Genesis 19:2

and said, "My lords, please turn aside into the house of your servant; wash your feet and spend the night. Then you can rise early and go on your way." "No," they answered, "we will spend the night in the square."

Study Bible

My lords
The Hebrew word used here is "אֲדֹנָי" (Adonai), which is a term of respect and recognition of authority. In the context of Genesis 19, Lot addresses the visitors with a deep sense of reverence, acknowledging their importance. This reflects the cultural norms of hospitality and respect in ancient Near Eastern societies, where guests were often treated with the utmost honor.

please turn aside
The phrase "please turn aside" is a polite invitation, indicative of the hospitality that was a crucial aspect of ancient Middle Eastern culture. The Hebrew word "סוּרוּ" (suru) implies a gentle urging or request. Lot's insistence on providing shelter underscores the biblical theme of hospitality as a righteous act, aligning with the broader scriptural narrative that emphasizes caring for strangers.

into the house of your servant
Lot refers to himself as a "servant," using the Hebrew word "עֶבֶד" (eved), which denotes humility and a willingness to serve. This self-identification as a servant is significant, as it reflects Lot's understanding of his role in relation to his guests and his desire to honor them. The concept of servanthood is a recurring theme in the Bible, highlighting the virtue of humility and service to others.

wash your feet
Foot washing was a common practice in ancient times, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. The act of washing feet, often performed by a host or a servant, was a gesture of welcome and care. It is reminiscent of later biblical narratives, such as Jesus washing the disciples' feet, symbolizing purification, humility, and service.

spend the night
The invitation to "spend the night" reflects the urgency and concern Lot had for the safety of his guests. In the ancient world, nighttime travel was fraught with danger, and offering shelter was a protective measure. This phrase underscores the biblical principle of providing refuge and safety to those in need.

Then you can rise early and go on your way
Lot's suggestion to "rise early and go on your way" indicates his awareness of the potential dangers in Sodom. The phrase suggests a desire for the guests to leave before the city awakens, highlighting Lot's protective instincts. It also reflects the biblical theme of divine timing and guidance, as the visitors' journey is part of a larger divine plan.

No, they answered, we will spend the night in the square
The visitors' initial refusal to stay with Lot, opting instead to "spend the night in the square," serves as a narrative device to highlight the contrast between Lot's hospitality and the city's wickedness. The square, or public space, was typically a place of social gathering, but in Sodom, it was fraught with moral peril. This refusal sets the stage for the unfolding events and underscores the tension between divine protection and human depravity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Lot
A righteous man living in Sodom, Abraham's nephew, who shows hospitality to the visiting angels.

2. Angels
Divine messengers sent by God to Sodom to assess the city's wickedness and to rescue Lot and his family.

3. Sodom
A city known for its grave sinfulness, which ultimately leads to its destruction by God.

4. The Square
The public area of the city where the angels initially intended to stay, highlighting the city's lack of hospitality and safety.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Hospitality
Lot's invitation to the angels demonstrates the biblical value of hospitality, which is a tangible expression of love and service to others.

Discernment in a Corrupt World
Lot's actions show the need for discernment and righteousness in a world filled with sin, as he recognizes the danger of the angels staying in the square.

God's Protection and Guidance
The presence of the angels signifies God's protection over Lot and his family, reminding believers of God's guidance in times of peril.

The Consequences of Sin
The context of Sodom's impending judgment serves as a warning about the consequences of living in persistent sin and the importance of repentance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Lot's hospitality in Genesis 19:2 reflect the biblical principle of serving others, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Lot and the angels challenge us to practice discernment in our interactions with the world around us?

3. How can we find comfort in God's protection and guidance, as seen in the account of Lot, when facing difficult or dangerous situations?

4. What lessons can we learn from the destruction of Sodom about the consequences of sin and the importance of living a righteous life?

5. How do the actions of Lot in Genesis 19:2 connect with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament regarding hospitality and service to others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 13:2
This verse encourages believers to show hospitality to strangers, as some have entertained angels without knowing it, directly connecting to Lot's actions.

Matthew 25:35-40
Jesus speaks about the importance of hospitality and serving others, which reflects Lot's willingness to serve the angels.

2 Peter 2:7-8
Peter describes Lot as a righteous man distressed by the depraved conduct of the lawless, providing insight into his character and the environment of Sodom.