Genesis 7:1-3 And the LORD said to Noah, Come you and all your house into the ark; for you have I seen righteous before me in this generation.… I. THE CHARACTER WHICH NOAH SUSTAINED. "Righteous." 1. Few of the ancient worthies are more frequently or more honourably mentioned than Noah (Ezekiel 14:14; Luke 17:26; Hebrews 11:7). 2. The faith of Noah was a lively, active faith; it produced obedience to the Divine command. 3. He was a man of deep piety. 4. He was a genuine philanthropist (2 Peter 2:5). II. THE TIME WHEN HE SUSTAINED THIS CHARACTER. "In this generation." 1. This generation was completely given up to infidelity and iniquity. 2. In this generation it is probable that Noah would meet with opposition and insult from all quarters. III. THE CONSEQUENCE OF HIS SUSTAINING SUCH A CHARACTER. "Come thou and all thy house into the ark." 1. While the flood was teeming upon the ungodly with dreadful impetuosity, Noah was safe in the ark, instructing his family, and communing with his God. 2. While the evil-doers were swept from the face of the earth and their names buried in eternal oblivion, Noah came safely out of the ark, became the father of a new race, and finally died in peace. IV. APPLICATION. 1. Noah heard, believed, and obeyed God. Do we imitate him? 2. Noah was righteous in that generation of universal degeneracy, when he had every difficulty, and no encouragements. Are we as righteous in this generation, when we have but few obstacles and many advantages? (Benson Bailey.) Parallel Verses KJV: And the LORD said unto Noah, Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before me in this generation. |
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