What is the meaning of Genesis 18:26? So the LORD replied • Abraham has just voiced concern for any godly people who might live in Sodom (Genesis 18:23–25). The Lord’s immediate response shows He is neither distant nor indifferent to intercession. • Scripture consistently presents the Lord as answering those who call on Him: “The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth” (Psalm 145:18); “Call to Me and I will answer you” (Jeremiah 33:3). • The personal name “LORD” (YHWH) reminds us that the covenant-keeping God is speaking—He is faithful, relational, and utterly dependable (Exodus 34:6–7). If I find fifty righteous ones • God is not guessing; He will “find” or investigate. His judgments are always informed and precise (Deuteronomy 32:4). • “Righteous ones” are those who walk in faith-fueled obedience, standing in right relationship with God (Habakkuk 2:4; Romans 4:3). • The number fifty is substantial for one city; it underscores that God is willing to spare many wicked for the sake of comparatively few who honor Him. • Compare Proverbs 11:10–11: “When the righteous thrive, the city rejoices… By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted.” within the city of Sodom • The Lord’s search is local and exact: He will look “within the city,” not merely in the surrounding plains. His omniscience penetrates every street and household (2 Chronicles 16:9). • Sodom is historically notorious for its sin (Genesis 13:13). By pinpointing the city, God highlights that no place is beyond His scrutiny (Psalm 139:7–12). • Jonah 3:3 shows a parallel: Nineveh was “an exceedingly great city,” yet God still evaluated it house by house. on their account • The presence of the righteous brings tangible blessing and protection to others. Lot’s household later experiences this principle when angels literally pull them out of danger (Genesis 19:15–16). • Isaiah 1:9 notes, “If the LORD of Hosts had not left us a few survivors, we would have become like Sodom.” A remnant can stay judgment. • Jesus picks up the same theme: “You are the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13). Salt preserves; so do God’s people. I will spare the whole place • God’s readiness to withhold destruction reveals His mercy. He does not delight in judgment but in showing compassion (Ezekiel 33:11; Jonah 4:2). • This line illustrates the principle of substitutionary grace: the righteousness of a few averts wrath for many. Ultimately this points to Christ, whose singular righteousness delivers all who believe (Romans 5:18–19). • 2 Peter 3:9 echoes the heart behind the promise: “The Lord is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” summary Genesis 18:26 portrays a God who listens, investigates, and delights to show mercy. Even a handful of faithful people can shield an entire community because righteousness matters that much to Him. The verse highlights His willingness to relent when He finds genuine godliness, underscoring both His justice—He will search out sin—and His grace—He longs to spare and save. |
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