The Judgment of God on Sodom and Gomorrah
Sodom and Gomorrah: A Difficult Truth for Modern Times
Have you ever found yourself judging others, only to realize you’re not so different? As I stood in the airport, silently criticizing a family running late for their flight, I was reminded of how easy it is to become judgmental. This experience set the stage for a challenging sermon on a topic many would rather avoid – God’s judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah.
The Relevance of an Ancient Story
As we continue our journey through Genesis, we arrive at chapter 19 – a passage that serves as a dividing line among Christians and churches. Will we preach what the Bible says, or will we change God’s Word to align with popular opinion?
Recent studies show a record high 72% of people believe homosexuality should be accepted, while only 21% disagree. But as followers of Christ, we must look beyond societal trends and ask, “What does God’s Word say?”
God’s Presence in a Difficult Text
Before diving into the details, let’s remember where God is in this challenging passage:
- God hears the prayers of those concerned for the lost.
- God warns of judgment to come.
- God sends messengers to rescue the confused.
- God desires to rescue the lost.
- God is willing to forgive and save.
As we explore Genesis 19, let’s keep these truths in mind and approach the text with a Christ-like attitude.
The Lord Warns of Judgment to Come
In verses 1-3, we see the two angels arrive in Sodom, where Lot insists they stay at his house rather than in the town square. This sets the stage for what follows.
The Ungodly Love Their Sin
Verses 4-5 reveal the depth of Sodom’s depravity: “But before they lay down, the men of the city, the men of Sodom, both young and old, all the people to the last man, surrounded the house. And they called to Lot, ‘Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us, that we may know them.'”
The sin of Sodom was both prevalent and perverse. Today, our society often tries to normalize, promote, and celebrate similar behaviors. But as Christians, we must stand firm on God’s Word.
Addressing Common Arguments
Some try to explain away the sin of Sodom as merely a lack of hospitality or gang rape. However, the context and language used in the passage clearly indicate sexual immorality. Jude 1:7 confirms this: “Just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.”
The Lord Brings Judgment on Sin
While God warns of judgment, He also provides a way of escape for those who will listen.
Some Are Spared from Judgment
In verses 15-16, we see God’s mercy in action: “As morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, ‘Up! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, lest you be swept away in the punishment of the city.’ But he lingered. So the men seized him and his wife and his two daughters by the hand, the Lord being merciful to him, and they brought him out and set him outside the city.”
God’s compassion leads to deliverance, even when we hesitate to leave our sinful surroundings.
God is Thorough in His Judgment
Verses 23-26 describe the complete destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. This serves as a sobering reminder that no one can escape God’s judgment when it comes.
The Lord is Not Surprised by Our Sin
The chapter concludes with a shocking account of Lot’s daughters’ sin. This reminds us that:
- Wrong thinking leads to sin
- Drunkenness leads to sin
- Consequences come from our sin
Life Application: Four Truths to Remember
- Don’t walk away from the truth. Jesus warned that it would be more tolerable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for those who reject Him despite having more knowledge (Matthew 11:23-24).
- Don’t live for this world. Remember Lot’s wife, who looked back longingly at Sodom (Luke 17:32-33).
- Don’t think there’s no hope for you or anyone else. 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 reminds us that people can change through the power of the Gospel.
- Don’t let your eternal destiny be in doubt. Be saved today. We may be surprised by who is in heaven – and who isn’t (Matthew 7:21-23).
As we reflect on this difficult passage, let’s examine our own hearts. Are we judgmental towards sinners? Do we have a heart for the lost and hurting? Let’s pray for those who need the Lord and consider who we can invite to church to hear the good news of Jesus Christ.
Remember, Jesus is the friend of sinners, and He is able to save all who come to Him in repentance and faith.
The Successful Man Who Failed Miserably
Doing God’s Will
Rooted in Ruin
The Grace Of God
Patterns For Growth
What’s Your Focus
We hope you enjoyed the sermon and would love to see you in person. Plan your visit to Community Baptist Church in Spring Hill, Tennessee today!