What can we learn about God's justice from Genesis 18:16? Setting the Scene • Genesis 18 finds Abraham entertaining three visitors—one of whom is the LORD Himself in visible form (vv. 1–2, 17). • Verse 16 marks a turning point: the visitors rise, gaze toward Sodom, and Abraham accompanies them. • This simple movement signals the shift from promised blessing (Isaac’s birth, vv. 9–15) to impending judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah (vv. 20–33). Text in Focus “ ‘When the men got up to leave, they looked down toward Sodom, and Abraham walked along with them to see them on their way.’ ” (Genesis 18:16) Key Observations • “Got up to leave” – God’s messengers act decisively; justice is never accidental. • “Looked down toward Sodom” – an intentional, investigative gaze; nothing escapes divine scrutiny (Psalm 11:4). • “Abraham walked along with them” – the covenant friend of God is brought near to the scene of judgment, hinting at intercession to come. What This Teaches About God’s Justice • Justice is rooted in perfect knowledge – The Lord’s “looking” underscores complete awareness before acting (cf. Proverbs 15:3). – No sentence is passed without full, firsthand examination (Genesis 18:21). • Justice proceeds deliberately, not impulsively – Rising, looking, then moving: a measured sequence mirrors God’s orderly character (1 Corinthians 14:33). – Abraham’s accompaniment shows there is still a window for dialogue and mercy (vv. 23–32). • Justice remains consistent with covenant mercy – God involves Abraham, His covenant partner, in the process (Genesis 18:17–19). – Judgment on Sodom will protect future generations of the faithful and preserve righteousness (2 Peter 2:6–9). • Justice differentiates between the righteous and the wicked – The very act of “looking toward Sodom” foreshadows rescue for Lot amid destruction for the city (Genesis 19:15–17). – Deuteronomy 32:4 affirms: “All His ways are justice; a God of faithfulness and without injustice.” Putting It Into Practice • Trust: God sees every act—public or hidden—and will judge rightly. • Wait: His timing may appear slow, yet it is precise and purposeful (2 Peter 3:9). • Intercede: Like Abraham, believers are invited to stand in the gap for those under impending judgment (1 Timothy 2:1–4). |
    |