4 JUNE (PREACHED 2 JUNE 1771)
A sad choice
‘And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered everywhere, before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, even as the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar. Then Lot chose him all the plain of Jordan; and Lot journeyed east: and they separated themselves the one from the other.’ Genesis 13:10–11
SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: Luke 18:18–30
Lot’s choice: though he feared the Lord, his great possessions blinded his judgement. He made too light of the privilege of dwelling with Abraham and was more intent upon providing well for his cattle than for himself. Because the land of Sodom was well watered and fruitful, he went to reside there, though they were notoriously wicked. See what was the consequence—he was soon involved in the effects of war. He had not been long in Sodom before he was taken prisoner and lost all his flocks and herds which had occasioned the strife and had tempted him to take up his dwelling in a place where there was no fear of God. He recovered them afterwards, but this was owing to Abraham’s kindness, who forgot the slight put upon him and undertook his rescue. While he dwelt in Sodom his soul was daily grieved with the wickedness of the inhabitants [2 Peter 2:8], and while Abraham was honoured, he was despised, opposed and persecuted for his profession’s sake. At last he saw the place he had chosen destroyed with fire from heaven [Genesis 19:24] and he was glad to escape for his life, leaving all his substance behind him.
FOR MEDITATION:
How hurtful was the choice of Lot,
Yet still he seemed resolved to stay
Who took up his abode
As if it were his rest;
(Because it was a fruitful spot)
Although their sins from day to day
With them who feared not GOD!
His righteous soul distressed.
A prisoner he was quickly made,
Awhile he stayed with anxious mind,
Bereaved of all his store;
Exposed to scorn and strife;
And, but for Abraham’s timely aid,
At last he left his all behind,
He had returned no more.
And fled to save his life.
SERMON SERIES: GENESIS, NO. 25 [3/4], GENESIS 13:12–13
Milo 