What does Abraham's approach teach us about God's justice and mercy? Setting the Scene: Genesis 18:22 “Then the men turned away from there and went toward Sodom, but Abraham remained standing before the LORD.” • The narrative presents a literal moment: heavenly visitors depart, and Abraham stands face-to-face with God. • This pause becomes an invitation for intercession, revealing God’s openness to dialogue with His covenant partner. Abraham’s Boldness: Confidence in God’s Character • Abraham steps forward because he already knows the LORD as faithful and righteous (Genesis 15:6; James 2:23). • He speaks plainly—almost audaciously—yet always with reverence (Genesis 18:27, 30, 32: “Let my Lord not be angry…”). • His plea is anchored in what he has learned of God: – “Will not the Judge of all the earth do what is right?” (Genesis 18:25). – God’s moral perfection is non-negotiable; Abraham banks on it. Justice Highlighted: The Righteous Are Never Treated as the Wicked • Abraham’s chief concern: that the righteous might be swept away with the wicked (18:23-25). • Scripture consistently affirms this principle: – Psalm 89:14: “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne.” – Exodus 34:7: God “will by no means leave the guilty unpunished.” • Note the descending numbers (50, 45, 40, 30, 20, 10). Each step underscores that even a tiny minority of righteous people matters to God’s judicial dealings. Mercy Spotlighted: God’s Willingness to Spare • The Lord never rebukes Abraham for asking; instead He repeatedly agrees (Genesis 18:26, 28-32). • Divine mercy is generous, even eager: – Ezekiel 18:23: God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked. – 2 Peter 3:9: He is “patient… not wanting anyone to perish.” • The negotiated numbers reveal God’s heart: He will spare an entire city for the sake of even ten righteous inhabitants. Patterns Repeated Throughout Scripture • Moses echoes the same plea after the golden calf (Exodus 32:11-14). • The prophets intercede for Israel’s survival (Jeremiah 14:7-9; Daniel 9:18-19). • Jesus weeps over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41-44) and, as the ultimate intercessor, offers Himself (Hebrews 7:25). • James 2:13 declares, “Mercy triumphs over judgment,” summarizing the balance Abraham witnessed. Practical Takeaways for Us Today • Approach God with confidence in His revealed character—justice and mercy in perfect harmony. • Intercede courageously for those under judgment; God listens. • Recognize that even a small remnant of faithful people can influence God’s dealings with a community. • Hold both truths—God punishes sin and delights to forgive—in healthy tension, just as Abraham did. |
    |