Study Type: Narrative / Theology / Old Testament
Focus: Judgment, Mercy, Intercession, Covenant

Background

Lot is Abraham’s nephew, and they travel together a lot. During one of their travels, the land was to unsteady to hold them. They split up and Lot went to Sodom (a city riddled with sin Genesis 19:5). Before judgement is ever announced, Abraham bargains with the Lord to save the righteous from destruction in Sodom. This sets up the tension between judgement and mercy before the narrative of destruction begins.

Passage Summary

Two angels arrive in Sodom and are taken in by Lot. The men of the city surround Lot’s house and attempt violence against the visitors.

Lot tries to protect them and offers his daughters instead, revealing how deeply the surrounding culture has distorted his moral judgment.

The angels strike the men with blindness, preventing harm.

Lot and his family are warned to flee the city before judgment falls. Sodom is destroyed by sulfur and fire.

During their escape, Lot’s wife looks back at Sodom and becomes a pillar of salt.

Cross References

• Genesis 18:23-33: Abraham Intercedes

Key Themes

• Judgement:
• Mercy:
• Intercession:
• Human Failure:

Character of God

• God listens to prayers.
• God protects the innocent even in wicked places.
• God is just.
• God is merciful.
• Good keeps his promises.
• God remembers his promises.

Notes

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Summary