Genesis 19:27-38

From his devotional commentary on Genesis, W. H. Griffith Thomas reminds us that Lot, like Balaam, King Saul and Solomon, is a beacon to warn us about starting well and finishing poorly.  Lot’s story must warn us of the tragedy of sin and the seriousness of it’s consequences.  That is so evident in the closing words of this chapter.

There are two remarkable, contrasting pictures in this passage.  First, Abraham went early in the morning to look towards the city.  This suggests his deep concern for Lot, his brother’s son.  The first sight of fire and smoke must have been shocking.  But perhaps he was able to see the three figures making their way to Zoar, and then up into the mountains.  Or perhaps he simply had the assurance of God.  In any event we are told, “God remembered Abraham.”  Abraham’s prayer was answered.

But then, second, we are told Lot went up out of Zoar and dwelt in the mountains.  Again, there were only three: Lot and his two daughters.  Other family members (e.g. sons in law, indicating he had other daughters) had thought he was joking about judgment to come.  Isn’t that typical of most people?  Judgment is the stuff of a comedy routine.  The preacher whose simply message is “repent” is laughed at, not only by the world but often by professing believers.  But it is no joke.  Sin brings death.  The soul that sins shall surely die.  The wrath of God is very real.

The last thing we hear of Lot bears out the terrible, shameful consequences of sin, even in this life.  His two daughters, despairing of ever having husbands or children, deceive their weak father.  In two nights of drunkenness each daughter lies with Lot, producing sons by incest.  

Friend, God has allowed these shameful events to be recorded for us for a reason.  We must not allow ourselves to be deceived so as to think sin is no big deal.  It is a big deal.  It is an affront to the God Who created us.  We are accountable to Him.  We must seek Him, that we might know Who He is and what He requires of us.  We must hear our conscience that tells us we have failed to live up to His standard.  We must know how we can be forgiven of sin and guilt.  All this will lead you to Jesus Christ, the One who died in our place, paying the awful price of redemption.  (Rom. 3:21-26)