Imagine going back in time more than 4,000 years and finding the ancient world, in many ways, like the world we are living in today. Some things never change. Solomon spoke the truth when he said “there is no new thing under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9).
Noah is the classic example.
The Lord Jesus said, “And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man” (Luke 17:26). The world at the end of time will resemble the world that was destroyed in Noah’s time. If Noah’s world is a mirror of the world we are living in, perhaps there is much we can learn from Noah and his family about what believers should be doing just before the end comes.
The nearer we get to the end, the more we must go back to the beginning. Peter wrote, “For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men” (2 Peter 3:5-7). This is our world!
Peter goes on to ask, “Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?” This is not just history – it is prophecy! And it is to be a reality in our lives.
Noah’s story is emphasized throughout God’s Word because it gives both comfort and challenge for those living in difficult times. His example provides lasting lessons for the last days.
Our next ETJ podcast series will take us back in time and forward to eternity. This study of both Old and New Testament Scriptures will encourage your faith and give practical help for the generation we are called to serve. Do not think of the story of Noah as depressing – it is hopeful! Look at the rainbow and see the goodness of God.
Please join us for this short series on your favorite podcast platform or at enjoyingthejourney.org/broadcast. It is a privilege and responsibility to live on the edge of eternity. Discover what God wants for you and your family in these days.
