How does Lot's invitation in Genesis 19:2 reflect Christ's call to welcome all? Scene at the Gate “ ‘My lords,’ he said, ‘please turn aside to your servant’s house to wash your feet and spend the night, and then rise early and go on your way.’ But they replied, ‘No, we will spend the night in the square.’ ” (Genesis 19:2) Why Lot’s Welcome Matters • A literal snapshot of urgent hospitality in a hostile place • A living illustration of God’s heart to shelter the vulnerable (Psalm 91:1) • A bridge that points ahead to the greater Host—Christ Himself Echoes of Jesus in Lot’s Gesture • Initiates the invitation: Lot goes out first (v. 1); Jesus came “to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10) • Offers rest and refreshment: washing feet and a meal; Jesus says, “Come to Me, all who are weary … and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28) • Provides protection under his roof; Jesus promises, “In My Father’s house are many rooms” (John 14:2) • Acts despite social risk; Christ “made Himself of no reputation” (Philippians 2:7) to welcome sinners Hospitality: A Thread Woven Through Scripture • Abraham’s feast for three visitors (Genesis 18) • Command to Israel: “Love the foreigner, for you were foreigners” (Deuteronomy 10:19) • New-covenant call: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers” (Hebrews 13:2) • Kingdom parable: invite “the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame” (Luke 14:21) Boundaries of Grace and Truth • Lot shields guests from Sodom’s sin—welcome never excuses wickedness (Genesis 19:6–7) • Jesus welcomes all yet says, “Go and sin no more” (John 8:11) • True hospitality unites compassion with holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16) Living This Out Today • Open your home and table as a gospel outpost • Meet tangible needs—safety, food, listening ears • Include those overlooked: refugees, single parents, the lonely • Guard purity: hospitality is not indulgence but an avenue for redemption • Rely on the Spirit; He turns simple meals into eternal investments Closing Reflection Lot’s porch light in Sodom foreshadows the open door of Christ: “Behold, I stand at the door and knock” (Revelation 3:20). As recipients of that welcome, we extend it—boldly, lovingly, and without compromise—until the true Host returns. |
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