“And they that went in, went in male and female of all flesh, as God had commanded him: and the LORD shut him in.”
Context: Genesis 7 describes the account of Noah and the Great Flood. God had seen that the wickedness of mankind had increased, and He decided to bring judgment upon the earth. However, Noah found favor in the eyes of God because he was a righteous man, and God instructed Noah to build an ark to preserve him, his family, and a remnant of every kind of land-dwelling animal.
Obedience to God’s Command: In verse 16, we see that Noah obeyed God’s command fully. He followed God’s instructions and gathered male and female animals of every kind, as God had commanded him. Noah’s obedience is highlighted as an essential characteristic of his faith. It demonstrates his trust in God and his willingness to carry out God’s will even in the face of adversity or doubt.
Divine Intervention: The latter part of the verse states, “and the LORD shut him in.” After Noah and the animals entered the ark, God Himself sealed the door. This act of God’s intervention is significant because it symbolizes His protection and provision. It emphasizes that Noah and his family were secure inside the ark, shielded from the impending judgment outside. It also demonstrates God’s faithfulness in keeping His promises.
Application and Lessons:
- Obedience and Faith: Noah’s obedience teaches us the importance of obeying God’s commands and trusting in His plans. Just as Noah followed God’s instructions, we should seek to live in obedience to God’s Word and trust in His guidance, even when the circumstances may seem challenging or uncertain.
- God’s Protection: Noah’s story assures us that God is our protector. Just as He shut the door of the ark and kept Noah safe, God watches over His faithful ones. We can find comfort and security in knowing that God is with us and will provide for our needs.
- God’s Judgment and Salvation: The Great Flood serves as a reminder of God’s holiness and justice. It reveals that sin has consequences. However, it also demonstrates God’s mercy and salvation through Noah and the ark. It points forward to the ultimate salvation provided through Jesus Christ, who offers deliverance from sin and eternal life to all who believe in Him.
In summary, Genesis 7:16 showcases Noah’s obedience to God’s command, God’s act of sealing the ark, and the lessons we can learn from this account, such as the importance of obedience and faith, God’s protection, and the ultimate salvation found in Christ.
