God had told Noah what to do, and he did it (Gen. 6:22; 7:5,9). The ark provided a perfect shelter from the storm of God’s anger. Obeying God always brings deliverance, blessing and happiness, all the way through a believer’s life.
V.1 “Come in” (Gen. 8:16, “go forth”). We have to come in (Matt. 11:28) before we can go out (Mark 16:15). We must also separate from the world (Heb. 13:13; James 4:4). Separation is not isolation. Mixing with the world (to socialize) spoils our testimony. But telling others about Christ keeps us healthy Christians.
V.2-5,8 The animals were in two classes — clean and unclean.
V.10 After closing the door, God waits once more, just in case there might be a turning to Him. Jesus was seen standing, waiting in case Israel would turn to Him, even after He had gone back to heaven (Acts 7:56). We believers are now in that period of time. The door is still open. God is waiting for the last ones to be saved before He acts. The coming of the Lord Jesus for us (believers) will be the end of the day of grace. The door will then be shut.
V.11-24 Noah was in the ark altogether one year and 10 days (Gen. 7:11; 8:14).
V.23 Judgment fell on every living person, animal and bird outside the ark. And so today, not one person who has ever heard the gospel of the grace of God will ever have a second chance after the Lord Jesus comes.