Learning from Lot (PM)

Scripture Reading:  Genesis 19:30–38

Introduction      

A.  By the mercy of God, Lot survived the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, yet his life was nothing to be envied when he awoke from his wine in a cave a few days later.

B.  One might wonder how a “righteous man” (2 Peter 2:7) could ever find himself in a situation like this.

Discussion

I.  Lot made decisions based on outward appearance.

A.  This led him to “pitch his tent toward Sodom” (Genesis 13:1–13).

B.  The Bible warns us repeatedly against making judgments in this way (1 Samuel 16:7, Matthew 23:27).

C.  What looks harmless can be deadly (2 Samuel 6:3–7).

II.  Lot chose bad company for himself and his family.

A.  He left his godly uncle for the wicked men of Sodom.

B.  Lot even took his young daughters into this environment and allowed them to select mates there (Genesis 19:14).

C.  As Christians, we need to be careful where we make our companions (1 Corinthians 15:33; 2 Corinthians 6:17).

III.  Lot allowed worldly things to cloud his judgment.

A.  He let greed cloud his judgment (cf. Matthew 6:20, 33–34).

B.  He let fear cloud his judgment (Genesis 19:19, 30).

C.  He let alcohol impair his judgment (Genesis 19:31–36).

Conclusion

A.  Lot may have thought that his own righteousness would safeguard him against the evil influences of Sodom.

B.  Lot’s decision appears wise to the world as it stood to bring him much earthly gain, but it cost him and his family dearly.

C.  Where will you choose to pitch your tent?