Flee Wickedness or Be Destroyed! By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: “Then the Lord rained down burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the Lord out of the heavens. Thus he overthrew those cities and the entire plain, destroying all those living in the cities—and also the vegetation in the land. But Lot’s wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.” (Genesis 19:24-26, NIV)
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Introduction
The call of God is one of obedience and separation. Throughout scripture, God has shown His desire to separate His people from wickedness and to bring them into righteousness. The story of Sodom and Gomorrah stands as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the blessings of heeding His commands. Lot and his family were called out of destruction, yet obedience was required for their salvation. Today, the message remains the same: flee wickedness, or face the destruction that comes upon the ungodly. This lesson will explore God’s call to obedience and the consequences of disobedience, using His Word as our foundation.
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God Calls Us Out of Wickedness
God’s call to leave wickedness is clear and uncompromising. He did not spare Sodom and Gomorrah, yet He provided a way for Lot and his family to escape. This demonstrates His mercy and justice.
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?" (2 Corinthians 6:14, NIV)
The Lord’s desire is to bring His people into safety and righteousness, but that requires obedience. Staying in the places of wickedness is a rejection of His mercy and leads to destruction.
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Obedience is Non-Negotiable
Lot’s obedience to God’s command to leave Sodom saved him and his daughters, but hesitation or attachment to worldly things could have led to their destruction. When God calls, immediate and complete obedience is required.
"If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land; but if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken." (Isaiah 1:19-20, NIV)
God’s commands are not suggestions. Delayed or partial obedience is disobedience and places us in danger of judgment.
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The Consequences of Disobedience
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah illustrates the fate of those who remain in wickedness. Lot’s wife, despite being called out, disobeyed and looked back. Her disobedience led to her demise. This serves as a warning for all who refuse to heed God’s call.
"The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23, NIV)
Remaining in sin and rebellion brings devastation, despair, and separation from God. The choice to obey or disobey is one of life or death.
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Our Identity is in God, Not in the World
Believers are called to find their identity in Christ, not in worldly attachments or associations. Lot’s deliverance was tied to his willingness to sever ties with a corrupt city and trust God’s guidance.
"For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God." (Colossians 3:3, NIV)
When we cling to worldly comforts, we risk losing sight of God’s purpose for our lives. True security is found in obedience to Him, not in the fleeting stability of earthly things.
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God’s Mercy in Judgment
Even as God’s judgment fell upon Sodom and Gomorrah, His mercy was extended to Lot and his family. This demonstrates that God is both just and merciful. However, His mercy is not to be taken for granted.
"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9, NIV)
God’s patience and mercy provide an opportunity for repentance, but the time to respond is now.
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Summary
The story of Sodom and Gomorrah is a powerful reminder of God’s call to obedience and the consequences of wickedness. Lot’s obedience saved him, while the destruction of the cities and Lot’s wife’s demise highlight the dangers of disobedience. God’s mercy is abundant, but it requires a response. We must choose to obey Him fully and separate ourselves from the corruption of the world.
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Conclusion
God’s call to flee wickedness is a call to life, hope, and righteousness. Remaining in sin leads to destruction, but obedience brings protection and blessings. The choice is clear: follow God or face the judgment that comes upon the wicked. Just as Lot’s obedience brought him out of destruction, our willingness to trust and obey God will lead us into His abundant life.
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Call to Action
Today, examine your life and ask yourself if there are areas where you are still clinging to wickedness or disobedience. Seek God’s guidance and strength to separate yourself from anything that hinders your relationship with Him. Make a commitment to obey His call without hesitation.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Be encouraged to know that God’s mercy is available to all who turn to Him in obedience. Trust in His guidance and walk in His ways, for He is faithful to protect and provide for those who are His. Remember, your identity is in Him, and He will lead you into life and righteousness if you remain steadfast in your faith and obedience.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV)
