Sons of God in Genesis 6

There are at least two theories as to the meaning of “sons of God” in Genesis 6:1–4.

Angels intermarrying with human women

“Sons of God” elsewhere, and possibly in Moses’ writings, refers to angels

Dt 32:8 (but see ESV footnote); Job 1:6; 2:1; 38:7; Ps 29:1 (see ESV footnote); Ps 89:6 (see ESV footnote); Dan 3:25

Seems to find support in New Testament

1 Cor 11:10; 2 Peter 2:4–5; Jude 1:6–7

But seems to contradict Jesus’ teaching that angels cannot/do not marry

Mt 22:30 (cf. Mk 12:25; Lk 20:35–36)

This theory also finds support in apocryphal literature such as the Book of Enoch and the Book of Jubilees.

Sethites intermarrying with Cainites

“Son(s) of God” elsewhere, including in Moses’ writings, refers to God’s elect

Ex 4:22–23; Dt 14:1-2; 32:8 (see ESV footnote); Isa 43:6; Jer 3:22; Hos 1:10; 11:1

Sethites were noted for devotion to God, walking with God

Gen 4:26; 5:22–24; 5:29; 6:8–9; Heb 11:5

Cainites were noted for rebellion, sin

Gen 4:8; Gen 4:19; Gen 4:23–24

Mixed marriages are forbidden elsewhere in the writings of Moses

Gen 24:3–4; 28:1; Ex 34:15–16; Dt 7:3