What is the meaning of Genesis 18:22? The two men turned away • In the preceding verses (Genesis 18:1–21), three visitors appeared to Abraham; two were angels, and the third was “the LORD” Himself. • Here, the narrative shifts focus: “the two men” (Genesis 18:16; cf. Genesis 19:1) identify the angelic messengers who will soon execute judgment. • Hebrews 13:2 reminds us that some have “entertained angels unaware,” highlighting God’s practice of sending heavenly beings on earthly errands. • Their departure underscores that the moment for hospitality and revelation has passed; now their mission turns to justice (Genesis 18:20-21). and went toward Sodom • The angels’ destination is deliberate: Sodom, a city notorious for its sin (Genesis 13:13; 18:20). • Their movement signals that divine patience has reached its limit (Genesis 19:13; Jude 7). • While Sodom’s inhabitants remain oblivious, heaven’s agents advance—echoing later judgments such as the flood’s approach (Matthew 24:38-39) and the sudden fall of Babylon (Revelation 18:8). • This literal journey highlights God’s active governance of the moral order (2 Peter 2:6). but Abraham remained standing before the LORD • Abraham does not follow the angels; instead, he positions himself before the LORD, ready to intercede. • The stance is purposeful: standing denotes readiness, reverence, and bold access (Exodus 33:9-11; Isaiah 6:8). • Abraham models priestly advocacy—pleading for mercy on behalf of the righteous within Sodom (Genesis 18:23-33). • His posture foreshadows the greater Mediator, Christ, who “always lives to intercede” (Hebrews 7:25) and invites believers to “come boldly to the throne of grace” (Hebrews 4:16). • God welcomes such intervention; Ezekiel 22:30 laments the absence of someone to “stand in the gap,” while James 5:16 affirms that “the prayer of a righteous person is powerful.” summary Genesis 18:22 marks a pivotal pause: the angels move toward judgment, yet Abraham stays before the LORD, opening the door for intercession. The verse teaches that God’s justice proceeds with certainty, but He also invites His people to stand before Him, appealing for mercy. Justice and mercy meet in this moment, revealing both the righteousness of God and the privilege of believers to plead for others. |
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