When Jesus spoke about His eventual return, He referenced two historical periods — the days of Noah and the days of Lot. These comparisons serve as profound prophetic warnings about the state of humanity and the world before His Second Coming.
By examining these eras, we gain insight into the societal conditions, moral decay, and spiritual apathy that will characterize the last days.
Let us explore what Jesus said and delve into the characteristics of Noah’s and Lot’s times as described in Scripture.
The Words of Jesus
In Luke 17:26-30, Jesus said:
“As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man: They ate, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. Likewise, as it was also in the days of Lot: They ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built; but on the day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and destroyed them all. Even so will it be in the day when the Son of Man is revealed.”
Through these words, Jesus highlighted the complacency and preoccupation with daily life that characterized these eras. The warnings serve as a call to vigilance and spiritual readiness for His return.
The Days of Noah
The story of Noah’s time is found in Genesis 6:1-8. Humanity had reached unprecedented levels of corruption and wickedness. The Bible describes this period as a time when “the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually” (Genesis 6:5).
Characteristics of Noah’s Era
- Moral Decay: The people in Noah’s day were consumed by self-interest and materialism. Similar to Paul’s warning in 2 Timothy 3:2-4, they were “lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers … lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.” Today’s culture mirrors these traits. The rise of social media has amplified self-obsession and the relentless pursuit of personal validation. Just as in Noah’s day, spiritual apathy and moral degradation are evident.
- Demonic Influence: The mention of the Nephilim in Genesis 6:1-4 points to the unnatural union between fallen angels and humans. This corruption of God’s creation symbolizes the rebellion and lawlessness that permeated society. In modern times, the influence of dark spiritual forces can be seen in the normalization of practices and ideologies that distort God’s design. Technological advancements like genetic engineering and transhumanism raise ethical and theological concerns, echoing the mingling of “iron and clay” described in Daniel 2:31-44.
- Disregard for God’s Warnings: Despite Noah’s preaching of righteousness, the people ignored God’s warnings. This parallels today’s indifference to the gospel and the rejection of absolute truth.