What is the meaning of Genesis 19:21? “Very well,” • The response signals divine agreement, a gracious “yes” to Lot’s plea (Genesis 19:18-20). • Scripture often shows God answering the petitions of His people. “The LORD is near to all who call on Him…He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him” (Psalm 145:18-19). • Even when judgment is imminent, the Lord remains attentive. Compare Moses’ intercession: “So the LORD relented from the calamity He had threatened” (Exodus 32:14). • These moments remind us that “if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14-15). he answered, • The speaker is the angelic messenger who represents God’s own voice (Genesis 19:1). • Angels routinely convey God’s answers: “Are they not all ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14). • Personal replies underscore a living relationship. “Then the LORD spoke to Job out of the whirlwind” (Job 38:1). • Just as Abraham had been addressed (Genesis 22:11), Lot receives a direct, reassuring reply. I will grant this request as well, • “As well” shows added mercy—first rescuing Lot from Sodom, now sparing his chosen refuge. • God’s generosity is layered: “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). • Jesus echoed the principle: “Ask, and it will be given to you” (Luke 11:9-13). • The Lord’s patience with human weakness shines through: “He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish” (2 Peter 3:9). • Lot’s petition, though small compared with the vast judgment unfolding, is nonetheless honored. and will not demolish the town you indicate. • The town—later called Zoar (Genesis 19:22)—is spared solely because of God’s promise. • Mercy exists alongside judgment; Abraham had earlier interceded for Sodom (Genesis 18:32), foreshadowing this mini-intercession for Zoar. • The principle endures: “The Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials” (2 Peter 2:9). • God’s selective protection prefigures future deliverance: “Because you have kept My command to persevere, I will also keep you from the hour of testing” (Revelation 3:10). • Judgment is never haphazard; “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?” (Genesis 18:25). summary Genesis 19:21 portrays a compassionate, responsive God who hears even a hesitant believer’s plea. By sparing Zoar, the Lord affirms His willingness to temper judgment with mercy, demonstrating that He answers, grants, and protects according to His righteous purposes. |
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