Topical Encyclopedia In the context of biblical themes and narratives, the concept of a "lifeboat" is not directly mentioned in Scripture, as the technology and terminology are modern developments. However, the idea of a vessel or means of salvation from perilous waters is a recurring motif in the Bible, symbolizing divine deliverance and protection.Noah's Ark The most prominent biblical narrative that parallels the concept of a lifeboat is the account of Noah's Ark. In Genesis 6-9, God instructs Noah to build an ark to save his family and pairs of every living creature from the impending flood. The ark serves as a vessel of salvation, preserving life amidst the judgment of the floodwaters. Genesis 7:23 states, "Every living thing on the face of the earth was destroyed—man and livestock, crawling creatures and birds of the air; they were blotted out from the earth, and only Noah and those with him in the ark remained." Jonah and the Great Fish Another narrative that reflects the lifeboat theme is the account of Jonah. When Jonah is thrown overboard during a violent storm, God provides a great fish to swallow him, preserving his life. Jonah 1:17 records, "Now the LORD had appointed a great fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah spent three days and three nights in the belly of the fish." This miraculous provision serves as a lifeboat, saving Jonah from drowning and ultimately leading to his repentance and obedience to God's call. Paul's Shipwreck In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul's shipwreck on his journey to Rome (Acts 27) illustrates God's providential care in the midst of maritime disaster. Although the ship is destroyed, all aboard are brought safely to land. Acts 27:44 recounts, "The rest were to follow on planks and various parts of the ship. In this way everyone was brought safely to land." While not a lifeboat in the traditional sense, the broken pieces of the ship serve as a means of deliverance for Paul and his companions. Symbolism of Salvation The lifeboat, as a symbol, can be seen as a representation of God's saving grace through Jesus Christ. Just as a lifeboat rescues individuals from physical danger, Christ offers salvation from spiritual peril. In John 3:16 , it is written, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This verse encapsulates the ultimate deliverance offered through faith in Christ, akin to being rescued from the stormy seas of sin and death. Conclusion While the Bible does not explicitly mention lifeboats, the underlying principle of divine rescue and protection is evident throughout its pages. The narratives of Noah, Jonah, and Paul, among others, highlight God's sovereignty and mercy in delivering His people from danger, both physical and spiritual. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A strong, buoyant boat especially designed for saving the lives of shipwrecked people.Library The Voyage and Shipwreck The Fainting Soul Revived The Covenant Promise of the Spirit The Ship on Fire --A Voice of Warning The First Preaching at Antioch Saving Faith. True Wisdom. "Ye are the Light of the World. " The Lost Silver Piece John 7:37-38. "Let any Man Come. " Thesaurus Lifeboat (3 Occurrences)... (n.) A strong, buoyant boat especially designed for saving the lives of shipwrecked people. Multi-Version Concordance Lifeboat (3 Occurrences). ... /l/lifeboat.htm - 7k Life-breath (1 Occurrence) Life-blood (4 Occurrences) Resources What can we learn from the account of Peter walking on water? | GotQuestions.orgWho was D. L. Moody? | GotQuestions.org Lifeboat: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Lifeboat (3 Occurrences)Acts 27:16 Acts 27:30 Acts 27:32 Subtopics Related Terms |