In His ImageSample

Day 30: Jesus and the Ark of Noah

Discover: In Genesis 6:14-22, God reveals His plan to destroy the earth with a flood due to humanity’s corruption, but He instructs Noah to build an ark to save his family and the animals. However, as we evaluate this chapter's language, we see strikingly similar details to the beginning of the creation narrative. Even though there is destruction on the earth, God has a plan to restore brokenness. God provides specific details for the ark's construction, including its dimensions, materials, and features. He establishes a covenant with Noah to save him, his family, and pairs of every living creature. Noah faithfully follows God’s instructions, demonstrating his obedience and trust in God's plan.

Learn: The author, Moses, carefully chooses which details to share and which to withhold regarding the ark's construction. It is vital to understand what is shared about the ark's construction. Even the measurements communicate a profound idea to us. Many have tried to replicate the ark, but suppose the measurements are not given for replication but to reveal God’s heart to be with His people. If we pay close attention, we can see how the ark’s design symbolizes God's deliverance. The ark is built so Noah can be with God in a broken world. Therefore, the ark is not simply a boat for Noah to survive; it is a vessel of deliverance under God's guidance. God preserves His image in a safe, divine refuge. From the moment humanity is cast out of the Garden, God creates a path for unity with His people. The ark points to a picture of God’s salvation plan, where God and man can be in harmony through Christ.

Apply: Just as Noah obeys God by entering the ark to save his family, Jesus obeys His Father by going to the Cross to save humanity. The ark, made of wood, saves Noah and his family from physical death. In contrast, the wooden cross saves us from spiritual death. This clearly teaches us that we find our ultimate refuge in Christ just as Noah and his family find sanctuary in the ark amidst the floodwaters. He is our Ark of Salvation. He provides deliverance from the judgment of sin and the world's brokenness. Because Christ is our salvation, we no longer need a man-made structure for deliverance. So, we, like Noah, have an opportunity to go to Christ and find safety for our souls. What other passages in Scripture challenge you to actively seek refuge in Christ amidst the challenges you face today? How can these passages help you change your outlook on your current circumstances?