FEB 24
Genesis 19:1-14
Memorise Luke 17:28-29
“Up, get you out of this place; for the LORD will destroy this city.”

Together with the last few chapters of the book of Judges, this narrative is perhaps one of the most difficult to read and hard to stomach passages of the Bible. What we see portrayed here is really the depths of depravity that man can sink into. We see the utter wickedness and extreme immorality of the people of Sodom, just before God would destroy them with fire and brimstone. Did they deserve such a judgment? Let us read on.

As the angels went down into Sodom, it was very quickly confirmed that the city was indeed sinful, and there were less than 10 righteous people within it that were required to spare the city. As they entered into the city, they met Lot, who was sitting at the gate. Knowing the wickedness of the city, Lot quickly invited them into his house and offered to host them for the night. What happened next was something almost unbelievable and unimaginable. The men of the city, both old and young, heard of the arrival of these two strangers, and so they gathered round Lot’s house, calling for him to bring forth the men that they may “know them” (Genesis 19:5). What they were asking for was not just an innocent ‘meet and greet session’. What they were really calling for was to ‘know’ them in the sexual sense. They were blatantly and shamelessly shouting out in the streets for a homosexual orgy! They were demanding for it as if it was their entitlement, and was probably something that they expected of every visitor to their city. However, what was even more saddening and disturbing was Lot’s response to them. Though he told them to “do not so wickedly”, yet he then offered his own two virgin daughters for them to “do ye to them as is good in your eyes” (Genesis 19:8). How could a father do such a thing to his daughters! To put them into the hands of this sex crazed violent crowd, and allow them to do what they wanted! Truly the sinful influence of this city had so calloused the heart of Lot, such that he would not realise the great wickedness of his offer to them. Indeed this is what will happen when one wilfully dwells in the midst of sin, and freely allows it to reign. There was absolutely no fear of God in this city, and they deserved judgment!

Today, we too are living in a society that is close becoming that of Sodom in the days of Lot. The Lord had warned us that when we see that happening around us, then know that the Lord’s return is soon!

Thought: Have we become numb and insensitive to the sin around us?

Prayer: Lord may I always be ready for the Lord’s soon coming return!