What is the meaning of Genesis 19:18? But Lot replied • Lot’s immediate response shows he heard the angels’ command clearly (Genesis 19:17), demonstrating that the event is factual and historical. • His reply marks a turning point: the conversation shifts from the angels’ directive to Lot’s personal request, much like Abraham’s dialogues with the Lord in Genesis 18:27, 30, 32. • Scripture often highlights the importance of responding to God-given instruction; compare Joshua 24:15 (“choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve”) and Hebrews 3:7-8 (“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts”). “No, my lords • Lot’s “No” is not an outright rebellion but a plea for an alternative, parallel to Gideon’s hesitant “Pardon me, my Lord” in Judges 6:15. • Calling the angels “my lords” shows respect for their authority, aligning with Hebrews 13:2’s reminder that some have entertained angels unaware. • The moment highlights the tension between obedience and fear; similar hesitation appears in Exodus 4:13 when Moses answers, “Please, Lord, send someone else.” • Yet Lot’s respectful tone contrasts with the men of Sodom earlier in the chapter (Genesis 19:5–9), underlining the difference between righteousness that hesitates and wickedness that mocks. please! • The single word “please” captures Lot’s desperation and dependence—an echo of David’s cries in Psalm 143:7 (“Answer me quickly, O LORD”). • It conveys humility; Lot is not demanding but petitioning, aware that deliverance ultimately rests with the Lord (Psalm 121:1-2). • His plea anticipates verse 19, where he asks to flee to a small town instead of the mountains, showing that God listens to specific requests (Philippians 4:6). • The verse reminds us that even a righteous man (2 Peter 2:7) can feel overwhelmed and ask for mercy, yet God accommodates within His sovereign will (Genesis 19:21). summary Genesis 19:18 records Lot’s respectful yet hesitant answer to the angels. His words reveal (1) a real historical dialogue, (2) a genuine struggle between fear and faith, and (3) the gracious openness of God to hear the sincere pleas of His people. Lot’s “No… please” teaches that believers may bring honest concerns to the Lord while still honoring His authority, confident that He will work deliverance according to His perfect plan. |
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