In his sermon, Robert Daniel discusses the story of Noah, acknowledging that while often taught to children, it holds profound sadness due to the fate of those outside Noah's family during the flood. He highlights the wickedness on Earth at that time, with every intent of human hearts being only evil, leading God to grieve over His creation. Despite the rampant sin, Noah found favor with God because of his righteousness and obedience.

Robert reflects on the present day, drawing parallels between the times of Noah and our own. Despite the sin in the world, he notes that our gathering and open Bibles are evidence of our continued love and service to God. He encourages the congregation to recognize that we have not yet become completely lost to sin and that there is still time to turn things around.

Robert then recounts God's instructions to Noah to build an ark, providing a means of salvation from the impending flood. He proposes that the 120 years mentioned in Genesis might refer to the time Noah had to construct the ark, during which he would have also preached righteousness. He suggests that Noah, knowing the fate that awaited those who would not heed God's warning, likely shared his message with friends and extended family, though ultimately only eight people were saved.

As he continues, Robert draws attention to the final steps Noah took before the flood, including gathering the animals. He describes the onset of the flood, the closing of the ark's door by God Himself, and the tragic fate of those outside. He emphasizes that everything inside the ark lived, while everything outside perished, underscoring the gravity of obedience to God's instructions.

Connecting the story of Noah to the teachings of Jesus, Robert cites Matthew 7:13-14, which speaks of the narrow gate that leads to life and the broad way that leads to destruction. He likens being inside the body of Christ to being on the ark, stressing the urgency of being prepared for Jesus' return and the final judgment.

In conclusion, Robert urges the congregation to remember that God's patience has limits, that obedience to God has its rewards, and that disobedience has consequences. He calls on everyone to share the message of salvation with those who have not yet accepted it, reminding them that the time to prepare is now.

Key Takeaways:

1. The story of Noah is not just a tale for children but a sobering reminder of God's grief over sin and His mercy towards those who are righteous. It teaches us that even amidst widespread wickedness, individuals can find favor with God through obedience and faithfulness.

2. Our presence in worship and our desire to study God's Word are testaments to the fact that, even in a world rife with sin, there are still those who seek to serve God. This should encourage us to persevere in our faith and to be beacons of light in an increasingly dark world.

3. Noah's obedience in building the ark according to God's precise instructions exemplifies the importance of following God's will in our lives. Our salvation hinges on our willingness to adhere to God's commands, just as Noah's did during the construction of the ark.

4. The closing of the ark's door by God signifies the finality of His judgment. It serves as a stark reminder that there will come a time when the opportunity for salvation will no longer be available, and we must be prepared before that moment arrives.

5. The parallel between the ark and the body of Christ illustrates the necessity of being within God's chosen means of salvation. Just as the ark was the only refuge from the flood, so too is Christ the only refuge from eternal judgment. We must ensure that we are securely within the body of Christ before it is too late.