Biblical Context:
The account of Lot welcoming the angels is found in Genesis 19:1-11. This narrative is a continuation of the events that began in Genesis 18, where Abraham intercedes for Sodom and Gomorrah. The account of Lot and the angels is pivotal in understanding the moral and spiritual decline of Sodom and the righteousness of Lot amidst a corrupt society.

Scriptural Account:
Genesis 19:1-3 states, "Now the two angels arrived at Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gateway of the city. When Lot saw them, he got up to meet them and bowed with his face to the ground. 'My lords,' he said, 'please turn aside into the house of your servant to spend the night and wash your feet. Then you can rise early and go on your way.' 'No,' they answered, 'we will spend the night in the square.' But Lot insisted so strongly that they followed him into his house. He prepared a feast for them and baked unleavened bread, and they ate."

Hospitality and Righteousness:
Lot's actions demonstrate the ancient Near Eastern custom of hospitality, which was a significant cultural and moral obligation. By welcoming the angels, Lot exemplifies righteousness and a willingness to protect his guests, even at great personal risk. His insistence on bringing the angels into his home highlights his awareness of the dangers present in Sodom and his desire to shield them from harm.

Moral Corruption of Sodom:
The narrative quickly shifts to the moral depravity of Sodom. Genesis 19:4-5 recounts, "Before they had gone to bed, all the men of the city of Sodom, both young and old, surrounded the house. They called out to Lot, 'Where are the men who came to you tonight? Send them out to us so we can have relations with them!'" This demand underscores the extent of Sodom's wickedness and the societal acceptance of grievous sin.

Lot's Dilemma and Protection:
Lot's response to the men of Sodom reveals his internal conflict and his commitment to protecting his guests. In Genesis 19:6-8 , Lot steps outside to address the mob, saying, "Please, my brothers, do not do such a wicked thing. Look, I have two daughters who have never slept with a man. Let me bring them to you, and you can do to them as you please. But do not do anything to these men, for they have come under the protection of my roof." Lot's offer, while troubling, reflects the cultural imperative to protect guests at all costs, even over his own family.

Divine Intervention:
The angels intervene to protect Lot and his household. Genesis 19:10-11 describes, "But the men inside reached out, pulled Lot into the house with them, and shut the door. And they struck with blindness the men at the entrance, both young and old, so that they wearied themselves trying to find the door." This divine intervention not only saves Lot and his family but also serves as a prelude to the impending judgment on Sodom.

Theological Implications:
The account of Lot welcoming the angels is rich with theological significance. It highlights the themes of divine judgment and mercy, the importance of righteousness in a corrupt world, and the protective power of God over His faithful. Lot's actions, though imperfect, demonstrate a commitment to righteousness and hospitality, setting him apart from the wickedness of Sodom. The narrative serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the necessity of living a life that honors God amidst moral decay.