Sodom and Gomorrah lessons. Genesis 19 records God’s destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah somewhere around 2,000 BC for their sinful wickedness. Here are lessons for us today.
Sodom and Gomorrah lessons. God will judge human wickedness
I will go down to see whether they have done altogether according to the outcry that has come to me. (ESV, Genesis 18:21)
Sodom and Gomorrah were located in the Jordan valley described in Genesis 13:10 as “well watered everywhere like the garden of the Lord.” In other words, rich, fertile land great for farming. But the two cities had a reputation for sinful wickedness.
So God sent two angels as men to report on its moral condition. When the men entered the city, they met Lott who immediately offered the strangers hospitality for night. Although the men offered to sleep out in the city square, Lott insisted they stay in his home. His concern for their safety was well founded. That night, a mob of men from the city tried to break into Lott’s home to sexually assualt his guests. Therefore, the angels struck them with blindness and they groped around harmlessly, unable to find the door.
Sodom and Gomorrah lessons. God’s grace spares the righteous.
Will you indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? (ESV, Genesis 18:23)
Meanwhile, Abraham appealed to God on Sodom’s behalf. Why? Probably to save his nephew Lott along with his family.
“Wait, Lord,” he said. “If you find 50 righteous people in the city will you spare their lives?” God agreed, Still, Abraham persisted.
“What if there are 45, 40, or 10 righteous?” Again, God agreed.
Is God wishy washy? No. But Abraham’s boldness in bargaining illustrates an important point. God does not want to punish mankind.
The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. (ESV, 2 Peter 3:9)
However, because he is just, God cannot simply ignore sin. It carries a death penalty that must be paid. Fortunately, that’s exactly what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross.
Lott’s hospitality to the angels.
Hospitality was an important Jewish, cultural mandate. And Lott’s insistence and attempt to protect the angels demonstrated his righteousness as a Jewish man of faith. However, righteousness before God is not based on godly actions themselves, but the motivation of the heart. In other words, a heart that seeks to please God and obey his commands. It is this same desire that represents righteousness today. Not the perfection of righteous actions, but a heart that is devoted to pursuing them.
In the morning, the angels urged Lott and his family to leave the city because God was going to destroy it. But the family resisted. Of course, this is understandable from a human perspective. To suddenly learn their guests were angels about to destroy the city was shocking information. When Lott informed his daughter’s fiances, they thought he was joking and refused to leave with them.
Finally, the angels grabbed Lott, his wife, and two daughters by the hands and led them out of the city.
Sodom and Gomorrah lessons. Take God’s warning seriously.
God’s word is full of warnings, advice, and wise counsel. And to ignore, disregard or grow complacent regarding them invites consequences. Although much of God’s word requires thoughtul study, the message in this story is clear. When God declares he will do something, he does it. So take his warnings seriously and adjust accordingly.
The angels warned the family to not look back. But Lott’s wife couldn’t help herself. Just one more wistful look at the life she was leaving behind. A life of cherished memories. Of friends and neighbors. Was that too much to ask?
And she turned into a pillar of salt. Was that literal or perhaps some form of mummification by sulphur and volcanic ash? We don’t know. And while reminiscing on cherished memories has a rightful place, Christ-followers should exercise a faith that moves forward. Striving to follow, grow, and imitate our Lord.
For it is by God’s grace and the sacrifice of his Son, Jesus Christ that we are eternally saved.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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Finding soul rest. Life can feel like a rat race. Scurrying along with all of humanity for our slice of cheese. Hectic and frantic to arrive. Unsure where and why. Tired. Haggard. And out of breath. When will we ever find soul rest?
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (ESV, Matthew 11:28-30)
Finding soul rest. It’s presented as an invitation.
Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.
The Greek word for “labor” is kŏpiaō, which means to work hard, labor, toil, and feel fatigued. “Heavy laden” is the Greek phŏrtizō, which means to overburden with ceremony or spiritual anxiety. And “rest” is anapauō, which means to refresh, repose, and rest.
However, it’s not the busy schedule that causes the weariness rampant today. But something deeper and more profound. A spiritual anxiety that over burdens our hearts. And what’s missing is the love, joy, and holy presence of God. He is the calm that soothes the human heart. Without him life can be lonely, empty, and meaninglessness.
But there is an answer. A path forward. Jesus presents it as an invitation. Which is simply, himself. Because soul rest is not about what I can do, but what Jesus has done. He sacrificed himself for my sin. And by confessing my sin and seeking his forgiveness, he enters my life as Savior and Lord. As a result, the anxiety of earning God’s favor melts away. And the life giving presence of Jesus takes its place.
Finding soul rest. Jesus joins you in the harness.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart,
The Greek word for “yoke” is zugŏs, which means to join, a coupling, beam of the balance. During New Testament times, a yoke was placed over the necks of two oxens so they equally pulled a wagon or plow.
But Jesus used the term figuratively to mean servitude and obligation to the Jewish law. And he had harsh words for the religious leaders who insisted the Jewish people meticulously keep them all. It was an impossible burden to bear. Although modern culture today has moved away from that law, most still believe in God and moral right and wrong. But there’s uncertainty in the right combination. What is the appropriate level of goodness to meet God’s standard? The uncertainty creates another burden. How do you pass the test to enter heaven?
But Jesus offers reassurance. Join with him and the load will be light.
“Gentle” is the Greek word praüs, which means humble, meek, and mild. And “lowly” is tapĕinŏs, which means depressed, humiliated in circumstances or disposition, cast down, of low estate. Jesus wants to be our Lord. But he is gentle and humble. He desires to walk with us. Instruct us. And ease our burden.
Finding soul rest. Responding to Jesus.
And you will find rest for your souls.
The Greek word for “souls” is psuchē, which means breath, immortal soul, heart, life, and mind. In other words, the soul is our unique, human composition made by God. Our personality, emotions, desires, perceptions, and ability to think and reason. And according to scripture, the soul lives eternally in either heaven or hell.
And the most important part of soul rest.
Take for example, the scene on the cross as Jesus was crucified between two thieves. One ridiculed him, the other took responsibility for his own misdeeds. And he appealed to Jesus for forgiveness. Jesus responded by saying, “today you will be with me in paradise.”
At the most critical point in his life he simply and completely turned to Jesus. And found his soul rest. We can too.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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Why God allows pain. It’s not because he likes to see us hurt. But to remind us it’s a consequence of sin. To help us grow in character. And show us the way to a better life.
Why God allows pain. To remind us it’s a consequence of sin.
I will surely multiply your pain in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children. (ESV, Genesis 3:16)
Cursed is the ground because of you; in pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life; thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you; and you shall eat the plants of the field. (ESV, Genesis 3:17)
Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden. The first sinful act of humanity. And since then, it has multiplied into many forms of evil. Today, the depth and breadth of sin is extraordinary and the pain it causes often unbearable. Not just physically, but emotionally, pschologically, and spiritually.
After Adam and Eve confessed to eating the fruit, God told them it would change everything in the world. And it did. Today, it’s clear the world and all people in it are broken. Especially in our relationship with God. Sin caused it. And pain is a result. Although God offers a solution.
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (ESV, Romans 5:8)
By accepting Jesus as Lord and savior our relationship with God is restored. We won’t escape pain on earth. But that too will end.
Why God allows pain. He uses it to grow our character
Though the Lord give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide himself anymore, but your eyes shall see your teacher. And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. (ESV, Isaiah 30:20-21)
Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. (ESV, Romans 5:3-5)
Sin is too pervasive to completely escape pain on earth. But we can lessen it by following Jesus and obeying God’s word. Jesus does not over burden us and the Bible is not a rule book that eliminates all our fun. But an instruction manual for our benefit that shows us how to live purpose filled lives in healthy relationship with God and others.
God also uses pain to grow our character. Learn patience. And remind us we are not self-sufficient. Because pain encourages us to lean on God’s strength. See His care for us and the world with greater clarity. And gain new perspectives on life.
Furthermore, physical pain is a form of self-protection. A safety warning to avoid serious injury and even death. But perhaps we should consider life without pain. Would we recognize the extent of our sinful condition and brokeness without it? Or maybe settle for “this is as good as it gets” and simply accept it?
Why God allows pain. He uses it to show us a better life
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (ESV, Romans 8:28)
Pain makes us seek relief. And look to God for a better life. Because when you’re collapsed at the bottom of the pit of pain, the only direction to look is up.
It also reminds us that very little in life is actually in our control. We are vulnerable and dependent on God’s grace. But He generously extends it to those who seek Him and ask for it. And it’s in the times of our greatest weakness that God reveals His strength. Showers us with mercy. And demonstrates His love.
Of course, we don’t look for pain. Or welcome it. But by exercising our faith and leaning of God, we spiritually benefit from it. And there is a hope that fuels our perseverance through it. For those who place their faith and trust in Jesus, there is a final release from pain. Along with an everlasting life in heaven.
He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. (ESV, Revelation 21:4)
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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Why is there good and evil? It’s an age old question. And the Bible answers it. Here are some thoughts on what it says.
Why is there good and evil? It starts with a choice
The book of Gensis records that God created Adam and Eve and placed them in a lush, Garden of Eden. A paradise that provided all they needed. But with one caveat. There was a tree in the middle of the garden that was off limits. Why?
Because God gave Adam and Eve free will, which requires a choice. And that’s what the tree represented. Obey God and leave the tree alone. Disobey God and eat from the tree. God could have prevented evil by simply removing the tree from the garden. Obedience is the only choice. Everyone is happy and agreeable because that’s all anyone knows. Kinda like the Stepford wives. Boring maybe, but we wouldn’t know that either.
Instead, God lets us choose our own actions.
Why is there good and evil? Evil results from the presence of sin in the human heart
Evil is not a separate entity. A cosmic force of evil consciousness that sweeps across the human landscape like the Borg and assimilates us into its collective. Evil is the result of humans making wrong choices. Specifically, decisions that disobey God. Like the choice to eat forbidden fruit.
That one act of disobedience let sin enter the world. And since then, sin has infected every human heart and mutated into the most heinous acts of evil with devasting consequences. It is firmly rooted and resident in every human heart. And remains, at its core, the choice to disobey God.
Of course, Adam and Eve didn’t act completely on their own. Satan, disguised as a serpent, slithered into the picture and tempted Eve with the fruit’s delicious appeal. But Adam and Eve were still personally responsible for their decision. And the same is true today. To defeat evil we must each take personal responsibility for our sin. Confess it and ask forgiveness from God. Then our sinful heart becomes a redeemed heart that God transforms into a new creation.
How do you explain good?
God is good and God is love. He is full of compassion, mercy, and grace. And we are all created in His imgage. Therefore, we all posess an inherent, moral sense of right and wrong. And we all can experience and express love, compassion, mercy, and grace in our relationships with others.
So while sin is present in the human heart and makes us capable of unspeakable evil, it doesn’t preclude the capacity for good. For us to consider the needs of others and help our fellow man. However, there is a constant tug of war between what we know is right and the evil desires in our hearts. Even the Apostle Paul shared about this battle in his heart.
So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand. For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin. (ESV, Romans 7:21-25)
So how do you explain why some people are consumed by evil while others focus on good? It’s like a dog fight. The winner is the one you feed.
The final solution to evil is Jesus Christ
God demonstrated the ultimate act of love by sending his Son, Jesus Christ to sacrifice his life for our sins. He lived a sin free life. Died as a perfect sacrifice and rose from the dead three days later. By confessing our sins to him, accepting his forgiveness, and following him as Savior and Lord, our sins are forgiven and we’re set free from the power of sin.
Evil exists because of sin. And sin is a choice to disobey God. However, we can achieve victory over sin through Jesus Christ. And that brings us back to where we started. With a choice. To follow Jesus…or not.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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The power of God’s precepts is found in Psalms 119:129-136. These teachings guide the moral behavior of God’s people based on the truth of His word. Here are three ways they empower believers.
The Power of God’s precepts. They guide us on a lighted path.
The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. (ESV, Psalm 119:30)
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (ESV, Psalm 119:105)
Our culture today celebrates individual, moral freedom. Behavior once considered wrong is now celebrated. And the laws that restrained it repealed. Supporters promised more individual autonomy. Higher enlightenment. Increased personal rights. And ultimately, greater individual happiness. But is this the case?
Because the opposite appears to be true. There’s greater moral confusion than ever before. Increased loneliness. Unhappiness. Darkness. And anger. So much anger everywhere you look.
In contrast, God’s word is a light. It illuminates the path of those who follow it. Increases your understanding of moral right and wrong. And guides your steps of faith in a world of increasing darkness. On the way, you discover that God’s precepts guide you towards a life of righteousness that honors God.
The Power of God’s precepts. They guard us from oppression
Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me. (ESV, Psalm 119:133)
Critics often claim that God’s law is burdensome with its legalistic following of rules. But the writer here claims the opposite. God’s precepts act as guard rails to protect him from the lure and addictive power of immoral behavior.
The Hebrew word for “Iniquity” is a-wen and means evil behavior. The Hebrew word for “dominion” is shalat and means to have power or to rule over. And this is the reality when human passions and lust are unleashed with no inhibitions or restrictions. The behavior often becomes addictive. And the immoral freedoms you celebrate and indulge in with reckless abandon become your master.
Meanwhile, God’s precepts take you on a journey of purpose, meaning, and joy. They guide you in a life that’s meant for you. And grow you into the person He intends you to be.
The Power of God’s precepts. God’s word sets you free
Redeem me from man’s oppression, that I may keep your precepts. (ESV, Psalm 119:134)
If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. (ESV, John 8:31-32)
The Hebrew word for “oppression” is osheq and means deceitfully gotten or unjust gain. In other words, God’s precepts guide you in walking with personal integrity. Another challenge when navigating a world full of scams and unscrupulous behavior.
Despite that, we’re called to demonstrate honest and ethical behavior. Even when it’s a disadvantage next to unethical competition. Because God’s word is truth that sets you free. Freedom of conscience. And the stress in covering one lie with another. Furthermore, the honest reputation you earn over time becomes a rich and satisfying reward.
Studying and following God’s precepts consistently is like a slow drip. A steady jog. Because as you absorb God’s truth and practice it, subtle, but profound changes occur in your life. In how you think, act, and react. Sure, life still throws curveballs that you swing at and miss. But you’ll feel more settled. And with a confidence that God’s precepts are an important key to a meaningful life.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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