Genesis 18:24

What if there are fifty righteous ones in the city? Will You really sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous ones who are there?

Study Bible

Suppose there are
This phrase introduces a hypothetical scenario, a common rhetorical device in ancient Near Eastern dialogues. The Hebrew root here is "ʾûlay" (אוּלַי), which conveys a sense of possibility or conjecture. It reflects Abraham's cautious yet bold approach in negotiating with God, highlighting his deep concern for justice and mercy. This approach encourages believers to engage with God in prayer, bringing their concerns and intercessions before Him with humility and faith.

fifty righteous ones
The number fifty in biblical terms often symbolizes completeness or a significant portion. The Hebrew word for "righteous" is "tsaddiq" (צַדִּיק), which denotes those who are just, lawful, and in right standing with God. Abraham's mention of "fifty righteous ones" underscores the value of righteousness and the impact a small group of faithful individuals can have on a larger community. It serves as a reminder of the power of righteousness to influence and potentially save others, emphasizing the importance of living a life that honors God.

within the city
The city in question is Sodom, known for its wickedness. The Hebrew word "ʿîr" (עִיר) refers to a city or town, often a place of significant social and economic activity. The mention of the city highlights the contrast between the few righteous and the many wicked, illustrating the pervasive nature of sin and the challenge of maintaining righteousness in a corrupt environment. This context calls believers to be a light in the darkness, influencing their communities for good.

Will You really sweep it away
The phrase "sweep it away" comes from the Hebrew "sāphâ" (סָפָה), meaning to destroy or consume completely. Abraham's question reflects his understanding of God's justice and mercy, questioning whether God would destroy the righteous along with the wicked. This inquiry into God's character encourages believers to trust in God's fairness and His willingness to listen to the pleas of His people.

and not spare the place
The word "spare" is derived from the Hebrew "nāśāʾ" (נָשָׂא), meaning to lift, carry, or forgive. Abraham appeals to God's mercy, asking Him to forgive or overlook the sins of the city for the sake of the righteous. This highlights the intercessory role believers can play, standing in the gap for others and seeking God's mercy on their behalf.

for the sake of the fifty righteous ones who are there?
This phrase emphasizes the concept of collective responsibility and the potential for a few righteous individuals to bring about God's mercy on a larger group. It underscores the biblical principle that the presence of the righteous can have a redemptive effect on their surroundings. This serves as an encouragement for believers to live righteously, knowing that their faithfulness can have a profound impact on their communities and even invoke God's grace and protection.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
The patriarch who intercedes with God for the city of Sodom, demonstrating his role as a mediator and a man of faith.

2. God (The LORD)
Engages in a dialogue with Abraham, showcasing His justice and mercy.

3. Sodom
The city under divine scrutiny due to its wickedness, representing human sinfulness and the need for righteousness.

4. Righteous Ones
The hypothetical group of people whose presence could potentially save the city, highlighting the power of righteousness.

5. Intercession
The act of Abraham pleading with God, illustrating the importance of prayer and advocacy.

Teaching Points

The Power of Intercession
Abraham's dialogue with God highlights the importance of interceding for others. Believers are called to pray for their communities and nations, trusting in God's mercy and justice.

God's Justice and Mercy
This passage reveals God's willingness to spare the wicked for the sake of the righteous. It encourages believers to trust in God's perfect balance of justice and mercy.

The Influence of the Righteous
The presence of righteous individuals can have a profound impact on their surroundings. Christians are encouraged to live righteously and influence their communities positively.

The Seriousness of Sin
Sodom's impending judgment serves as a warning about the consequences of sin. Believers are reminded to pursue holiness and avoid complacency in a sinful world.

Faith in God's Character
Abraham's boldness in negotiating with God is rooted in his understanding of God's character. Christians are encouraged to deepen their knowledge of God to strengthen their faith and prayer life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abraham's intercession for Sodom challenge us to pray for our own communities and nations today?

2. In what ways can we, as believers, act as "righteous ones" in our own cities and communities?

3. How does the account of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19 reinforce the lessons learned from Abraham's intercession in Genesis 18:24?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's character, and how can that understanding impact our daily walk with Him?

5. How can we apply the principle of being "salt and light" from Matthew 5:13-16 in the context of Genesis 18:24?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The subsequent destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, which underscores the gravity of sin and the importance of righteousness.

James 5:16
The power of a righteous person's prayer, connecting to Abraham's intercession.

2 Peter 2:6-9
The rescue of Lot from Sodom, emphasizing God's ability to save the righteous from judgment.

Ezekiel 22:30
God's search for someone to stand in the gap, paralleling Abraham's role as an intercessor.

Matthew 5:13-16
The call for believers to be salt and light, reflecting the influence of the righteous in a sinful world.