God Closed the Door

Genesis 7

It must have been a sobering moment when God closed the door of the ark. That single act revealed a lasting reality: some were safely inside, while others remained outside facing judgment. Though this account may sound harsh to modern ears, the difference between salvation and destruction rested on one response—faith in God’s invitation. For a long time, no rain fell, revealing not indifference, but God’s patience before the door was shut.

When God said to Noah, “Come into the ark” (Genesis 7:1), He was inviting His people into the safety of His presence. That same invitation echoes throughout Scripture— “Come,” says Isaiah (Isaiah 1:18); “Come to Me,” says Jesus (Matthew 11:28); and in the final chapter of Scripture, “The Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come’” (Revelation 22:17).

God invites—but we must respond. Many saw the ark and heard the message, yet only those who entered were saved. Being near the ark was not enough. Salvation required stepping through the door God Himself would close—a truth later affirmed by Jesus, who alone has authority to open and close doors (Revelation 3:7–8).

Peter reminds us that God’s patience is often mistaken for delay. The Lord is not slow; He is merciful, desiring repentance before the coming day of judgment (2 Peter 3:9–10). Jesus likewise warned that, as in the days of Noah, life would continue as usual until the door is shut (Matthew 24:37–44). The great danger is not rebellion, but indifference.

Here is the lesson for us today: Noah trusted God, waited on His timetable, and stepped through the door before it was closed. We can rest in God’s patience, but patience is not permission to delay. The time is now. Say yes to Jesus, and step through the door He has opened.