Bible Commentaries
Genesis 19

Verses 1-38

Here the story of the visit of Jehovah and the angels is continued. Here we see the two angels coming to Lot. By this time Lot had attained to a position of eminence in Sodom. The phrase, "sitting in the gate," indicates that. The three Visitors sat and ate with Abraham. The two would hardly enter the dwelling of Lot. Whereas he was anxious to deliver them from the known wickedness of the citizens, it is evident how he had failed in the life of faith. The man who had attempted to compromise with principle is here seen hated of the world, having lost his personal peace, his testimony paralyzed, and utterly unable to influence his city toward righteousness.

The revelation of his failure is most clearly seen in his inability to influence his own family. Moreover, the deterioration of his own character is vividly portrayed. Here, in sight of judgment, he lingered and was saved only as angel hands laid hold on him and practically forced him forth.

The destruction of the cities of the Plain was due to corruption, following godless prosperity. Their cup of iniquity was full. Their unutterable pollution flamed forth in their attitude toward the supernatural Visitors. Over against this terrible failure of Lot, Abraham is seen as the man of faith. He had interceded for Sodom and now stood at the place where he met Jehovah, looking toward the cities of the Plain. Were his prayers unanswered? Nay, verily, for "God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow."