8 OCTOBER
The Lord takes notice
‘And the LORD said, Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous; I will go down now and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.’ Genesis 18:20–21
SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: Numbers 12:1–15
The Lord takes notice of these things. He comes down to see. He has a book of remembrance for his people—so likewise for sinners. There is an awful account kept against them. And he makes his coming down known: to some in a way of providence, visiting them with such rebukes as they may read their sin in their punishment; to some by the power of his convincing Spirit, impressing them with fears which they cannot always shake off, which seize them not only under hearing, but perhaps in the midst of their frantic mirth, or however, find them out when they are by themselves and make them feel that he is angry with them. But let it be remembered that the Lord once came down upon the account of sin, not to destroy, but to save. Let us not speak wholly of the cry of sin, but attend likewise to the cry of the Saviour’s blood. We are not yet in the case of Sodom—there is a respite, there is forgiveness. Sin has abounded, but grace much more abounds [Romans 5:20]. A free salvation is published. Believe—and though your sins have been as scarlet they shall be white as snow [Isaiah 1:18].
FOR MEDITATION: Some of you are like Abraham. The Lord reveals to you how he will deal with impenitent sinners, but you have fled to Jesus and are accepted. It is your part to intercede like Abraham for others—to mourn for sin and to stand in the breach while there is yet hope.
To others like Lot, the Lord has sent a gracious warning. O be thankful, and make good use of the mercy; flee to the hope set before you; have no more fellowship with the wicked—whether they will hear or forbear, do you be mindful of yourselves. And then fear not—he has not called you to disappoint the hopes he has raised in you.
SERMON SERIES: GENESIS, NO. 39 [3/3], GENESIS 18:20–21
Milo 