Genesis 19:28

He looked down toward Sodom and Gomorrah and all the land of the plain, and he saw the smoke rising from the land like smoke from a furnace.

Study Bible

and he looked down
The phrase "looked down" suggests a vantage point of observation, often associated with divine perspective or judgment. In Hebrew, the verb used here is "נָבַט" (nabat), which means to look intently or to regard with attention. This implies not just a casual glance but a purposeful observation, possibly reflecting God's omniscience and the gravity of the situation. Abraham, from his elevated position, witnesses the aftermath of divine judgment, reminding us of God's sovereignty and the serious consequences of sin.

toward Sodom and Gomorrah
Sodom and Gomorrah are infamous cities known for their wickedness and subsequent destruction. The historical and archaeological context suggests these cities were located near the Dead Sea, an area known for its sulfur and bitumen deposits, which could naturally contribute to the "fire and brimstone" narrative. The mention of these cities serves as a moral and spiritual lesson on the dangers of deviating from God's commandments and the inevitable judgment that follows unrepentant sin.

and toward all the land of the plain
The "land of the plain" refers to the fertile Jordan Valley, which was once lush and well-watered, akin to the "garden of the LORD" (Genesis 13:10). This phrase highlights the extent of the destruction, emphasizing that the judgment was not limited to the cities alone but affected the entire region. It serves as a stark reminder of the comprehensive nature of God's judgment when His righteousness is violated.

and he saw the smoke rising
The imagery of "smoke rising" is evocative of destruction and desolation. In Hebrew, "עָשָׁן" (ashan) is the word for smoke, often associated with burning and divine wrath. This visual serves as a powerful symbol of the totality of the destruction and the irreversible nature of God's judgment. It also foreshadows the ultimate judgment that will come upon the earth, urging believers to live righteously.

from the land
The phrase "from the land" indicates the source of the smoke, underscoring the complete devastation of the area. The land, once a symbol of prosperity and abundance, is now a testament to the consequences of sin. This transformation from fertility to barrenness serves as a metaphor for the spiritual desolation that results from turning away from God.

like smoke from a furnace
The comparison to "smoke from a furnace" conveys intense heat and thorough destruction. In ancient times, a furnace was used for refining metals, symbolizing purification through fire. This imagery suggests that the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah was not only punitive but also purifying, removing the wickedness from the land. It serves as a sobering reminder of the refining fire of God's judgment and the call to holiness for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
The patriarch who interceded for Sodom and Gomorrah, demonstrating his concern for righteousness and justice.

2. Sodom and Gomorrah
Cities known for their wickedness, which faced divine judgment and destruction.

3. The Plain
The geographical area where Sodom and Gomorrah were located, known for its fertility before the destruction.

4. Smoke Rising
A symbol of the complete destruction and judgment that befell the cities, akin to smoke from a furnace.

5. Divine Judgment
The event of God's wrath being poured out on Sodom and Gomorrah due to their sinfulness.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah serves as a stark reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin and the inevitable judgment that follows unrepentance.

Intercessory Prayer
Abraham's role as an intercessor encourages believers to pray earnestly for others, especially those who are lost or living in sin.

God's Justice and Mercy
While God is just and must punish sin, He is also merciful and willing to spare the righteous, as seen in His dialogue with Abraham.

The Reality of Divine Judgment
The imagery of smoke rising like a furnace is a vivid reminder of the reality of divine judgment, urging believers to live righteously and warn others.

Living in Expectation
Just as the destruction of Sodom was sudden, believers are called to live in expectation of Christ's return, maintaining readiness and faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abraham's intercession for Sodom challenge us in our prayer lives, especially concerning those who are far from God?

2. In what ways does the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah serve as a warning for contemporary society?

3. How can we balance the understanding of God's justice with His mercy in our daily walk with Him?

4. What lessons can we learn from the suddenness of Sodom's destruction in terms of being prepared for Christ's return?

5. How does the imagery of smoke rising like a furnace impact your understanding of the consequences of sin and the urgency of sharing the Gospel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 18
Abraham's intercession for Sodom, highlighting God's willingness to spare the righteous.

2 Peter 2:6
References Sodom and Gomorrah as examples of God's judgment on the ungodly.

Luke 17:29-30
Jesus uses the destruction of Sodom as a warning of the suddenness of His return and the final judgment.

Revelation 18:9
The imagery of smoke rising is echoed in the judgment of Babylon, symbolizing complete destruction.

Isaiah 13:19
Compares the fall of Babylon to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, emphasizing divine retribution.