Genesis 18:16-33
Summary for Gen 18:16-33: 18:16-33 a God took Abraham into his confidence as his prophet (18:16-21 b; see 20:7 c); Abraham, in turn, interceded for Sodom (18:23-32 d; see Heb 7:23-26 e). God is able to do whatever he chooses to do; this passage affirms that it will be just and right.Summary for Gen 18:17-19: 18:17-19 f Abraham was responsible for teaching his descendants righteousness and justice so that they might enjoy God’s blessings. It was important for Abraham to know how God’s righteousness was at work in judgment.
Summary for Gen 18:20-21: 18:20-21 g The omniscient God was cautious in his judgment: He knew the sins of Sodom and Gomorrah, but this close scrutiny communicated God’s justice in human terms—he would not destroy the people of the plain unless he was absolutely sure they were wicked. 18:20 h a great outcry: See Ezek 16:49-50 i.
Summary for Gen 18:22-33: 18:22-33 j Abraham probably thought there were more righteous people in Sodom and Gomorrah than there were (see study note on 19:14). In his concern for them, he approached the Lord with a legal appeal based on God’s justice. His prayer seems too bold at times, as though he were bargaining with God, but he approached God with genuine humility and reverence. He did not try to talk God into doing something against his will, but prayed for the well-being of others (contrast Lot’s prayer, 19:18-23 k). God is a righteous judge; righteousness exalts a nation (Prov 14:34 l), and righteous people help to preserve society (cp. Matt 5:13 m).
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