Gen 18:22 | TNotes | STEP | Summary for Gen 18:22-33: 18:22-33 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 ). God is a righteous judge; righteousness exalts a nation (Prov 14:34 ), and righteous people help to preserve society (cp. Matt 5:13 ).

a18:22-33►

b19:18-23►

cProv 14:34►

dMatt 5:13►

‏ Genesis 18:22

Summary for Gen 18:22-33: 18:22-33 ^a 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 ^b). God is a righteous judge; righteousness exalts a nation (Prov 14:34 ^c), and righteous people help to preserve society (cp. Matt 5:13 ^d).