Hebrews 11:7

By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in godly fear built an ark to save his family. By faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.

Study Bible

By faith Noah
Noah is introduced as a man of faith, a key theme in Hebrews 11. His faith is demonstrated through his actions, which align with the definition of faith as "confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see" (Hebrews 11:1). Noah's faith is a model for believers, showing trust in God's promises despite the lack of visible evidence. This faith is consistent with the broader biblical narrative, where faith is often shown through obedience to God's commands.

when warned about things not yet seen
Noah received a divine warning about the impending flood, a future event that was unprecedented and unseen. This highlights the prophetic nature of God's communication with Noah, as well as Noah's ability to trust in God's word without physical evidence. This mirrors the Christian belief in the unseen realities of God's promises and the future fulfillment of His plans, as seen in 2 Corinthians 5:7, "For we walk by faith, not by sight."

in godly fear
Noah's response to God's warning was characterized by "godly fear," a reverent respect and awe for God's power and holiness. This fear is not terror but a recognition of God's authority and a motivation for obedience. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom," indicating that such fear leads to wise and righteous living.

built an ark to save his family
Noah's construction of the ark was a tangible expression of his faith and obedience. The ark, a massive vessel, was built according to God's specific instructions (Genesis 6:14-16). This act of building the ark is a type of Christ, as the ark provided salvation from the flood, just as Christ provides salvation from sin. The ark's construction also demonstrates the importance of following God's guidance precisely.

By faith he condemned the world
Noah's faith and obedience stood in stark contrast to the wickedness of the world around him. His actions served as a condemnation of the world's unbelief and disobedience. This echoes the role of believers as witnesses to the truth, as seen in John 3:19-21, where light exposes darkness. Noah's life was a testimony to the righteousness that comes through faith.

and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith
Noah is described as an heir of righteousness, emphasizing that righteousness is received through faith, not works. This anticipates the New Testament teaching of justification by faith, as articulated in Romans 4:3, where Abraham's faith is credited as righteousness. Noah's inheritance of righteousness foreshadows the believer's inheritance in Christ, highlighting the continuity of God's plan of salvation through faith across both the Old and New Testaments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Noah
A righteous man chosen by God to build an ark and save his family from the flood. His faith and obedience are highlighted in this verse.

2. The Ark
A large vessel constructed by Noah as instructed by God to preserve human and animal life during the flood.

3. The Flood
A cataclysmic event sent by God to cleanse the earth of its widespread wickedness, sparing only Noah, his family, and the animals aboard the ark.

4. The World
Refers to the people and society of Noah's time, characterized by corruption and violence, which Noah's faith implicitly condemned.

5. Righteousness by Faith
The state of being justified and made right with God through faith, as exemplified by Noah.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
Noah's faith was demonstrated through his obedience to God's command to build the ark, despite the lack of visible evidence of the coming flood. True faith results in action.

Godly Fear
Noah's reverence for God motivated him to act. A healthy fear of the Lord leads to wisdom and obedience.

Condemnation of the World
By living righteously, Noah's faith stood in stark contrast to the sinful world around him. Our lives should similarly reflect God's standards, serving as a testimony to others.

Heir of Righteousness
Noah's faith resulted in righteousness, a gift from God. Believers today are also called to live by faith, trusting in God's promises for righteousness.

Preparedness for Judgment
Just as Noah prepared for the flood, believers are called to be ready for Christ's return, living lives that reflect our faith and hope in Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Noah's example of faith challenge you to act on God's instructions in your life, even when the outcome is not visible?

2. In what ways can you cultivate a godly fear that leads to obedience in your daily walk with God?

3. How does your life serve as a testimony to those around you, similar to how Noah's faith condemned the world?

4. What does it mean to be an "heir of the righteousness that comes by faith," and how can you live this out practically?

5. How can the account of Noah and the flood encourage you to be prepared for Christ's return, and what steps can you take to ensure you are living in readiness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 6-9
Provides the detailed account of Noah, the construction of the ark, and the flood, illustrating Noah's obedience and God's covenant with him.

2 Peter 2:5
Describes Noah as a "preacher of righteousness," emphasizing his role in warning others of the coming judgment.

Matthew 24:37-39
Jesus compares the days of Noah to the coming of the Son of Man, highlighting the suddenness and unexpected nature of God's judgment.

Romans 1:17
Discusses the righteousness that comes by faith, a theme central to Noah's account and the broader message of Hebrews 11.