Admirable as was the example of Abram, we observe a perfect contrast to it in,
II. The choice of Lot —
Whether Lot was at that time a converted man, we cannot say: it is certain that twenty years after this he was a truly righteous man, and a most distin- guished favourite of Heaven d: and it is not impro- bable that the change of heart which he experienced, arose from the troubles which his present choice entailed upon him. But without determining his general character, it is very plain that his conduct in the present instance argued,
1. Too great a concern about his temporal in- terests—
[As far as the history informs us, we have no reason to tliink that Lot felt any reluctance in parting with Abram. He had now an opportunity of gratifying his covetous desires ; and he seems to have embraced it with greediness and joy. If he had not been blinded by selfishness, he would have returned the compliment to Abram, and given him his choice : or, if he had accepted Abram's offer, he would at least have endea- voured to make an equitable division of the lands, so that each might have his proper portion of the more fertile coun- try. But instead of this, he surveyed with pleasure the well- watered plains of Jordan, which were beautiful and fruitful like Eden of old, and took the whole of them for himself; regard- less what difficulties his Uncle might experience ; and intent only on his own interests. Who does not see the meanness and illiberality of this conduct? Who does not see that world- liness and covetousness were the governing principles of his heart ? If the man who requested our Lord to interpose in order to obtain for him his proper share of his father's inherit- ance, needed that caution, " Take heed and beware of covet- ousness," much more did the choice of Lot betray a very undue concern about his temporal interests, and a selfishness that was deeply reprehensible.]
2. Too little regard to the interests of his soul —
[Lot could not but know the character of the people of Sodom ; for they declared their sin before all, and without the least reserve : and he ought to have considered what a ten- dency there is in " evil communications to corrupt good man- ners." But as he left Abram without regret, so he went to
d 2 Pet. ii. 7, 8.