The Event of Divine Notice refers to a significant moment in biblical history when God explicitly acknowledges or takes special notice of an individual, group, or event, often resulting in a profound impact on the course of biblical narrative. This concept is woven throughout Scripture, illustrating God's active involvement in the lives of His people and His sovereign will in the unfolding of redemptive history.

Old Testament Instances

1. Noah and the Flood: One of the earliest examples is found in Genesis 6:8, where "Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD." This divine notice led to Noah's selection to build the ark, preserving humanity and animal life through the flood. God's attention to Noah's righteousness amidst a corrupt generation underscores His ability to discern and act upon the faithfulness of individuals.

2. Abraham's Call: In Genesis 12:1-3, God takes notice of Abram (later Abraham) and calls him to leave his country and kindred to become the father of a great nation. This divine notice establishes the Abrahamic Covenant, a foundational element in the biblical narrative, promising blessings to Abraham and his descendants.

3. Moses and the Burning Bush: In Exodus 3:4, God notices Moses turning aside to see the burning bush and calls out to him, initiating Moses' role as the deliverer of Israel from Egyptian bondage. This event marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, demonstrating God's awareness of their suffering and His plan for their liberation.

4. Hannah's Prayer: In 1 Samuel 1:19-20, God takes notice of Hannah's heartfelt prayer for a child, resulting in the birth of Samuel, who would become a significant prophet and judge in Israel. This instance highlights God's attentiveness to personal petitions and His power to intervene in human barrenness.

New Testament Instances

1. Mary, the Mother of Jesus: In Luke 1:28-30, the angel Gabriel visits Mary, declaring that she has found favor with God. This divine notice leads to the incarnation of Jesus Christ, the central event of the New Testament, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and initiating the New Covenant.

2. The Baptism of Jesus: In Matthew 3:16-17, as Jesus emerges from the waters of baptism, the heavens open, and God takes notice, declaring, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." This event affirms Jesus' divine sonship and inaugurates His public ministry.

3. The Conversion of Saul: In Acts 9:3-6, God takes notice of Saul (later Paul) on the road to Damascus, appearing to him in a blinding light. This divine encounter transforms Saul from a persecutor of Christians to a pivotal apostle, emphasizing God's sovereign choice and redemptive power.

Theological Significance

The Event of Divine Notice underscores several key theological themes:

· God's Sovereignty: These events illustrate God's sovereign control over history and His ability to intervene in human affairs according to His divine purposes.
· Human Responsibility: While God initiates these moments, human response plays a crucial role. Individuals like Noah, Abraham, and Mary respond in faith and obedience, aligning themselves with God's will.
· Covenantal Relationship: Divine notice often results in the establishment or reaffirmation of covenants, highlighting the relational aspect of God's interactions with humanity.
· Redemptive Purpose: Each instance of divine notice contributes to the overarching narrative of redemption, pointing ultimately to the work of Jesus Christ.

In summary, the Event of Divine Notice is a recurring motif in Scripture, demonstrating God's active engagement with His creation and His purposeful direction of history toward the fulfillment of His redemptive plan.