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“Deliverance”The eighth chapter of the Book of Genesis is another one of those very famous stories. I’m talking of course of Noah’s flood. This chapter details the circumstances of the ark and her passengers upon the diluvian baptismal waters. Many who have grown up in the church likely know this story by heart, but how many of us then take the time to read and examine the details therein?
At the outset, one might claim to notice a contradiction. It seems that God had forgotten Noah and the little ark floating upon the great terrestrial sea. Yet, we confess there are no contradictions in Scripture and that God is all-knowing. How do we reconcile these? Well, definitions matter and knowing the difference between a contradiction and a paradox is elemental. |
God’s acting in covenant promise to abate the deluge prompts Noah to test the waters. This is not a bad thing, for work on our part as covenant children is both necessary and expected. Noah’s first test of sending out a raven fails; he is, after all, only human. The second try he sends out a dove, which proves more promising for the Patriarch and his family.
Noah visually confirms what the dove has proved, and he peers upon fresh dirt. Holding back any excitement, he and all the ark’s passengers remain on board, patiently waiting the command of God. Job was legendary for his patience, but I’d argue Noah would give him a run for his money.
In the end, God’s deliverance is true and Noah does the only correct response: worship. He rightly worships God according to His design and brings to the altar of the Lord his thanksgiving, awe, and reverence. The display of God’s preservation, mercy, and wrath climaxing in the cross of Christ should likewise move us to worship Him. (October 9, 2022)
Noah visually confirms what the dove has proved, and he peers upon fresh dirt. Holding back any excitement, he and all the ark’s passengers remain on board, patiently waiting the command of God. Job was legendary for his patience, but I’d argue Noah would give him a run for his money.
In the end, God’s deliverance is true and Noah does the only correct response: worship. He rightly worships God according to His design and brings to the altar of the Lord his thanksgiving, awe, and reverence. The display of God’s preservation, mercy, and wrath climaxing in the cross of Christ should likewise move us to worship Him. (October 9, 2022)