Except the Lord of hosts had left unto us a very small remnant, we should have been as Sodom, and we should have been like unto Gomorrah.
Isaiah 1:9 KJV
Consider how the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah found themselves in the dire situation described in the verse. Their names are now synonymous with wickedness, but the story of their downfall holds important lessons. Understanding their fate provides valuable insights into the significance of seeking God’s guidance for a right standing before Him. To fully grasp the wisdom within this passage, let’s delve deeper into their story.
Like any other city, Sodom and Gomorrah were not without sin. However, understanding the reasons behind their catastrophic end is essential. Their journey from sin to destruction holds critical lessons for us. It highlights the critical role played by a small remnant of righteous individuals.
So the Lord said to Abraham, ‘I have heard how bad the people in Sodom and Gomorrah are. Everybody says that their sins are very bad. So I must go down there to see if it is really true. I will see if those people are as bad as everybody says they are. Then I will know what is true.’
Genesis 18:20-21 EASY
When news of Sodom and Gomorrah’s wickedness reached the Lord, He did not rush to judgment. His mercy shone through as He sought to give them another chance. He wanted to see if there were any righteous among the wicked. Abraham, a faithful servant of God, stood in the gap for these cities. His prayers demonstrated God’s willingness to spare them if even a few righteous individuals were found.
The Lord said, “If I find fifty righteous people in the city of Sodom, I will spare the whole place for their sake.” what if the number of the righteous is five less than fifty? Will you destroy the whole city for lack of five people?” “If I find forty-five there,” he said, “I will not destroy it.” Then he said, “May the Lord not be angry, but let me speak just once more. What if only ten can be found there?” He answered, “For the sake of ten, I will not destroy it.”
Genesis 18:26,28,32 NIV
In this remarkable conversation with God, Abraham negotiated on behalf of these sinful cities. This dialogue continued, with Abraham inquiring if God would spare the cities for the sake of forty-five, then forty, and eventually, ten righteous people. Sadly, they couldn’t find even ten righteous souls. Therefore, the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah sealed due to the absence of righteous individuals. This prompts us to consider the impact our righteousness can have in our generation.
It was in a similar search that Noah was found in his days. So, permit me to note with you that God, in His mercy does a similar investigation in every generation. Likewise, He is searching for men and women for His purpose in our own generations.
Run to and fro through the streets of Jerusalem, and see now and take notice! Seek in her broad squares to see if you can find a man [as Abraham sought in Sodom], one who does justice, who seeks truth, sincerity, and faithfulness; and I will pardon [Jerusalem–for one uncompromisingly righteous person].
Jeremiah 5:1 AMPC
In this tale, we see how a handful of righteous individuals could have spared an entire city. There was no one on who’s account Sodom and Gomorrah could have been prevented from the destruction. Reflect on the significance of your righteousness in your ‘Sodom and Gomorrah’. Consider the lives you might save by standing righteously before God. Will you passively watch the wickedness around you, or will you take responsibility?
You, too, can find favour before the Lord, like Noah did. You can become a part of the “very small remnant” that God seeks, even in our generation. Don’t underestimate the impact of even a few committed individuals. Don’t undermine the impact you can have on those around you. Rise up and accept the challenge, be vocal about your faith, and contribute to a revival in this generation. Don’t be like the silent remnant of Sodom and Gomorrah; instead, raise the banner of Jesus with conviction and purpose. Cry out for God’s favour and be part of the remnant that He is seeking in your generation.
In conclusion, the story of Sodom and Gomorrah teaches us that a small remnant of the righteous can make a significant difference. Therefore, each of us must take up the responsibility to be part of the remnant God seeks in our generation. As we seek to align with God’s will and righteousness, let’s rise to the occasion. Our commitment to living righteously and being vocal about our faith can have a powerful impact, potentially sparing our society from spiritual decline. Stand up and join the remnant committed to a revival in this generation.