D22 Discovering End-time Signs in Story of Lot

This Biblical Story of Lot saved by angels from the destruction of Sodom provides God’s instruction for the impending destruction of the world by not repeating the mistakes of Lot in order to be able to get out of the destruction and live in God’s kingdom of glory according to His provision

22 The Invitation

This is another radical invitation to discover signs of the end of the world. It is like telling you “The world (or Singapore) is going to be destroyed tomorrow.” I will be laughed at and ignored, naturally. I am willing to be ridiculed and laughed at in order to catch your attention to heed a simple biblical story to offer you hope in a world that is going out of control.

The current events in the world are very alarming like the global warming that scientists are attributing for the increasing naturals disasters. The leaders of the world are independently clueless and have aligned together as the UN and acknowledging the pope as their supreme moral leader to solve this climate change problem. The Pope’s remedy is to return to the Bible which is correct but only if the truth is not corrupted by man’s tradition in changing the word of God. The clue is therefore to search the Bible itself (not to listen to man without checking the Bible for confirmation) to discover the signs of the end of our world. (See explanation in note of God’s Judgment in par 22.1.1.1) But to be told the world (or Singapore City) is to be destroyed tomorrow and to get out immediately before it is too late is no use if we do not know or have the means to get out to a safer place. This D22 Discovery of the Story (Legacy) of Lot serves to show us the signs to warn us and giving us instruction not to repeat the mistakes of Lot in order to be able to get out of the destruction and live.

This warning message is especially meant for all sinners from our loving God who is “..not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”-2 Pe3:9. Jesus main mission to earth is to reveal the love of God and to call all sinners to repentance and be reconciled with God (Mat 9:13; Mk 2:17; Luk 5:32; 1 Tim 1:15; Rom 5:10) (See par 22.2.3 God’s Grace, Mercy and Justice)

The biblical story of Lot is narrated in Genesis 19:1-38 and 6 verses in Chap 13 as background insight (no more than 6-7 minutes of reading, a respite from I-phone) As this knowledge is so important for the saving of your soul (the preservation of the “breath of life” from God who “formed man of the dust of the ground”- Gen 2:7)  

For those who have lost the habit of reading*, you can just watch and listen to the sermon by Pr. Roger Oconner on Youtube. The preferred mode is to listen and at the same time read the compiled notes that also provide comments to enhance your understanding.

(Note: No time for reading* is one of  Satan’s lure  covered in, D17 Social Media Enchantment, at http://www.discoverylifediy.com/439789834 )

Contents

22.1 Destruction of Sodom and Lot’s Family Rescue; 22.1.1 Why Sodom was Destroyed; 22.1.1.1 The Rightful Execution of Judgment; 22.1.2 The Bible Narrative; 22.1.2.1 Contention and Separation over Material Possession; 22.1.2.2 The Unbelief, Hesitation, and Bargain; 22.1.2.3 God Destroys Sodom; 22.1.2.3.1 The Consequence of Lot’s Hesitation- Pillar of Salt; 22.2 Your Impression and View about God; 22.2.1 The Studied Perspectives; 22.2.2 The Legacy of Lot; 22.2.3 God’s Grace, Mercy and Justice; 22.2.3.1 City of Nineveh Repentance; 22.2.3.2 Reformed Gay Testimony;22.3 The Rest of Lot’s Misery; 22.4 Personal Discovery and a Challenge; Chap. 14 - Destruction of Sodom (Extracts); 22.4.1 Sodomy on the Last Night; 22.4.2 Angels Took Lot’s Family Out; 22.4.3 Hesitation and its Consequences; 22.4.4 Pillar of Salt - Monument of God’s Judgment; 22.4.5 Divine Destruction is Sudden; 22.4.6 Signs of the Day of the Lord Today; 22.4.6 Lot Moved to the Mountains; 22.4.7.1 The Lesson for Parents; 22.4.8 God’s Promises will be Fulfilled; 22.4.8.1 The Finale of the Great Controversy- the Good News; 22.4.8.1.1 Destiny of Satan; 22.4.8.1.2 In the Kingdom of God; 22.5 Share the Message.  

22.1 Destruction of Sodom* and Lot’s Family Rescue

BRSDA 20190720 20 July 2019 "Don't Look Back" by Pastor Roger Oconnor. Published on Jul 21, 2019 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGcrWoJvPFA (51:34)

This story in the Bible was impressed on Pr Roger for the Sabbath sermon, July 20, 2019 for the Balestier Road SDA as a visitor. He began saying that if this story does not make you feel anything, then the sermon was lousy. He hoped that as we study the word together that you may feel the presence of the Holy Spirit among us. (It is very rare to hear God’s messages in sermons nowadays that provokes further studying and sharing in lifting Christ up to draw all men  to Him, the Saviour of the world (based on this key passage in Jn 12:28-33- Jesus  explaining to the Greeks in the outer court on hearing the voice from heaven: “ Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again. “The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: others said, An angel spake to him. “ Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes. “Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world ( Satan) be cast out. “ And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. “This he said, signifying what death he should die.”(crucifixion and resurrection after three days to return to heaven) –Jn 12:28-33.)) 

(Note: This topic was covered earlier pertaining to the archaeological finding of the cities of Sodom* and Gomorrah in D13 Discovering Sodom and Gomorrah, Par 4.5.3 End-time Significance of Sodom and Gomorrah to par 4.5.3.2.3.2.2 Our Inheritance is an Eternal City  at http://www.discoverylifediy.com/page:1EB62280-919F-4FA3-8AD5-B5BCEB0A888A"http://www.wakeupow.com/152909638" style="padding: 0px; text-align: left; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Roboto; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: underline solid rgb(0, 0, 0); text-shadow: none; text-transform: none; direction: ltr;" class="textnormal">http://www.wakeupow.com/152909638)

22.1.1 Why Sodom was Destroyed  

There are many stories in the Book of Genesis( first book) that points to the Book of Revelation(last book) that talks mainly about end-time, the last days of this earth. One of this story is the passage in Gen 19 that has similarities with our days. The destruction of the City of Sodom describes the scenario of how this world is going to be destroyed at some future point if the condition matches with that of Sodom. The City of Sodom and Gomorrah was destroyed, “into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an enample unto those that after should live ungodly;” -2Pe 2:6. Should we earnestly assess and be able to see the similarities of the condition of the world today then we can relate to this story. This story then is very important to be heeded and to let this story be a lesson for our deliverance that God has provided in the Bible. (See FoC12 “Tales of Unbelief” (in the  world under deception) Abstract at http://www.wakeupow.com/159912051)

It was the wickedness of the people of Sodom, a great city, that caused God to destroy it. When Abraham, a man of faith (called by God to “become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the nations shall be blessed in him” –Gen 18:18). was told of the impending destruction, he interceded for the people of Sodom where Lot decided to live after he separated from him. Abraham, knowing that God is merciful and compassionate began bargaining for the city not to be destroyed, starting with, if there were 50 righteous people. When God agreed on 50, he felt that he had found favour with God. Then appealing to God as the righteous judge, not to slay the righteous with the wicked then press from 45 to 40, 30, 20 and finally settled for 10 righteous people in the city, for God not to destroy it at that juncture ( Gen 18:17-33). But the City was not saved as 10 honest people were not found. (This is reminiscent of the great flood which destroyed the ungodly Antediluvian age except for Noah and this family of eight (2 Pet 2:5).

22.1.1.1 The Rightful Execution of Judgment*

The intercession by Abraham is part of the process of judgment which every nation and its citizen cannot do without.  The Book of Revelation tells us that there is a judgment going on right now with Jesus Christ interceding for anyone who accepts Him as the Creator and the Saviour of the world. By faith we believe that He is claiming our salvation through His blood. So if there was a judgment* before the destruction of Sodom and there is a judgment going on before the world is destroyed (according to the word of God) then this is one of the similarities.

(Note: God’s Judgment*- God established two institutions and one command in the Creation Week.Sodomy is breaking the first institution of marriage (Gen 2:18, 21-24; Mat 19:3-9) which results in defying God’s covenant with Abraham ( Gen 12:1-3) and the inevitable decimation and eventual termination of the human race. The Sabbath day of rest, the second institution has also been rejected by the papacy who changed the day of rest to Sunday by decree of Constantine in 321 AD . So both the Institution of God’s government have been broken that started with the unbelief in the word of God by Adam and Eve, by eating from the one tree, the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, the test set for the one command to keep God’s law (the law of love, the perfect law of liberty; "For whosoever shall keep the whole law (in letters, but not in spirit), and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all."-Ja 2:10)

As descendants we have a fallen nature with the propensity to sin and the wages of sin is death. “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”- 1Jn 1:8.  The papacy claim of infallibility, the authority to change law, and to elevate the mother of Jesus to be a divine being is extra-Biblical The claims were the inventions of mortal men (early Church Fathers) and perpetuated as unquestionable traditions, that is above the Word of God, to this day.

Satan deceived Eve with spiritualism and enchantment, his principal arsenal to his very end . He told Eve she cannot die as she was an immortal being and God for selfish reason did not want her to eat the fruit that would make her wise like God ( Gen 3:1-13)  (In brief (as more will be discussed in a later article), Satan possesses miracle-working power through spiritualism that he can bestow on his followers. Satan can grant  fame, riches and magical power to anyone for the exchange of their souls (e.g. famous Hollywood personalities) Therefore be very careful to seek after magical power.)

22.1.2 The Bible Narrative

Sodom was destroyed by God because it was incorrigibly sinful. Let the verses in the story tell us the condition of sinfulness of the people of Sodom.

Gen 19:1  And there came two angels to Sodom at even; and Lot sat in the gate of Sodom: and Lot seeing them rose up to meet them; and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground; Gen 19:2  And he said, Behold now, my lords, turn in, I pray you, into your servant's house, and tarry all night, and wash your feet, and ye shall rise up early, and go on your ways. And they said, Nay; but we will abide in the street all night.  Gen 19:3  And he pressed upon them greatly; and they turned in unto him, and entered into his house; and he made them a feast, and did bake unleavened bread, and they did eat. (The two angels, as a test on the safety of the street at night for stranger, said they will stay the night in the street. But Lot persuaded them that they must stay at his house as the street was not safe for strangers.)

Gen 19:4  But before they lay down, the men of the city, even the men of Sodom, compassed the house round, both old and young, all the people from every quarter: Gen 19:5  And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where are the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them ( “know” in Hebrews is about having sexual intercourse).(The men, both old and young  wanted to forcibly have sex with the two messengers of God that Lot received in his house.

Is our world close to that state with regard to the LGBT movement and since 2015 legalised by many nations, - men sleeping with men, women sleeping with women and children being raped, coupled with prostitution, mass violence and terrorism? Are we not far from the situation at Sodom?

(Consider the situation in the city of Singapore itself as reported in Yahoo news Saturday 29 June, 2019 at https://sg.news.yahoo.com/thousands-attend-pink-dot-11-at-hong-lim-park-form-giant-repeal-377-a-message-for-lightup-050134646.html -

SINGAPORE — Despite a wet start, thousands of Singaporeans and permanent residents turned up at Hong Lim Park on Saturday (29 June) afternoon to celebrate Pink Dot 2019.

Now in its 11th edition, this year’s event was themed around a call to end discrimination against the nation’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community.

..the event culminated in a light-up, which saw participants form a giant “Repeal 377A” message. This was a reference to Section 377A of Singapore’s Penal Code, which criminalises sex between men. (backed by 118 Singaporean sponsors).

Among the attendees this year were Lee Hsien Yang, the former chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore and brother of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong; his wife, lawyer Lee Suet Fern; their newly married son Li Huanwu and his husband Heng Yirui (married in South Africa.)

Commenting on the progress of gay rights in other parts of the world, Pink Dot SG spokesman Clement Tan said, “We’ve seen Taiwan, India, Bhutan, Botswana, Ecuador – countries where the governments have taken steps towards freedom and equality for all their citizens – all in one year.”

“As young Singaporeans who are contributing to our nation, we ask ourselves if Singapore is the place where we want to really lay down our roots, build careers, and start our families. It's ridiculous that Singapore is left behind time and time again,” he added.)

(Another report concerning the LGBT movement is in D13, par 4.5.2 The LGBT Influence; 4.5.2.1 The Rainbow Flag Gay Movement; 4.5.2.2 The Root Cause- Tavistock; 4.5.2.3 Pedophile Criminal Case in NZ4.5.2.4 Reformed Gay Testimony; 4.5.2.5 The Modern Day Sodom; 4.5.2.5.1 Promotion of Equality to LGBT by US Government; 4.5.2.5.1.1 Testimony of Deposed Moldavian Deputy Prime Minister; 4.5.2.5.1.2 Wiki Leaks, Dec 6, 2011; 4.5.2.5.1.2.1 Torture of Protesters in Tbilisi, Ukraine; 4.5.2.5.1.2.2 The Strategy; 4.5.2.5.2 Deadly Incurable Disease- Grid; 4.5.2.5.3 Rewrite Bible Removing “Clobber” Texts at http://www.discoverylifediy.com/436833440)

This striking similarity makes the message in Genesis to be relevant for us today. In order to understand the story and the message we must dig deep into the study of the word of God.  The Bible is not preserved for over 3,500 years and is the highest selling book just because it contains fables for casual entertaining reading. Both, the Old Testament (OT) and the New Testament (NT) will not tell you in a straight forward way what you must do and not do. The 39 books in the OT gives you lots of stories and from those stories you have to draw the moral of the principles of right living according to God law, God’s design protocol of creation and life. You have to draw the main point of the story and its meaning for living. (Check out Bible study on the Bible - Lesson One – “How to Understand the Bible.” (Search For Certainty Bible Study: SFC Intro & SFC1 at  http://www.discoverylifediy.com/440291557)

The OT provides case studies of the unfaithfulness of humans covering all aspects of their sinful acts for the purpose of pointing them to the hope of a savior, the Lamb of God, who will sacrifice himself to redeem us from death for all our sins. The NT is fulfillment of the promise of “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.”-Jn 1:29. Jesus rebuked the false teaching of men replacing His word with the traditions of men.  The key disciples, eyewitnesses of His crucifixion and resurrection, were inspired by the Holy Spirit to author the NT instructing us how to overcome sin by the principles prescribed therein. The Holy Spirit was given to all who accepted and “believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. ”For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”- Jn 3:15-17. The Holy Spirit that dwelled in us will teach us all truth and of things to come.

22.1.2.1 Contention and Separation over Material Possession

Lot and his family are the main characters of this story.  The background of Lot was that he was living with Abraham in his early years. Then they had a discussion over material possessions.  

Gen 13:1  And Abram went up out of Egypt, he, and his wife, and all that he had, and Lot with him, into the south. Gen 13:2  And Abram was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold. Gen 13:3  And he went on his journeys from the south even to Bethel, unto the place where his tent had been at the beginning, between Bethel and Hai; Gen 13:4  Unto the place of the altar, which he had made there at the first: and there Abram called on the name of the LORD. Gen 13:5  And Lot also, which went with Abram, had flocks, and herds, and tents. 

Gen 13:6  And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together: for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together. 

Gen 13:7  And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram's cattle and the herdmen of Lot's cattle: and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land. 

Gen 13:8  And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren. Gen 13:9  Is not the whole land before thee? separate thyself, I pray thee, from me: if thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if thou depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left. 

Gen 13:10  And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered every where, before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, even as the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar. ( Sodom  was like the Garden of Eden) Gen 13:11  Then Lot chose him all the plain of Jordan; and Lot journeyed east: and they separated themselves the one from the other. 

Gen 13:12  Abram dwelled in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelled in the cities of the plain, and pitched his tent toward Sodom. 

(He initially stayed near the City as he was attracted to the glamour of the city . But in the course of time he moved into the city. So when the mob forced into Lots house, the angels struck them blind and told Lot that they were going to destroy the city and he was to tell that to his family members.)   

22.1.2.2 The Unbelief, Hesitation, and Bargain

Gen 19:14  And Lot went out, and spake unto his sons in law, which married his daughters, and said, Up, get you out of this place; for the LORD will destroy this city. But he seemed as one that mocked unto his sons in law. (They laughed at him. Similarly, this is the same response when we try to tell someone (bus stop, MRT station, even your relatives and friends) that Jesus is coming soon and Singapore will be destroyed and there will be nothing left. They will laugh because they don’t believe that this could happen. Lot understood he had to leave but in the process of leaving he was hesitating and this is the climax of the story, the crux of the sermon message.)

Gen 19:15  And when the morning arose, then the angels hastened Lot, saying, Arise, take thy wife, and thy two daughters, which are here; lest thou be consumed in the iniquity of the city. Gen 19:16  And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him: and they brought him forth, and set him without the city. 

Gen 19:17  And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that he said, Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed. (In the last days of this earth, the Spirit of Prophecy has counseled us to move out of the city to live in the countryside where you can grow your own food (the original food in the Garden of Eden) and remove the children from the influence of the city lifestyle.)

Gen 19:18  And Lot said unto them, Oh, not so, my Lord: Gen 19:19  Behold now, thy servant hath found grace in thy sight, and thou hast magnified thy mercy, which thou hast shewed unto me in saving my life; and I cannot escape to the mountain, lest some evil take me, and I die: Gen 19:20  Behold now, this city is near to flee unto, and it is a little one: Oh, let me escape thither, (is it not a little one?) and my soul shall live. Gen 19:21  And he said unto him, See, I have accepted thee concerning this thing also, that I will not overthrow this city, for the which thou hast spoken. Gen 19:22  Haste thee, escape thither; for I cannot do any thing till thou be come thither. Therefore the name of the city was called Zoar. 

As spectators, we can discern  that the City is going to be destroyed in the execution of God’s judgment on the City of Sodom as there were no ten people found who were righteous in the judgment. Lot grew up as a man of faith in Abraham’s household, knew and believed that the destruction was imminent. But he was not ready wholeheartedly to move to the mountain where he might die by leaving the comfort of the city lifestyle he was now accustomed to. He pleaded to be given a chance to move to a smaller city and his wish was granted to live in the little city of Zoar. (God acceded to Lot’s request as there were adverse consequences in the outcome of his hesitation. God wants to teach us that every thought and action we do has a consequence that must be given time for it to be fully manifested. (This is the same reason why God did not annihilate Satan but gave him time to fully manifest the consequences of sin to be then destroyed, so that sin will never rise again in the new earth and the whole universe.)

22.1.2.3 God Destroys Sodom

Gen 19:23  The sun was risen upon the earth when Lot entered into Zoar. Gen 19:24  Then the LORD rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the LORD out of heaven; Gen 19:25  And he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground. 

Why did God destroy Sodom and all those similar wicked cities or ultimately the whole world? The madness in the world today has to stop when sin has fully manifested its consequence for the whole universe to see.  We are living in a crazy world and sin is reaching the top of God’s mercy. You may be living in a place that is save and you don’t have to worry about many things that are happening in the world.  You just have to watch the news to know that the world is getting crazier and crazier. And the leaders of the each nation in joining together under the UNO that appointed the Pope as the supreme moral leader are not able to prevent the rapid and accelerating rate of deterioration of the world. We are about to implement Sunday rest to save the world as advised by the Pope in 2015. If this does not work, the blame would be on those who still keep Sabbath as well. Then Sunday law will be enforced as a law, starting with America and then by the whole world. This is foretold in the book of Revelation ( Rev 13) when God will put an end to the Leaders masquerade of peace and safety when in actual fact enslaving humankind into sin and be destroyed together with Satan, who is the originator of sin in heaven.   

God destroyed the City ( symbolic of Mega Global Intelligent City ) because the city reached the top of His mercy. However, salvation was granted to those who desire to follow Him. Lot, like every one of us, wanted to be saved together with his wife and his children. But something happened, which they themselves are given the free choice to exercise: as we continue reading the story. 

22.1.2.3.1 The Consequence of Lot’s Hesitation- Pillar of Salt

Gen 19:26  But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt. Gen 19:27  And Abraham gat up early in the morning to the place where he stood before the LORD: Gen 19:28  And he looked toward Sodom and Gomorrah, and toward all the land of the plain, and beheld, and, lo, the smoke of the country went up as the smoke of a furnace. Gen 19:29  And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the plain, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when he overthrew the cities in the which Lot dwelt. 

Why did Lot’s wife looked back when the angel instructed them “don’t look back”? ( She held the same disbelief in God’s word as Adam and Eve who ate of the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil and were banished from the Garden of Eden.)

She came out of Sodom not in totality: physically  her body was out of Sodom, but Sodom did not come out of her (as were the case of the Israelites wandering in the wilderness who still lusted after the food of Egypt and all but two did not enter into the Canaan, the promise land.) She understood the angel said God was going to destroy Sodom, but in her heart Sodom had such an important place that she couldn’t bear the thought of leaving behind all the material things that she had. She couldn’t bear the thought of saying goodbye to all that comfort. She couldn’t bear the thought for a moment, her life as she knew it was about to end .

This was summed up by Mrs. White saying she hesitated and looked back because Lot hesitated. She looked back because Lot was trying to bargain with God  whether we can go to another city and continue life in all its comfort. ( So wives tell your husband do not make me look back (on what we have given up in living a new life having been born again into the new life with Christ), to lose heaven like Lot’s wife  because of you bargaining with God.) So she looked back and became a pillar of salt ( Gen 19:26).

In the eyes of many critical and prejudiced secular people of the world, they questioned in unbelief God’s act of destroying an entire city, saving just a few people He favoured, but then after that turning one of them into a pillar of salt.

22.2 Your Impression and View about God

At this juncture, in our discovering life journey, the view we hold of God (having read the main climax in the story of Lot and his family) will either make you love God more and desire to seek Him to know Him with all your heart and soul or reject Him as a tyrant waiting to destroy us at every opportunity  by believing in the lies of Satan. There is no neutral ground, you are either with God or else by default encamped with Satan, the devil, the Anti-Christ, the arch enemy.

22.2.1 The Studied Perspectives

If you are still undecided (exposing yourselves to the danger of default where you no longer have a say when Satan successfully tempts you into his camp) then let Pastor Roger provides his studied versions from a few perspectives on the main theme and message of the story.

The valley, where Lot’s wife was turned into a pillar of salt*, up to this day remains as a desert of salt. She was the anticipation of what Sodom would become after the burning by brimstone and fire ( the execution of judgment by God on the incorrigible wicked.)

(*Note: The Jewish historian Josephus claimed to have seen the pillar of salt*which was Lot's wife.[6] Its existence is also attested to by the early church fathers Clement of Rome and Irenaeus.[7]- Wikipedia)

The NT alluded to the purpose of salt in Jesus sermon on the Mount ( Beatitudes). He said: ““Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.”- Mat 5:13. (Salt is a preservative that also enhances the taste of the food being preserved. But if they lose their savour over time, they become useless and cast out as waste. The worldly people of Sodom by departing from God’s way will inevitably be  diehard “Sodomites” that spread their lasting influence on those like Lot’s wife.

Another verse that has a great bearing is  “And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly;”- 2 Pe 2:6) (Take heed! This desert is an example for all ages as evidence on God’s judgment on the cities of Sodom and the cities in the plain.) (The whole passage of this verse 2 Pe2:1-provides the summary of the dangerous and insidious works of false prophets and teachers.)

22.2.2 The Legacy of Lot

The two powerful messages (the central idea) from Lot’s story are:

1. Do Not Love the World

The decision made by Lot and the way he and his family would take at the separation of Lot from Abraham determines the consequences that make up the value of God’s message in this biblical story.  Lot initially encamped near Sodom but because he wanted to be rich was drawn closer and closer until he dwelled in the city and was found at the gate of the city when the two angels came to check if the city was indeed very wicked before destroying it. Lot has a lot of interest in material things. Lot’s decision to live in the city was because he wanted to be rich because of the opportunities being offered and the life of eating and drinking and marrying as in the days of Noah before the flood (Mat 24:37-39)   Is this not the trend of the world today? There are lots of Lot in the population of the world desirous of living in the cities. (Today, the most urbanized regions include Northern America (with 82% of its population living in urban areas in 2018), Latin America and the Caribbean (81%), Europe (74%) and Oceania (68%). The level of urbanization in Asia is now approximating 50%. In contrast, Africa remains mostly rural, with 43% of its population living in urban areas. The UN projected that 68% of the world population to live in urban areas by 2050 - (https://www.un.org/development/desa/en/news/population/2018-revision-of-world-urbanization-prospects.html) )

2. Hesitation is Unbelief with Devastating Impact

We can read Lot’s heart by his bargaining with the angels when told to hurry out and move to the mountain as the city was about to be destroyed. He did not obey immediately without question. He hesitated and asked God for a chance to move to a smaller city instead because of his love for material things the city could offer. Lot’s wife looked back because was hoping that Sodom was still standing and not destroyed. Lot and his wife were in love with what this world could offer to them and desire to luxuriate in the riches forever even though under the prince of this world, Satan, the usurper.

God’s word clearly tells us “Love not the world (all those things that you have), neither the things that are in the world (the standard of the the world, the comfort of the world). If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” (The reason that the Christian church are in crisis today is because those who profess to love God actually love the world as much as those who do not know God.

 “ For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” -1Jn 2:15-16 The main reason is for our salvation: “And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.”- 1Jn 2:17 

The world is about to be destroyed. It doesn’t matter if we believe it or not. God is beyond our understanding and beliefs. The world is getting worse and we can see and experience that in our lives. You may not want to face it but we are getting closer and closer there and we don’t have much time left.

Mrs White also said that on the day of Sodom’s destruction people rose up to work, to do their daily tasks. This tells us prophetically that people will not know what is going to happen but by the heeding of the message in Lot’s story that many will may be ready for for that moment of judgment on the wicked and the deliverance of the righteous in your sight. Loving this world is losing your salvation and that we must repent so that Christ can work in us to will and to do of His good pleasure. Prepare us lord both the elder setting an example for the youth and the youth to subject unto the elder. Get us ready to welcome You when Thou come in glory and we don’t have to run away from your presence but we can say  face to face we behold thee, our Saviour.

If we believe in the prophecies* that the word of God upholds. Our situations is very close to  that situation of Lot and his family. But the question is are we loving this world the same way Lot and his family did? Genesis 19 is trying to tell us  “Do not look back” which means do not love the world because loving the world equals losing God’s salvation. We cannot serve two masters. We either love God and give our all to Him or we don’t although we attend all the Sabbath sermons.and church functions. It is quite disturbing that some Christians only talking about heaven where the street is made of gold, and having mansions therewith a sea that is solid and sparkle as crystal. Is heaven being about being comfortable and having a lot of material things there? Do you believe that is the purpose of heaven? Do we have the right perspective of heaven, the true view about the Will of God and His plan of salvation for humankind?

(*Note: The sure word of Prophecy (2 Peter 1:19 · ‎2 Peter 1:19 Commentaries · ‎2 Peter 1:20)- Bible truth is established in many ways, but none quite so convincing as by prophecy. Anyone who candidly and objectively compares the prophecies of the Bible with the facts of history will be astonished by their accurate fulfilment. And just as there can be no creation without a Creator, there can be no true prophecy without a divine Intellect who “knows the end from the beginning.” - https://sdarm.org/publications/bible-study-guide/ptoc/lesson-6 )

In our discovery journey of visiting the biblical story of Lot, we need to ask the question what is heaven all about? It is simply the truth that Heaven is being all about being with Jesus here in this life and in heaven forever and ever. If we don’t love Jesus here and don’t long for His presence in your life in the decisions that you make, in the plans that you have, there is no heaven for you or for me.  Only by loving Jesus will be in heaven with Him face to face when he comes for us in the second coming, We must also remember that this world is not our home and that we are strangers and pilgrims travelling to the eternal city of God. ( (Heb 11:16;1 Pe 1:17; 2 pe 2:1) If you are not enjoying a personal relationship with Jesus you are definitely loving this world more. There is no middle ground and we must pray to God to help us to love God more. Lord help me to understand that this . Help me to long for that moment when I will see you face to face.( Hymnal No 206)  ( End of Roger’s sermon)

22.2.3 God’s Grace, Mercy and Justice

We are all sinners because of out inherited fallen nature and in need of a saviour. “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. “If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” That is why Jesus opened His Sermon on the Mount with the first, an all important blessing, “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”- Mat 5:3. It is firstly by realising that we on our own self cannot obey the law of God. Jesus also confirmed that “He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”-Jn 15:5. Our salvation is to trust in God by faith in being justified on accepting Christ desiring to repent and return to God. “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”- Phi 2:13. 

Jesus, the Creator God, who became one of us in order to bear all our sins, to sacrificially die on the cross to redeem us all from eternal death will never turn away the wiliest sinner who come to Him. In the parable of the lost sheep He, said: Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. “For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. “How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? “And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. “ Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” (Mat 18:10-14)

The grace of Jesus is sufficient for all of us (2 Cor 12:9). This is illustrated in two cases: one biblical and the other a living testimony.

22.2.3.1 City of Nineveh Repentance

Take for instance the ancient city of Nineveh, discovered on the outskirt of Mosul, Iraq. (See D12, par 2.2.). There is a shrine of Prophet Jonah in Mosul dedicated to him but which was recently destroyed in July 25, 2014 by ISIS. The next day, the Imam of Arahma mosque in Mosul, Sheikh Riad Wasif Ghurairy, said that the terrorist gangs from the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant flogged 23 young men who led demonstrators criticizing the bombing of the shrine of the Prophet Yunus. 

The Bible tells us that Jonah ran away from God when told to convey a message to the wicked people in Nineveh. He was swallowed by a giant fish for three days and spilled out onto land directing him to preach in the city of Nineveh who listened and heeded the warning, and repented of their evil ways resulting in averting the divine judgment for that generation. But Nineveh was eventually destroyed about 150 years later in 612 B.C. as the later generations reverted to their wicked ways again and Assyria is no more. The story of Jonah was taken by scholars and critiques to be a fable  inspite of the  fact that Jesus referred to the story of Jonah as historical ( Mat !2:38-41; Luk 11:29-30, 32)  The history of the date of Nineveh destruction with respect to Jonah’s visit in the reign of Jeroboam II (793-752 B.C.)  and the shrine of Prophet Yunos is another evidence of the authenticity of this biblical story of Jonah.( The story of Jonah is discussed  at http://www.wakeupow.com/159912051 F 12 Tales of unbelief, par 3.2.3 Jonah the Disobedient Prophet – par 3.2.3.4.1 Proclamation for the Second Coming.)

22.2.3.2 Reformed Gay Testimony (from D13, par 4.5.2.4)

Testimony of “anti-gay activist in Italy,  It was circumstances that caused Luka De Tolve to follow the gay lifestyle and focused only on sex. Diagnosed with Aids and given 8 months to live caused him to pray and felt an incredible love that led to his surprising transformation*.  Instead of committing suicide** he returned to church and was told there are ways to get free from the sin of homosexuality. He even asked for a wife and has been married for 5 years now and blessed with a daughter. He believed in God and that God is the truth in life. Homosexuality is not natural. He is very happy and at peace and harmony with himself by knowing God.  

(Note 1: The transformation* is “the work of the Spirit upon the soul revealing itself in every act of him who has felt its saving power. When the Spirit of God takes possession of the heart, it transforms the life. Sinful thoughts are put away, evil deeds are renounced; love, humility, and peace take the place of anger, envy, and strife. Joy takes the place of sadness, and the countenance reflects the light of heaven. No one sees the hand that lifts the burden, or beholds the light descend from the courts above. The blessing comes when by faith the soul surrenders itself to God. Then that power which no human eye can see creates a new being in the image of God.”  {DA 173.1}.. “The science of salvation cannot be explained; but it can be known by experience. Only he who sees his own sinfulness can discern the preciousness of the Saviour.”  {DA 494.4} (This topic will need exploring in another discovery journey on its own.)     

(Note 2: Suicide** Rates in Singapore growing for all demographics. It is the leading cause of death for those aged between 10 and 29 years old (highest numbers)- Wikipedia..(Out of sheer desperation without any Savior to turn to but  take things into your own hands in terminating life is the worst mistake (sin)  (goaded by the devil) as was the case with Judas in betraying Jesus. Parental guidance or the lack of it is the main cause for not teaching their child to believe in the truth about God as the giver of life. In the case of the prodigal son, he remembered  his father’s love and returned  home. A simple prayer asking for God’s help in desperate moment could make the difference.  Belonging to a church community provides the child with watchful eyes to detect any unusual signs of distress exhibited by the child. Lot had Abraham praying for him too. ( see par 22.4.7.1 The Lesson for Parents ).)

22.3 The Rest of Lot’s Misery

The story continues as to why the Lord granted  Lot’s request to move to Zoar, a small city , instead of moving immediately to the mountain away from any city. The lord wants the consequence of sin to be fully manifested as a lesson for mankind, the angels and all the unfallen worlds in the universe.

In verses 19:30-38, Lot later moved to the mountains fearing that Zoar was about to be destroyed. The daughters took charge taking turns to have incest with the Lot who was made drunk first. Gen 19:36  Thus were both the daughters of Lot with child by their father. Gen 19:37  And the firstborn bare a son, and called his name Moab: the same is the father of the Moabites unto this day. Gen 19:38  And the younger, she also bare a son, and called his name Benammi: the same is the father of the children of Ammon unto this day. 

(The Moabites were the descendants of Lot and were neighbours of the Amorites on the opposite side of the Ammon River ( Num 21:13). They possessed many great cities ( Num 21:28-30; 23:7; Isa 15:1) and were prosperous, arrogant, and idolatrous. They were mighty menof war ( Isa 16:6). Th Amorites deprived them of of a large part of ther territory ( Num 21:26). The Moabites refuse to let Israel pass through their county and were so greatly impressed and alarmed by the multitude of the Israelite army that, along with Midian, they sent Balaam to curse it ( Num 22-24) Subsequently Israel was enticed into Idolatry and even intermarried with them. They were always hostile to Israel until King Saul subdued them ( 1 Sam 14:47) Later they became tributary to David and succeeding Jewish kings ( 2 Sam 8:2, 12; 2Kgs 3:4), but they finally joined Babylon against Judah ( 2 Kgs 24:2). On several occasions, God pronounced judgments against Moab ( Isa 15:1-16:14; Jer 48:1-47; Amos 2:1-3).( Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible- Spiros Zodhiates))

22.4 Personal Discovery and a Challenge

If you are still not convinced in the truth of God’s word, the next challenge to you is to read the amplification on the story of Lot in relation to the destruction of Sodom by Ellen G. White in her inspired writing in Patriarchs and Prophets (1890) Chap. 14 - Destruction of Sodom pp156-170 at https://m.egwwritings.org/en/book/84.632#632 She is the messenger of God who was the co-founder of the SDA movement after the great disappointment in Oct 22, 1844 as foretold in Rev 10.The amplification provides the hidden layers in the word of God that only the Holy Spirit can impart to the sincere reader and to the appointed chosen messenger of God for the work of leading us to trust in the word of God.

To facilitate a quick review, key passages are extracted (and underscored) from the chapter to enthuse you to scan through and heed the lessons on how to avoid what befell Lot and his family that will have application for us to escape the destruction of the world that has been prophesied with the second coming of Jesus. This is based on current events in the world fulfilling prophecy as the world is now clamouring for Sundays rest at the bequest of Pope Francis to combat climate change which will snowball to enforcement of Sunday law requiring the acceptance of the mark of the beast. This will trigger the wrath of God with the seven last plagues prior to our deliverance with the coming of Christ to destroy the world.     

Chap. 14 - Destruction of Sodom (Extracts)

Fairest among the cities of the Jordan Valley was Sodom, set in a plain which was "as the garden of the Lord" in its fertility and beauty. Here the luxuriant vegetation of the tropics flourished… Rich harvests clothed the fields, and flocks and herds covered the encircling hills. Art and commerce contributed to enrich the proud city of the plain… {PP 156.1} 

The love of pleasure was fostered by wealth and leisure, and the people gave themselves up to sensual indulgence. "Behold," says the prophet, "this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fullness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. And they were haughty, and committed abomination before Me: therefore I took them away as I saw good." Ezekiel 16:49, 50. There is nothing more desired among men than riches and leisure, and yet these gave birth to the sins that brought destruction upon the cities of the plain. Their useless, idle life made them a prey to Satan's temptations, and they defaced the image of God, and became satanic rather than divine .. {PP 156.2}

At the time of Lot's removal to Sodom, corruption had not become universal, and God in His mercy permitted rays of light to shine amid the moral darkness.

22.4.1 Sodomy on the Last Night

And now the last night of Sodom was approaching. Already the clouds of vengeance cast their shadows over the devoted city. But men perceived it not. While angels drew near on their mission of destruction, men were dreaming of prosperity and pleasure. The last day was like every other that had come and gone. Evening fell upon a scene of loveliness and security… {PP 157.4}

In the twilight two strangers drew near to the city gate. They were apparently travelers coming in to tarry for the night. None could discern in those humble wayfarers the mighty heralds of divine judgment, and little dreamed the gay, careless multitude that in their treatment of these heavenly messengers that very night they would reach the climax of the guilt which doomed their proud city. But there was one man who manifested kindly attention toward the strangers and invited them to his home. Lot did not know their true character, but politeness and hospitality were habitual with him; they were a part of his religion--lessons that he had learned from the example of Abraham… {PP 158.1}

Seeing the abuse to which strangers were exposed in Sodom, Lot made it one of his duties to guard them at their entrance, by offering them entertainment at his own house… They (two angels) seemed to decline his hospitality, saying, "Nay; but we will abide in the street." Their object in this answer was twofold--to test the sincerity of Lot and also to appear ignorant of the character of the men of Sodom, as if they supposed it safe to remain in the street at night. ..He (Lot) pressed his invitation until they yielded, and accompanied him to his house.  {PP 158.3} 

That last night was marked by no greater sins than many others before it; but mercy, so long slighted, had at last ceased its pleading. The inhabitants of Sodom had passed the limits of divine forbearance--"the hidden boundary between God's patience and His wrath." The fires of His vengeance were about to be kindled in the vale of Siddim.  {PP 159.2} 

The angels revealed to Lot the object of their mission: "We will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the Lord; and the Lord hath sent us to destroy it." The strangers whom Lot had endeavored to protect, now promised to protect him, and to save also all the members of his family who would flee with him from the wicked city. The mob had wearied themselves out and departed, and Lot went out to warn his children… They laughed at what they called his superstitious fears. His daughters were influenced by their husbands. They were well enough off where they were. They could see no evidence of danger. Everything was just as it had been. They had great possessions, and they could not believe it possible that beautiful Sodom would be destroyed.  {PP 159.3}

22.4.2 Angels Took Lot’s Family Out

Lot returned sorrowfully to his home and told the story of his failure. Then the angels bade him arise and take his wife and the two daughters who were yet in his house and leave the city. But Lot delayed. Though daily distressed at beholding deeds of violence, he had no true conception of the debasing and abominable iniquity practiced in that vile city. He did not realize the terrible necessity for God's judgments to put a check on sin. Some of his children clung to Sodom, and his wife refused to depart without them. The thought of leaving those whom he held dearest on earth seemed more than he could bear. It was hard to forsake his luxurious home and all the wealth acquired by the labors of his whole life, to go forth a destitute wanderer. Stupefied with sorrow, he lingered, loath to depart. But for the angels of God, they would all have perished in the ruin of Sodom. The heavenly messengers took him and his wife and daughters by the hand and led them out of the city.  {PP 160.1}

Here the angels left them, and turned back to Sodom to accomplish their work of destruction. Another—He (Jesus) with whom Abraham had pleaded--drew near to Lot. In all the cities of the plain, even ten righteous persons had not been found; but in answer to the patriarch's prayer, the one man who feared God was snatched from destruction. The command was given with startling vehemence: "Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed." Hesitancy or delay now would be fatal. To cast one lingering look upon the devoted city, to tarry for one moment from regret to leave so beautiful a home, would have cost their life. The storm of divine judgment was only waiting that these poor fugitives might make their escape.  {PP 160.2} 

22.4.3 Hesitation and its Consequences

But Lot, confused and terrified, pleaded that he could not do as he was required lest some evil should overtake him and he should die. Living in that wicked city, in the midst of unbelief, his faith had grown dim. The Prince of heaven was by his side, yet he pleaded for his own life as though God, who had manifested such care and love for him, would not still preserve him. He should have trusted himself wholly to the divine Messenger, giving his will and his life into the Lord's hands without a doubt or a question. But like so many others, he endeavored to plan for himself:..(He asked to move to Zoar) a few miles from Sodom, and, like it, was corrupt and doomed to destruction… The Lord assured him, "I have accepted thee concerning this thing also, that I will not overthrow this city, for the which thou hast spoken." Oh, how great the mercy of God toward His erring creatures!  {PP 161.1}

22.4.4 Pillar of Salt - Monument of God’s Judgment

Again the solemn command was given to hasten, for the fiery storm would be delayed but little longer. But one of the fugitives ventured to cast a look backward to the doomed city, and she became a monument of God's judgment. If Lot himself had manifested no hesitancy to obey the angels' warning, but had earnestly fled toward the mountains, without one word of pleading or remonstrance, his wife also would have made her escape. The influence of his example would have saved her from the sin that sealed her doom. But his hesitancy and delay caused her to lightly regard the divine warning. While her body was upon the plain, her heart clung to Sodom, and she perished with it. She rebelled against God because His judgments involved her possessions and her children in the ruin. Although so greatly favored in being called out from the wicked city, she felt that she was severely dealt with, because the wealth that it had taken years to accumulate must be left to destruction. Instead of thankfully accepting deliverance, she presumptuously looked back to desire the life of those who had rejected the divine warning. Her sin showed to be unworthy of life, for the preservation of which she felt so little gratitude.  {PP 161.2} 

We should beware of treating lightly God's gracious provisions for our salvation. There are Christians who say, "I do not care to be saved unless my companion and children are saved with me." They feel that heaven would not be heaven to them without the presence of those who are so dear. But have those who cherish this feeling a right conception of their own relation to God, in view of His great goodness and mercy toward them? Have they forgotten that they are bound by the strongest ties of love and honor and loyalty to the service of their Creator and Redeemer? The invitations of mercy are addressed to all; and because our friends reject the Saviour's pleading love, shall we also turn away? The redemption of the soul is precious. Christ has paid an infinite price for our salvation, and no one who appreciates the value of this great sacrifice or the worth of the soul will despise God's offered mercy because others choose to do so. The very fact that others are ignoring His just claims should arouse us to greater diligence, that we may honor God ourselves, and lead all whom we can influence, to accept His love.  {PP 162.1}

22.4.5 Divine Destruction is Sudden

..The stir of active life began in the streets; men were going their various ways, intent on the business or the pleasures of the day. The sons-in-law of Lot were making merry at the fears and warnings of the weak-minded old man. Suddenly and unexpectedly as would be a thunder peal from an unclouded sky, the tempest broke. The Lord rained brimstone and fire out of heaven upon the cities and the fruitful plain; its palaces and temples, costly dwellings, gardens and vineyards, and the gay, pleasure-seeking throngs that only the night before had insulted the messengers of heaven--all were consumed. .. {PP 162.2}

The Redeemer of the world declares that there are greater sins than that for which Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed. Those who hear the gospel invitation calling sinners to repentance, and heed it not, are more guilty before God than were the dwellers in the vale of Siddim. And still greater sin is theirs who profess to know God and to keep His commandments, yet who deny Christ in their character and their daily life. In the light of the Saviour's warning, the fate of Sodom is a solemn admonition, not merely to those who are guilty of outbreaking sin, but to all who are trifling with Heaven-sent light and privileges.  {PP 165.1}

22.4.6 Signs of the Day of the Lord Today

.. There is cause for alarm in the condition of the religious world today. God's mercy has been trifled with. The multitudes make void the law of Jehovah, "teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." Matthew 15:9. Infidelity prevails in many of the churches in our land; not infidelity in its broadest sense--an open denial of the Bible--but an infidelity that is robed in the garb of Christianity, while it is undermining faith in the Bible as a revelation from God. Fervent devotion and vital piety have given place to hollow formalism. As the result, apostasy and sensualism prevail. Christ declared, "As it was in the days of Lot, . . . even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed." Luke 17:28, 30. The daily record of passing events testifies to the fulfillment of His words. The world is fast becoming ripe for destruction. Soon the judgments of God are to be poured out, and sin and sinners are to be consumed.  {PP 166.1}

.. The state of corruption and apostasy that in the last days would exist in the religious world, was presented to the prophet John in the vision of Babylon, "that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth." Revelation 17:18. Before its destruction the call is to be given from heaven, "Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues." Revelation 18:4. As in the days of Noah and Lot, there must be a marked separation from sin and sinners. There can be no compromise between God and the world, no turning back to secure earthly treasures. "Ye cannot serve God and mammon." Matthew 6:24.  {PP 167.1} 

… "Behold, the day of the Lord cometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate: and He shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it." Isaiah 13:9. The great mass of the world will reject God's mercy, and will be overwhelmed in swift and irretrievable ruin. But those who heed the warning shall dwell "in the secret place of the Most High," and "abide under the shadow of the Almighty." His truth shall be their shield and buckler. For them is the promise, "With long life will I satisfy him, and show him My salvation." Psalm 91:1, 4, 16.  {PP 167.2}

22.4.6 Lot Moved to the Mountains

Lot dwelt but a short time in Zoar. Iniquity prevailed there as in Sodom, and he feared to remain, lest the city should be destroyed. Not long after, Zoar was consumed, as God had purposed. Lot made his way to the mountains, and abode in a cave, stripped of all for which he had dared to subject his family to the influences of a wicked city. But the curse of Sodom followed him even here. The sinful conduct of his daughters was the result of the evil associations of that vile place. Its moral corruption had become so interwoven with their character that they could not distinguish between good and evil. Lot's only posterity, the Moabites and Ammonites, were vile, idolatrous tribes, rebels against God and bitter enemies of His people.  {PP 167.3}

.. When Lot entered Sodom he fully intended to keep himself free from iniquity and to command his household after him. But he signally failed. The corrupting influences about him had an effect upon his own faith, and his children's connection with the inhabitants of Sodom bound up his interest in a measure with theirs. The result is before us.  {PP 168.3} 

22.4.7.1 The Lesson for Parents

Many are still making a similar mistake. In selecting a home they look more to the temporal advantages they may gain than to the moral and social influences that will surround themselves and their families. They choose a beautiful and fertile country, or remove to some flourishing city, in the hope of securing greater prosperity; but their children are surrounded by temptation, and too often they form associations that are unfavorable to the development of piety and the formation of a right character. The atmosphere of lax morality, of unbelief, of indifference to religious things, has a tendency to counteract the influence of the parents. Examples of rebellion against parental and divine authority are ever before the youth; many form attachments for infidels and unbelievers, and cast in their lot with the enemies of God.  {PP 168.4} 

…Those who secure for their children worldly wealth and honor at the expense of their eternal interests, will find in the end that these advantages are a terrible loss. Like Lot, many see their children ruined, and barely save their own souls. Their lifework is lost; their life is a sad failure. Had they exercised true wisdom, their children might have had less of worldly prosperity, but they would have made sure of a title to the immortal inheritance.  {PP 169.2}

22.4.8 God’s Promises will be Fulfilled

The heritage that God has promised to His people is not in this world. Abraham had no possession in the earth, "no, not so much as to set his foot on." Acts 7:5. He possessed great substance, and he used it to the glory of God and the good of his fellow men; but he did not look upon this world as his home. The Lord had called him to leave his idolatrous countrymen, with the promise of the land of Canaan as an everlasting possession; yet neither he nor his son nor his son's son received it. When Abraham desired a burial place for his dead, he had to buy it of the Canaanites. His sole possession in the Land of Promise was that rock-hewn tomb in the cave of Machpelah.  {PP 169.3} 

But the word of God had not failed; neither did it meet its final accomplishment in the occupation of Canaan by the Jewish people. "To Abraham and his seed were the promises made." Galatians 3:16. Abraham himself was to share the inheritance. The fulfillment of God's promise may seem to be long delayed--for "one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day" (2 Peter 3:8); it may appear to tarry; but at the appointed time "it will surely come, it will not tarry." Habakkuk 2:3. The gift to Abraham and his seed included not merely the land of Canaan, but the whole earth. So says the apostle, "The promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith." Romans 4:13. And the Bible plainly teaches that the promises made to Abraham are to be fulfilled through Christ. All that are Christ's are "Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise"--heirs to "an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away"--the earth freed from the curse of sin. Galatians 3:29; 1 Peter 1:4. For "the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High;" and "the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace." Daniel 7:27; Psalm 37:11.  {PP 169.4}

God gave to Abraham a view of this immortal inheritance, and with this hope he was content. "By faith he sojourned in the Land of Promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: for he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God." Hebrews 11:9, 10.  {PP 170.1} 

Of the posterity of Abraham it is written, "These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth." Verse 13. We must dwell as pilgrims and strangers here if we would gain "a better country, that is, an heavenly." Verse 16. Those who are children of Abraham will be seeking the city which he looked for, "whose builder and maker is God."  {PP 170.2}

22.4.8.1 The Finale of the Great Controversy- the Good News

Here are excerpts on the Destiny of Satan and the Home of the Righteous from “The Great Controversy, Chapter 42, “The Controversy Ended” by Ellen G. White at  https://m.egwwritings.org/en/book/132.2989#2989

22.4.8.1.1 Destiny of Satan

Satan sees that his voluntary rebellion has unfitted him for heaven. He has trained his powers to war against God; the purity, peace, and harmony of heaven would be to him supreme torture. His accusations against the mercy and justice of God are now silenced. The reproach which he has endeavored to cast upon Jehovah rests wholly upon himself. And now Satan bows down and confesses the justice of his sentence.  {GC 670.2} 

Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy has now been made plain. The results of rebellion, the fruits of setting aside the divine statutes, have been laid open to the view of all created intelligences. The working out of Satan's rule in contrast with the government of God has been presented to the whole universe. Satan's own works have condemned him. God's wisdom, His justice, and His goodness stand fully vindicated. It is seen that all His dealings in the great controversy have been conducted with respect to the eternal good of His people and the good of all the worlds that He has created. "All Thy works shall praise Thee, O Lord; and Thy saints shall bless Thee." Psalm 145:10. The history of sin will stand to all eternity as a witness that with the existence of God's law is bound up the happiness of all the beings He has created. With all the facts of the great controversy in view, the whole universe, both loyal and rebellious, with one accord declare: "Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints."  {GC 670.3}

Before the universe has been clearly presented the great sacrifice made by the Father and the Son in man's behalf. The hour has come when Christ occupies His rightful position and is glorified above principalities and powers and every name that is named. It was for the joy that was set before Him--that He might bring many sons unto glory--that He endured the cross and despised the shame. And inconceivably great as was the sorrow and the shame, yet greater is the joy and the glory. He looks upon the redeemed, renewed in His own image, every heart bearing the perfect impress of the divine, every face reflecting the likeness of their King. He beholds in them the result of the travail of His soul, and He is satisfied. Then, in a voice that reaches the assembled multitudes of the righteous and the wicked, He declares: "Behold the purchase of My blood! For these I suffered, for these I died, that they might dwell in My presence throughout eternal ages." And the song of praise ascends from the white-robed ones about the throne: "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Revelation 5:12.  {GC 671.1} 

"The indignation of the Lord is upon all nations, and His fury upon all their armies: He hath utterly destroyed them, He hath delivered them to the slaughter." "Upon the wicked He shall rain quick burning coals, fire and brimstone and an horrible tempest: this shall be the portion of their cup." Isaiah 9:5; 34:2; Psalm 11:6, margin. Fire comes down from God out of heaven. The earth is broken up. The weapons concealed in its depths are drawn forth. Devouring flames burst from every yawning chasm. The very rocks are on fire. The day has come that shall burn as an oven. The elements melt with fervent heat, the earth also, and the works that are therein are burned up. Malachi 4:1; 2 Peter 3:10. The earth's surface seems one molten mass--a vast, seething lake of fire. It is the time of the judgment and perdition of ungodly men--"the day of the Lord's vengeance, and the year of recompenses for the controversy of Zion." Isaiah 34:8.  {GC 672.2}

The wicked receive their recompense in the earth. Proverbs 11:31. They "shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts." Malachi 4:1. Some are destroyed as in a moment, while others suffer many days. All are punished "according to their deeds." The sins of the righteous having been transferred to Satan, he is made to suffer not only for his own rebellion, but for all the sins which he has caused God's people to commit. His punishment is to be far greater than that of those whom he has deceived. After all have perished who fell by his deceptions, he is still to live and suffer on. In the cleansing flames the wicked are at last destroyed, root and branch--Satan the root, his followers the branches. The full penalty of the law has been visited; the demands of justice have been met; and heaven and earth, beholding, declare the righteousness of Jehovah.  {GC 673.1} 

Satan's work of ruin is forever ended. For six thousand years he has wrought his will, filling the earth with woe and causing grief throughout the universe. The whole creation has groaned and travailed together in pain. Now God's creatures are forever delivered from his presence and temptations. "The whole earth is at rest, and is quiet: they [the righteous] break forth into singing." Isaiah 14:7. And a shout of praise and triumph ascends from the whole loyal universe. "The voice of a great multitude," "as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings," is heard, saying: "Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth." Revelation 19:6.  {GC 673.2} 

22.4.8.1.2 In the Kingdom of God

In the Bible the inheritance of the saved is called "a country." Hebrews 11:14-16. There the heavenly Shepherd leads His flock to fountains of living waters. The tree of life yields its fruit every month, and the leaves of the tree are for the service of the nations. There are ever-flowing streams, clear as crystal, and beside them waving trees cast their shadows upon the paths prepared for the ransomed of the Lord. There the wide-spreading plains swell into hills of beauty, and the mountains of God rear their lofty summits. On those peaceful plains, beside those living streams, God's people, so long pilgrims and wanderers, shall find a home.  {GC 675.1} 

..Pain cannot exist in the atmosphere of heaven. There will be no more tears, no funeral trains, no badges of mourning. "There shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying: . . . for the former things are passed away." "The inhabitant shall not say, I am sick: the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their iniquity." Revelation 21:4; Isaiah 33:24.  {GC 676.1} 

There is the New Jerusalem, the metropolis of the glorified new earth, "a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God." "Her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal." "The nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honor into it." Saith the Lord: "I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in My people." "The tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God." Isaiah 62:3; Revelation 21:11, 24; Isaiah 65:19; Revelation 21:3.  {GC 676.2} 

22.5 Share the Message

If you are impressed by the message, please share this article to as many people who may also by blessed by the truth and be freed from our bondage to the love of this world; for the world is to by destroyed with the second coming of Christ, as the King of kings, and the Lord of the universe. Pray for the burden to save the lost ( the unbelievers, the sodomites, the people of all faiths, the Pharisees and the nominal Christians) before it is too late. Share by word of mouth to visit the website, by photo copy of D22 The Invitation and distributing it to people you meet.

Watch and pray for the power of the Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth, to discern the signs of current events and "looking unto Christ" (Heb 12:2) to be changed "from glory to glory" (2 Cor 3:18) and ready to welcome Christ  at His the second coming.

End of Discovery on the End of the world and of the hope in the new world which is our Eternal City, pg  25/25, Posted on July 29, 2019 by Tsc at singtsc@yahoo.com

D22 End of World at http://www.discoverylifediy.com/443093390  posted July 29, 2019

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