What behaviors should Christians avoid, as seen in Luke 17:28? Setting the Scene “Likewise, as it was in the days of Lot: people were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building.” (Luke 17:28) Jesus points back to Genesis 19 to show how an unsuspecting society pressed on with everyday life while judgment was imminent. Those same attitudes are to be shunned by believers awaiting His return. What Was Going On in Lot’s Day? • Eating and drinking – pursuing constant gratification • Buying and selling – chasing profit and possessions • Planting and building – expanding personal projects and ambitions None of these are sinful in themselves; the problem is obsessive preoccupation with them while ignoring God’s warnings (Genesis 19:12–14). Behaviors to Steer Clear Of • Complacent self-indulgence – Treating food, drink, entertainment, or leisure as ultimate ends (Philippians 3:19). • Materialistic hustle – Making profit the chief goal, neglecting eternal riches (1 Timothy 6:9–10; Matthew 6:19–21). • God-absent planning – Mapping out career or investments without seeking the Lord’s will (James 4:13–16). • Moral dullness – Becoming desensitized to sin in the surrounding culture (2 Peter 2:6–8). • Ignoring divine warnings – Scoffing at prophecy, refusing to repent while there is time (Hebrews 3:12–15). • Cultural conformity – Allowing the world’s rhythms to dictate priorities instead of Scripture (Romans 12:2). Why These Attitudes Are Dangerous • They choke out the Word and its fruit (Luke 8:14). • They dull spiritual alertness needed for Christ’s sudden return (Luke 17:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:2–6). • They draw hearts toward Sodom’s fate rather than Abraham’s hope (Genesis 19:24–26; Hebrews 11:10). How to Cultivate the Opposite Spirit • Practice moderation and gratitude in daily necessities (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Seek first God’s kingdom, trusting Him for provision (Matthew 6:33). • Hold possessions loosely, ready to serve and give (Acts 2:45; 2 Corinthians 9:7). • Schedule regular times to examine life in light of eternity (Psalm 90:12). • Stay anchored in Scripture and fellowship, where warnings and encouragement keep hearts soft (Hebrews 10:24–25). Living Alert While the World Sleeps Jesus calls believers to be watchful, uncluttered by the very pursuits that lulled Sodom to destruction. By resisting complacency and material obsession, Christians shine as people who expect the King to appear at any moment—and who are ready to welcome Him with undivided hearts. |
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