Genesis 21:22
1 Peter 2:7
"and if He rescued righteous Lot, oppressed by the sensual conduct of unprincipled men...."
Lot, by choice, had embedded himself and his family within the confines of the city of Sodom, a city well known for their wickedness. The Lord in His righteousness, graciously would almost forcibly lead this family out of the city before raining down judgement. Yet, the final chapter of Lot and his family, is hallmarked by disaster, disgrace, despair and death. Indeed, a horrible epitaph brought on by poor decisions. In this, we are surely reminded that we take even the "slam dunks, the no brainers" to the Lord in prayer. The "obvious" choice of the well watered, lush and prosperous city of Sodom would eventually lead to a loss of witness and power, compromise and bring a love for the world.
Pastor Russell
2 Corinthians 6:18
Genesis 17:1
Genesis 15:1
Genesis 14:12
Genesis 13:8-9a
Genesis 11:6
Genesis 8:10, 12, 15-16
1 Peter 2:5
"and did not spare the ancient world, but preserved Noah, a preacher of righteousness, with seven others, when He brought a flood upon the world of the ungodly;"
As we look at one verse that describes the man Noah, we find that the Lord not only preserved he and his family, but called him a preacher of righteousness. An important attribute as God had called him not only to the task of building the ark, but telling those around him of His righteousness. The Lord called Noah to proclaim the excellencies of God, along with the impending judgement to come. While we are not told of multitudes of converts or mega-church ministry, we see in Genesis that Noah simply did all the Lord directed him to do. Child like faith in obedience brought Noah and his remnant family through the flood, escaping judgement. We should all look to Noah, as to be preachers of God's righteousness as we see the day drawing near.
Pastor Russell
Genesis 6:8
Genesis 4:26
Mathew 20:18-19
"Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem; and the Son of Man will be delivered to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn Him to death, and they will hand Him over to the gentiles to mock and scourge and crucify Him, and on the third day He will be raised up."
Before entering the city, our Lord pulled His disciples aside and gave to them, a one sentence summary of what was to go on this week of His passion. His appointment with the cross would not be denied, but not before being filled with dicey dialogue with the religious leaders, ministry to the needy, broken and condemned, sleepiness and even denial by those closest to Him. Yet on that faithful Sunday morning of His resurrection, the resounding shouts of joy, relief, anticipation and wonder filled the air. With the cries "He is risen" sounding and continuing to sound for us today, His completed work on the cross is for all men.
Pastor Russell