Text: Genesis 14
Lot had the misfortune of becoming a captive in a war that was being waged around him. Abram pursued the capturing armies, defeated them, freed Lot, then met two kings after his victory. There are several lessons we can learn from these events.
Lot’s Capture (Genesis 14:8-12)
- Life is uncertain – Lot came to Sodom expecting ease & prosperity (Genesis 13:10-12); this war, his capture, and his loss were not part of the plan (cf. James 4:14)
- Riches are temporary – Lot lost his possessions to the enemy army (cf. Matthew 6:19-21)
- Physical consequences for our choices – Lot chose to live in Sodom, suffered loss; Abram didn’t suffer loss or capture; we can’t foresee everything, but as much as possible, be “shrewd as serpents” (Matthew 10:16)
Abram’s Mission (Genesis 14:13-16)
- Prior preparations – he had 318 men already trained and ready to go; he was prepared for conflict (cf. Ephesians 6:11)
- He took action when needed – it is one thing to prepare, another to act; God expects His people to be doing, not just preparing (cf. James 1:22)
- He acted to help others, not himself – King of Elam was fighting for his own wealth & power; Abram fought to free others & restore their possessions; acted for the good of others (cf. Philippians 2:3-5)
Abram & Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18-20)
- Blessings come from God – Abram pursued, strategized, fought, and defeated the enemy, but God delivered them into his hands; we must work, but without God’s blessing, our work is in vain (cf. Psalm 127:1)
- The tithe from Abram – given to the priest, therefore, it was also for God; God expects us to give back to Him for what He has given us (cf. 1 Corinthians 16:2; Romans 12:1)
- Melchizedek was greater – shown in Melchizedek blessing Abram (Hebrews 7:6-7); later used to prove Jesus’ superiority over Abraham & the Levitical priests (Hebrews 7:17)
Abram & the King of Sodom (Genesis 14:21-24)
- Following God, forsaking certain types of gain – King of Sodom offered Abram the goods; he refused on account of a promise he made to God; following God means we must forsake certain things of this world (cf. 1 John 2:15-17)
- Self-reliance is desired – Abram was very wealthy, not because he was enriched by an earthly king, but because God had blessed him; if one is able to take care of himself, he should (2 Thessalonians 3:7-10); reflects a trust in God & His providence
