Text: 2 Peter 2:6-9
Lot is described as being “righteous,” yet he was not without his faults. In Lot we see one who was righteous, yet too often focused on the wrong thing, tolerated too much, and compromised with the world. There are some important lessons we can learn from Lot’s example, both good and bad.
Lot Was a Provider
- Lot looked for a place that would best sustain his herds and support his people (Genesis 13:10-12) – we also have a responsibility to provide for our own (1 Timothy 5:8); this requires a willingness to work hard (Colossians 3:23) and sacrifice (2 Corinthians 12:14-15)
- But Lot ignored the evil influences he would encounter (Genesis 13:13) and it cost him (Genesis 19:14,26,32) – while we must provide, we must also provide spiritual training/direction (Joshua 24:15; Ephesians 6:4); worldly success/wealth is not worth it if it is spiritually detrimental to our family (Proverbs 17:1)
Lot Was Conscientious
- Lot’s soul was tormented by the sin around him (2 Peter 2:7-8) – the people of God should be bothered by sin (Psalm 119:104; Acts 17:16)
- But Lot chose to stay (Genesis 13:12) – it is impossible to “go out of the world” (1 Corinthians 5:10) so we cannot eliminate contact with sinners; however, we must carefully consider the spiritual implications of our surroundings (Revelation 18:4)
Lot Was a Protector
- Lot welcomed the strangers (angels) and protected them from the angry mob (Genesis 19:1-7) – he was showing hospitality, as we are instructed to do (Hebrews 13:2)
- But Lot offered his daughters to them instead (Genesis 19:8) – poor judgment; it is understandable to consider homosexuality as being “worse” than other types of fornication (Romans 1:26-27); but sin is still sin (James 2:10-11); do not condone one sin because it is “better” than another
Lot Was Pure in Heart
- Lot’s daughters made a plan to have children with their father (Genesis 19:30-36) – they did not entice him by lust because he was righteous (2 Peter 2:8); they did not try to reason with him to convince him that the situation warranted this sin (Genesis 19:31); they got him drunk because this was the only way he would have sexual relations with them (cf. Proverbs 23:33; 31:5)
- But Lot should have avoided alcohol (Proverbs 23:31-32) – “a little wine” is permitted for medicinal purposes (1 Timothy 5:23); otherwise, Christians must avoid it (1 Peter 4:3)
Lot Believed God’s Warning
- When Lot heard of the coming destruction, he tried to convince his sons-in-law to escape also (Genesis 19:14) – he obviously believed the warning and knew God would destroy the city (Genesis 19:12-13)
- But Lot hesitated (Genesis 19:15-16) – do not hesitate if you need to be saved from the wrath of God (Acts 22:16); do not hesitate if you need to make correction in your life (2 Corinthians 6:1-2)
Conclusion
- The example of Lot shows how a righteous man can make mistakes and sin
- Not to excuse sinful behavior – to encourage us to be careful to serve God faithfully
