Genesis 7:5

And Noah did all that the LORD had commanded him.

Study Bible

And Noah
The name "Noah" comes from the Hebrew root "נח" (Noach), meaning "rest" or "comfort." Noah is a pivotal figure in the Genesis narrative, representing a remnant of righteousness in a world filled with corruption. His name signifies the role he plays in God's plan to bring rest and renewal to the earth through the flood. Noah's life is a testament to the power of faith and obedience, serving as a precursor to the ultimate rest found in Christ.

did
The Hebrew word for "did" is "עשׂה" (asah), which means to do, make, or accomplish. This action word emphasizes Noah's active obedience to God's commands. It is not merely a passive acceptance but a deliberate and faithful execution of God's will. Noah's actions reflect a life of faith in action, demonstrating that true belief is evidenced by obedience.

all
The word "all" underscores the completeness and thoroughness of Noah's obedience. He did not pick and choose which commands to follow; he adhered to every instruction given by God. This total obedience is a model for believers, illustrating the importance of wholehearted commitment to God's directives. It challenges us to examine our own lives and consider whether we are fully surrendered to God's will.

that the LORD
The term "LORD" is translated from the Hebrew "יהוה" (YHWH), the sacred and personal name of God. This name is often associated with God's covenantal faithfulness and His eternal, unchanging nature. The use of "LORD" here highlights the personal relationship between Noah and God, reminding us that obedience is rooted in a relationship with a faithful and loving Creator.

had commanded
The Hebrew word for "commanded" is "צוה" (tsavah), which means to order or instruct. This term indicates that God's instructions to Noah were not suggestions but authoritative directives. It reflects God's sovereign authority and the expectation of obedience from His creation. Noah's response to God's command is a powerful example of submission to divine authority, encouraging believers to trust and obey God's guidance in their own lives.

him
The word "him" personalizes the command, indicating that God's instructions were specifically directed to Noah. This personal aspect of God's communication underscores the intimate relationship between God and His faithful servant. It serves as a reminder that God knows each of us individually and calls us to specific tasks and purposes in His divine plan. Noah's obedience to God's personal command is an inspiration for believers to listen for and respond to God's unique calling in their own lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Noah
A righteous man chosen by God to survive the flood and preserve human and animal life. His obedience is a central theme in this passage.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His authority and the personal relationship He has with His people. He commands Noah to build the ark and gather the animals.

3. The Ark
A large vessel constructed by Noah according to God's specifications to save his family and pairs of every kind of animal from the impending flood.

4. The Flood
A divine judgment sent by God to cleanse the earth of its widespread wickedness, sparing only Noah, his family, and the animals on the ark.

5. The Pre-Flood World
A time characterized by great wickedness and corruption, prompting God's decision to start anew with Noah and his family.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God’s Commands
Noah's complete obedience to God's commands serves as a model for believers. It demonstrates the importance of trusting and following God's instructions, even when they seem daunting or unclear.

Faith in Action
Noah's actions were driven by faith. His willingness to build the ark despite the absence of rain or visible signs of a flood exemplifies faith in action. Believers are encouraged to act on their faith, trusting in God's promises.

Divine Judgment and Salvation
The flood account underscores the reality of divine judgment and the provision of salvation. Just as Noah was saved through the ark, believers find salvation through Jesus Christ.

Preparedness for God’s Timing
Noah's readiness to act when God commanded highlights the importance of being prepared for God's timing. Believers should live in a state of readiness for God's interventions in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Noah's obedience in Genesis 7:5 challenge us to respond to God's commands in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate faith in action, similar to Noah's building of the ark, in our daily walk with God?

3. How does the account of Noah and the flood help us understand the balance between God's judgment and His provision of salvation?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are prepared for God's timing and interventions in our lives?

5. How can the reference to Noah in Hebrews 11:7 inspire us to live a life of faith and obedience today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 11:7
This verse highlights Noah's faith, which led him to obey God's warning about things not yet seen, building the ark to save his family.

Genesis 6:22
This verse similarly emphasizes Noah's obedience to God's commands, reinforcing the theme of faithful adherence to divine instructions.

Matthew 24:37-39
Jesus refers to the days of Noah as a parallel to the coming of the Son of Man, emphasizing the suddenness and unexpected nature of divine judgment.