Rescue From The Flames Of Judgment Series

In the Bible, we are reminded of the importance of showing mercy and compassion to those around us. As followers of Christ, we are called to rescue others from the flames of judgment, just as God has rescued us from our own sins. However, this task is not without its challenges, as we must be careful not to become contaminated by the sins of others. In this sermon we will explore seven biblical examples of individuals who were called to rescue others from the flames of judgment, and the lessons we can learn from their experiences.

1. Noah and the Ark: Saving a World from Destruction

In the book of Genesis, Noah is instructed by God to build an ark to save himself, his family, and two of every kind of animal from the impending flood (Genesis 6-9). This flood was a judgment from God on a wicked and corrupt world. Noah's obedience and faithfulness to God's instructions allowed him to rescue those who would otherwise have perished in the flames of judgment.

Lesson: We must be obedient to God's instructions and trust in His plan to rescue others from judgment.

2. Lot and the Destruction of Sodom

In Genesis 19, Lot is living in the city of Sodom, which is on the brink of destruction due to its rampant wickedness. Despite the corrupt environment, Lot is called to rescue his family and neighbors from the flames of judgment. However, his wife looks back and is contaminated by the sins of Sodom, losing her life in the process (Genesis 19:26).

Lesson: We must be careful not to become contaminated by the sins of others, lest we lose our own lives in the process.

3. Moses and the Israelites: Rescue from Slavery

In the book of Exodus, Moses is called by God to rescue the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Despite the many challenges and hardships they faced, Moses remained faithful to God's plan and led the Israelites to freedom (Exodus 3-14).

Lesson: We must trust in God's plan to rescue others from bondage and oppression, even when the journey is difficult.

4. Rahab and the Spies: Saving the Family

In Joshua 2, Rahab, a prostitute living in Jericho, is called to rescue two Israelite spies from the flames of judgment. By hiding them and helping them escape, Rahab and her family are spared when the city is destroyed (Joshua 6:25).

Lesson: We can show mercy and compassion to others, even in the midst of judgment, and rescue those who would otherwise perish.

5. Jonah and the People of Nineveh: A Call to Repentance

In the book of Jonah, the prophet is called to rescue the people of Nineveh from God's judgment. Despite initial reluctance, Jonah preaches a message of repentance, and the people turn from their sins, sparing the city from destruction (Jonah 3).

Lesson: We must be willing to preach a message of repentance to others, that they may turn from their sins and avoid judgment.

6. The Good Samaritan: Showing Mercy to a Stranger

In Luke 10:25-37, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan, who rescues a stranger from the side of the road, despite the risks and challenges involved.

Lesson: We must be willing to show mercy and compassion to those in need, even if they are strangers or outsiders.

7. Paul and the Philippian Jailer: Rescue from Spiritual Bondage

In Acts 16:16-34, the apostle Paul and his companion Silas are imprisoned in Philippi. After an earthquake, the jailer is about to take his own life, but Paul and Silas rescue him and lead him to faith in Christ.

Lesson: We can rescue others from spiritual bondage and lead them to faith in Christ, even in the most unexpected circumstances.

In conclusion, the Bible calls us to rescue others from the flames of judgment, just as God has rescued us from our own sins. By studying these examples, we can learn valuable lessons about obedience, mercy, and compassion, and become more effective instruments of God's rescue plan. May we be faithful to this call, and may God bless us as we seek to rescue others from the flames of judgment.