Genesis 18:20

Then the LORD said, "The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great. Because their sin is so grievous,

Study Bible

Then the LORD said
This phrase introduces a direct communication from God, emphasizing His active involvement in human affairs. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, highlighting His covenant relationship with Abraham. This divine speech underscores God's omniscience and justice, as He is aware of the moral state of Sodom and Gomorrah. Historically, this reflects the theophany where God appears to Abraham, demonstrating His willingness to engage with humanity and His concern for righteousness.

The outcry
The term "outcry" in Hebrew is "za'akah," which often denotes a cry for help due to oppression or injustice. This suggests that the sins of Sodom and Gomorrah were not only personal but had societal implications, affecting the innocent and vulnerable. The use of "outcry" indicates that the moral corruption of these cities had reached a level that demanded divine attention. It reflects the biblical theme that God hears the cries of the oppressed and acts in justice.

against Sodom and Gomorrah
Sodom and Gomorrah are historically and archaeologically significant as cities known for their wickedness. These cities, located in the region of the Dead Sea, have become synonymous with sin and divine judgment. The mention of these cities serves as a moral warning throughout Scripture, illustrating the consequences of turning away from God's laws. Their destruction is a testament to God's holiness and the seriousness with which He views sin.

is great
The Hebrew word "rabah" is used here, meaning "great" or "numerous." This indicates the extent and severity of the sin in Sodom and Gomorrah. The greatness of the outcry suggests that the sins were not isolated incidents but pervasive throughout the society. This serves as a reminder of the cumulative effect of sin and the importance of communal righteousness.

Because their sin
The word "sin" in Hebrew is "chatta'ah," which refers to an offense against God's law. The use of "their" personalizes the sin, attributing it directly to the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah. This highlights the biblical principle of personal responsibility and accountability before God. It also reflects the idea that sin is not just a violation of divine law but a breach in the relationship with God.

is so grievous
The Hebrew word "kabed" is translated as "grievous," meaning heavy or burdensome. This conveys the weight and seriousness of the sin, indicating that it was not only frequent but also morally repugnant. The grievous nature of the sin underscores the need for divine intervention and judgment. It serves as a sobering reminder of the destructive power of sin and the necessity of repentance and righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The divine being speaking in this passage, often understood as God in the Christian tradition. This is a moment where God is directly communicating His awareness of human actions.

2. Sodom and Gomorrah
Two ancient cities known for their wickedness and sinfulness. They are often cited as examples of moral decay and divine judgment in biblical literature.

3. The Outcry
This refers to the collective cry of injustice and sin that has reached God. It implies that the sins of Sodom and Gomorrah are not only numerous but also severe enough to demand divine attention.

4. Sin
The grievous actions and behaviors of the people in Sodom and Gomorrah. The Hebrew word for "sin" here is (chatt?'â), indicating a serious moral failing.

5. Abraham
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Abraham is the recipient of God's revelation about Sodom and Gomorrah's impending judgment. His role is crucial in the subsequent intercession for the cities.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
The grievous nature of Sodom and Gomorrah's sin serves as a reminder of how seriously God views sin. It calls believers to examine their own lives and communities for areas of moral failing.

God's Awareness and Justice
This passage highlights that God is aware of human actions and injustices. It reassures believers that God is just and will address wrongdoing in His timing.

Intercession and Compassion
Abraham's subsequent intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18:23-33) teaches the importance of praying for others, even those who are far from God.

The Consequences of Ignoring God
The fate of Sodom and Gomorrah serves as a warning of the consequences of living in persistent sin and ignoring God's standards.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the "outcry" against Sodom and Gomorrah teach us about God's response to injustice and sin in the world today?

2. How can we apply the lesson of Abraham's intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah in our prayer lives, especially for those who do not know God?

3. In what ways does the account of Sodom and Gomorrah challenge us to reflect on the moral state of our own communities?

4. How do the additional scriptures (Ezekiel 16:49-50, Luke 17:28-30, 2 Peter 2:6-8) deepen our understanding of the nature of Sodom and Gomorrah's sin and God's judgment?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that we are living righteously and not falling into the patterns of sin seen in Sodom and Gomorrah?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The subsequent chapter details the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, providing a account continuation of the events foreshadowed in Genesis 18:20.

Ezekiel 16:49-50
These verses provide insight into the specific sins of Sodom, such as pride, gluttony, and neglect of the poor, offering a broader understanding of the "grievous" sin mentioned in Genesis 18:20.

Luke 17:28-30
Jesus references the days of Lot and the destruction of Sodom as a warning of the suddenness of divine judgment, drawing a parallel to the end times.

2 Peter 2:6-8
Peter uses Sodom and Gomorrah as examples of God's judgment on the ungodly, emphasizing the righteousness of Lot amidst the wickedness.