What does Hebrews 11:7 mean?

Explanation

Hebrews 11:7 recounts the obedience and faith of Noah as described in the book of Genesis.

The verse speaks to the faith Noah had in God, which prompted him to act, despite not seeing physical evidence of what was warned, by building an ark as instructed. His actions were based on his reverent fear of God and trust in His word.

The verse highlights the notion that Noah's faith was an active faith; it led to a tangible response.

Additionally, the verse posits that through his faith and the consequential actions, Noah not only saved his household but also condemned the world by providing a stark contrast to the disbelief and disobedience prevalent at the time.

Lastly, it affirms that Noah became an heir of righteousness, aligning this righteousness not with his own deeds but with his faith.

Historical Context

The verse is part of the New Testament's Epistle to the Hebrews, typically dated between AD 60 and AD 70.

The precise authorship of Hebrews is unknown, but the epistle aims to demonstrate the supremacy of Christ and the importance of faith.

The historical setting involves a community of early Christians who may have faced persecution and were at risk of reverting to Judaism or renouncing their faith.

The cultural and historical backdrop would have included a mix of Hellenistic and Jewish influences on thought, religion, and daily life.

The reference to Noah and the ark hearkens back to the Genesis flood narrative, which would have been a familiar and foundational story for both Jewish and Christian audiences.

Theological Insights

From the theological perspective, differing views may arise:

1. Faith and Action - Some view this verse as a testament to the necessity of faith leading to action. For them, Noah exemplifies 'active faith,' demonstrating that genuine belief is transformative and requires obedience.

2. Salvation by Faith - Another viewpoint emphasizes the salvation Noah achieved through faith, aligning with Protestant doctrines of sola fide, meaning salvation by faith alone, not through works.

3. Judgment and Redemption - The verse is also read in the light of God's judgments and the offer of redemption. Noah's faith sets him apart and condemns the world by providing a contrast to the corrupt society around him.

4. Type of Christ - Some theologians argue that Noah is a type of Christ, prefiguring Christ's redemptive work. As Noah's faith and obedience saved his family, so does Christ's work offer salvation to all who believe.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages believers today to:

1. Heed Warning - Pay attention to divine warnings, even if they pertain to events that are not immediately visible.
2. Active Faith - Let faith propel them into action, reflecting that belief in God carries practical implications for life.
3. Godly Fear - Approach life with a reverent fear of God, recognizing His authority and righteousness.
4. Witness - Through faithful living, provide a testimony to the world that may contrast with secular society.

Cross-References

• Genesis 6:13-22 - Details the instructions God gave Noah to build the ark and his obedience.
• 2 Peter 2:5 - Refers to Noah as a "preacher of righteousness."
• Ezekiel 14:14 - Mentions Noah as a righteous man.
• Matthew 24:37-38 - Jesus compares the days of Noah to the end times, highlighting the suddenness of judgment.

Language Study

In this verse, there are a few key words worth examining:

• "Faith" (Greek: πίστις, pistis) - Defined as trust, belief, or confidence in God.
• "Warned" (Greek: χρηματίζω, chrematizo) - Refers to a divine communication or revelation.
• "Moved with fear" (Greek: εὐλαβεόμενος, eulabeomai) - Indicates a reverent or pious care, taking something seriously with due respect.
• "Heir" (Greek: κληρονόμος, kleronomos) - A recipient of inheritance, in this context linked not to material possessions but to spiritual or moral qualities like righteousness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The narrative of a great flood is present in other ancient cultures like the Epic of Gilgamesh, Atrahasis Epic, and the story of Utnapishtim.

In many of these stories, a select individual is saved due to their unique righteousness or favor with a deity, similar to Noah's experience in the Hebrew Bible.

However, the Biblical narrative is unique in framing the event as a response to widespread human wickedness and highlighting the central theme of faith.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, the feasibility of a worldwide flood as described in the book of Genesis continues to be a topic of debate among researchers.

While some seek to interpret geological evidence as supportive of a global flood, the majority of the scientific community sees no evidence for such an event on a scale consistent with the biblical narrative. Instead, local flood theories or mythological interpretations are often proposed.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators have analyzed Hebrews 11:7 from various angles:

• Matthew Henry emphasizes the faith of Noah, which was accompanied by holy fear, as the great principle and power of all the duties that are acceptable to God.
• John Wesley also focuses on Noah's faith, mentioning that the building of the ark was an extraordinary work of faith, considering the length of time it took and the scorn it likely invited.

Other experts acknowledge the illustrative function of Noah's story in Hebrews, using it, as well as others mentioned in the chapter, to establish a "cloud of witnesses" that encourages believers to endure in faith and obedience.