Genesis 11 gives us the only written record of an explanation for the many different human
languages. The chapter shows that the confusion of tongues was an outgrowth of human
presumption and disobedience (i.e. sin).
In Genesis 11:1-9 we have a revelation of human ambition. The explanation of the builders
of a tower reveals an ungodly purpose: “Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its
top in the heavens, and let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be dispersed over the face of
the earth” (v. 4). But to disperse was the will of God (cf. Gen. 9:1, 7). Yet, the people were
determined to achieve fame in future generations. They preferred to remain a closely welded
unit and refuse to obey God’s injunction. The tower would provide the rallying point and be a
token of their oneness of purpose. With no need for God, they would climb right into heaven by their own hands. No effort would be spared. They would make the bricks (cf. 11:3).
In Genesis 11:1-9 we have a manifestation of divine displeasure. God allowed things to take
their course then took control and intervened. After inspecting the work of the Babylonians, God confused their language so they could not understand each other. Then He dispersed them (vv. 7, 8). The very thing they were laboring to prevent was the thing that came upon them.
In Genesis 11:1-9 we have a recitation of great importance. A “recitation” is teaching or
instruction. The words of this text teach us some valuable lessons. 1) God is watching (cf. Heb.
4:13). 2) The builders defied the word of God and were confounded (cf. Prov. 30:6). 3) That
which holds us together as a family of God is not a building, nor a program, nor a fellowship, nor a gymnasium, nor a banquet, but the word of God. 4) Our salvation is not in the satisfaction of our “felt needs.” Our salvation is in Christ. 5) We cannot deny God. In Shinar, the people worked according to a plan of their own, but they were spread abroad according to God’s plan.