Lot’s Life in Sodom - Genesis 19:1-38

This week we’ll consider the story of Abraham’s nephew, Lot, amidst God’s judgment of Sodom and Gomorrah. We learned in 13:10 that Lot was drawn to Sodom for its luxury and sophistication. He moved to the city to advance his career and status. However, we were warned that Sodom was a place of injustice and immorality.

By the time we reach chapter 19, we see the Lot has achieved what he sought. He sits in the city gate which means he’s ascended to prominence in the town. Yet, it’s clear that he has no restraining influence on its culture. When the mob surrounds his house, the townspeople don’t respect him.

We see in Lot traits of morality and kindness. Lot invites strangers into his home. He’s concerned about their welfare and safety. He’s concerned to uphold moral convention by protecting those who come under his roof. Yet, he has assimilated to the ethics of Sodom. He callously exposes his daughters to the violence of the mob. He’s reluctant to depart when judgment is impending. He doesn’t believe God can protect Him and so he flees to Zoar.

Lot is a classic example of a ‘good guy’ who doesn’t put God first in his life. Status, comfort, success are primary; God is secondary. When pressed by events, Lot is swept aside. Only Abraham’s intercession for him secures his safety.

Lot is contrasted with other Biblical characters like Abraham, Daniel, or Esther who also lived in unjust and immoral cultures. However, they put God first. When the moment of trial came, they were used by God to restrain iniquity and to impact their culture for God’s glory.