Genesis is fun to read. But it is more difficult to understand. That takes an understanding of literature and the culture and time frame of the different sections of the book.   

This creation story is not what it seems. It is first of all the introduction to all the rest of the Bible. It is theology rather than history as we often read it. It was written by Moses for the Hebrews on their way out of Egypt to the land God promised where they would become God's show piece and the invitation for all the world to recognize God's wonderful power and holiness and order. It is a call to worship. 

The story of Eden anticipates the big event in the history of mankind, reconciliation with God our creator. This proto-gospel is the most amazing feature of this already amazing story. 

Even though the primeval stories of Genesis are extremely old, they are still extremely accurate as to where and when these events took place. 

The stage is set for the most incredible story to come from ancient times, Eden. The setting is firmly anchored in history and location, but it is much more than history. It is a story that reveals why things are the way they are for humanity.    

Because the prophecy about the seed of the woman in chapter 3:15 is the first of many that together point to the Lord Jesus, I include a chart here. 

Yes. There was a flood. Yes, God preserved Noah and his family for the destiny he had planned for them. They would be the distant ancestors of Abraham, David, and Jesus. 

The story of the flood ends with a promise: God will never flood the land again. And history affirms that to be so.