Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionNoah, a pivotal figure in the biblical narrative, is renowned for his unwavering faith and obedience to God amidst a world steeped in corruption and violence. His decisions, as recorded in the Book of Genesis, reflect a profound commitment to righteousness and divine instruction. Noah's life and choices offer a profound example of faithfulness and obedience to God's will. Biblical Context Noah's account is primarily found in Genesis 6-9. During his time, humanity had become exceedingly wicked, prompting God to express regret for creating mankind. "The LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great upon the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was altogether evil all the time" (Genesis 6:5). In this context, Noah stands out as a beacon of righteousness. "Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his generation; Noah walked with God" (Genesis 6:9). The Decision to Build the Ark God's decision to bring a flood upon the earth to destroy all flesh was accompanied by a command to Noah to build an ark. This decision required immense faith and trust in God, as there was no precedent for such an event. "So God said to Noah, 'I have determined to make an end of all flesh, for the earth is filled with violence through them. Behold, I will destroy them with the earth. Make yourself an ark of gopher wood...'" (Genesis 6:13-14). Noah's decision to obey God's command, despite the apparent absurdity and the ridicule he likely faced, is a testament to his faith. "And Noah did everything that the LORD had commanded him" (Genesis 7:5). His obedience was not partial but complete, reflecting a heart fully surrendered to God's will. The Decision to Enter the Ark As the time for the flood approached, Noah faced another critical decision: to enter the ark with his family and the animals. This decision was not merely about physical survival but was an act of faith in God's promise and judgment. "Then the LORD said to Noah, 'Go into the ark, you and all your household, because I have found you righteous in this generation'" (Genesis 7:1). Noah's entry into the ark symbolizes a separation from the sinful world and a commitment to God's plan for salvation. It underscores the importance of heeding God's warnings and taking refuge in His provision. The Decision to Worship After the floodwaters receded and Noah emerged from the ark, his first recorded action was to worship God. "Then Noah built an altar to the LORD and took of every clean animal and every clean bird, and offered burnt offerings on the altar" (Genesis 8:20). This decision to worship reflects Noah's gratitude and acknowledgment of God's mercy and faithfulness. Noah's worship was pleasing to God, who responded with a promise never to curse the ground again on account of man. "And when the LORD smelled the pleasing aroma, He said in His heart, 'Never again will I curse the ground because of man, even though every inclination of his heart is evil from his youth. And never again will I destroy all living creatures, as I have done'" (Genesis 8:21). Legacy of Noah's Decisions Noah's decisions had far-reaching implications, not only for his immediate family but for all of humanity. His faith and obedience preserved the human race and established a covenant relationship with God. "And God said, 'This is the sign of the covenant I am making between Me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set My rainbow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between Me and the earth'" (Genesis 9:12-13). Noah's life serves as a powerful example of the impact of righteous decisions made in faith. His account encourages believers to trust in God's promises, obey His commands, and remain steadfast in righteousness, even when faced with overwhelming challenges. Nave's Topical Index Hebrews 11:7By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. Nave's Topical Index Library Letter Lxxviii. (AD 404. ) John xviii. 37 Wilt Thou be Made Whole? Three Decisive Steps The Council of Jerusalem. Talmage -- a Bloody Monster Acts XV The Education of the World. Interpretation of Prophecy. The Formation of the Old Testament Canon Resources What does the Bible say about decision-making? | GotQuestions.orgHow should a Christian view the Roe vs. Wade decision? | GotQuestions.org Is loving God an emotion, a feeling, or a decision? | GotQuestions.org Decision: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Decision: Exhibited in Being on the Lord's Side Decision: Exhibited in Blessedness of Decision: Exhibited in Following God Fully Decision: Exhibited in Keeping the Commandments of God Decision: Exhibited in Loving God Perfectly Decision: Exhibited in Seeking God With the Heart Decision: Exhibited in Serving God Decision: General Scriptures Concerning Decision: Necessary to the Service of God Decision: Opposed to a Divided Service Decision: Opposed to Double-Mindedness Decision: Opposed to Halting Between Two Opinions Decision: Opposed to not Setting the Heart Aright Decision: Opposed to Turning to the Right or Left Valley of Decision: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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