Dr. Lawrence Butler

The Bridge Church, Pembroke

I am certainly aware that there is some overlap with the scriptures covered in today’s lesson and those presented last week. However, there are a number of things that need to be pointed out and carefully considered before we move forward with our study. It is my hope that even with these short studies each week a little more knowledge of God’s word settles in the hearts of the readers.

Today I simply must examine the life of Lot for a few minutes.

First, he was the nephew of Abraham, the father of our faith as stated by Paul (Rom. 6:4,16). It is clearly evident that he lacked the spiritual commitment that Abraham possessed. Both he and Abraham returned from Egypt with great wealth, but it seemed more important to Lot than Abraham. When strife arose between the large groups of herdsmen who worked for the two men, separation was in order.

Lot quickly chose what looked best to the natural eye. In other words he looked toward Sodom, saw the well-watered plain, and chose what looked good, not that which was good. It presented him with an opportunity to continue to grow his wealth while focusing on the happiness of his own family. His lack of concern for his elderly uncle, who was responsible for their natural blessings as well as their spiritual ones, simply reflects the selfishness of the natural man.

The parties of Sodom, the allure of prominence and freedom from the condemnation of Uncle Abraham appealed to Lot and his family. They became so entrenched in Sodom that they became ensnared in its sin. When confronted by an angry mob demanding the two strangers (we know them as angels) be released to them to satisfy their abusive lust, Lot offered his two daughters in their place. What godly man would do such? When informed of the pending doom of Sodom by the angels, Lot was unable to convince his wife, daughters or sons-in-law to flee.

Finally the angels grasped them by the hands and set them outside the city.

Do you understand my shock when I read in II Peter 2:8 that he was a righteous man? It would not surprise me to learn that Abraham’s constant prayers for Lot made the difference in that man’s life. Who knows, possibly someone’s prayers are making a difference in your life.

Maybe you don’t think so because times are hard, but things could be worse. Just remember, if God can deliver Lot and his family from Sodom, He is able to deliver you!