The Ark Myth

Most of us grew up with Bible stories. Who can forget Adam and Eve, David and Goliath, or the parting of the Red Sea? Then, of course, we all remember Noah and the flood. Today, some 4000 years later theologians, scientists, anthropologists, and many others are still debating the validity and details of the flood story. Was the story just an allegory? Was the ark really big enough to hold all those animals? What about insects? Was the flood local or global? Who was in charge of all those sanitation issues?

We won’t attempt to answer all those question here, but let’s look at another aspect of this historical event. Jesus and Peter believed it was an actual event (Luke 17:25-27, 1 Peter 3:20) and so do I. But, there is a very common misconception or myth circulated about this very important Bible account.

If we took a survey most people would say that during the construction period of the ark, Noah preached to the lost encouraging them to avoid judgment and join him on the Ark. But, is that the real story? No, it is not.

We do know from Scripture that God had determined that the earth and all living things on it would be destroyed. In Genesis 6:7,8 God says: I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the land, from man to animals to creeping things and to birds of the sky; for I am sorry that I have made them.” But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD.

Then God makes a covenant with Noah and his family and only with Noah and his family. There is no direction from God for Noah to try and convert others. From a practical standpoint I doubt there would be room on the ark anyway. There is no revelation in Scripture that God was open to changing His mind about destroying mankind. And, He did destroy the world. Not one soul beyond Noah’s eight were saved.

One other myth associated with this story is that it took Noah 120 years to build the ark. Again, not true. According to Answers in Genesis, it was more likely 55-75 years. See their great explanation of this at: www.answersingenesis.org/articles/2010/06/01/long-to-build-the-ark.

Because of these myths and others, it is so important that we read the Scriptures for ourselves and note the details. Details matter. God didn’t waste one word when inspiring the biblical writers. So, read, study, and enjoy.