Scripture

Who are the "Sons of God" in Genesis 6?

The identity of the "Sons of God" in Genesis 6:1-4, who married "daughters of man" and led to the birth of the Nephilim, has been debated by scholars. There are two main interpretations:

Option 1: Sons of God = Sons of Seth

• Interpretation: The "Sons of God" are descendants of Seth, who were pious and married women descended from Cain, leading to increased wickedness.
• Supporting Evidence:
  • There are two lines of descent from Adam: Seth's and Cain's.
  • God's people are sometimes referred to as "sons of God."

Option 2: Sons of God = Fallen Angels

• Interpretation: The "Sons of God" are fallen angels (demons).
• Supporting Evidence:
  • The term "sons of God" is used elsewhere to refer to angelic hosts.
  • The passage seems to contrast "man" and "daughters of man" with "sons of God."
  • Peter and Jude interpret the "sons of God" as fallen angels in their writings.

How is it possible for fallen angels to marry with humans?

While the text does not explicitly explain, it is possible that evil spirits possessed wicked men and used their bodies for their sinful actions. This aligns with New Testament examples of demons indwelling humans and causing them to act in destructive ways.

What is the significance of the "Sons of God" in end-time events?

In Genesis 6, the interaction between fallen angels and humanity influences the end times. Fallen angels affect the earth through demonic spirits and seek to deceive and gain power over humanity. The end goal is the resurrection of the dead as immortal Sons of God.