Topical Bible: Intercession: Additional Instances of in Behalf of Sodom

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Intercession, the act of intervening or mediating on behalf of another, is a significant theme throughout the Bible. One of the most notable instances of intercession is found in the narrative of Sodom and Gomorrah, where Abraham pleads with God to spare the city of Sodom. This account is a profound example of intercessory prayer and highlights the compassionate and righteous character of Abraham.

Genesis 18:16-33
The primary account of intercession for Sodom is found in Genesis 18:16-33. After the Lord reveals to Abraham His intention to investigate the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham approaches God with a bold plea. He begins by asking, "Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked?" (Genesis 18:23). Abraham's intercession is marked by a series of petitions, where he negotiates with God, asking if He would spare the city for the sake of fifty righteous people, then forty-five, forty, thirty, twenty, and finally ten. Each time, the Lord agrees to spare the city if that number of righteous individuals can be found. This dialogue demonstrates Abraham's deep concern for the righteous and his belief in God's justice and mercy.

Genesis 19:29
While the destruction of Sodom ultimately occurs due to the lack of ten righteous individuals, Genesis 19:29 provides an additional insight into the power of intercession. The verse states, "So when God destroyed the cities of the plain, He remembered Abraham, and He brought Lot out of the catastrophe that destroyed the cities where Lot had lived" . This verse underscores that Abraham's intercession had a tangible effect, as God remembered Abraham and delivered Lot, Abraham's nephew, from the impending judgment. It highlights the personal nature of intercession and its potential to influence divine action.

Theological Implications
The intercession for Sodom is a profound illustration of the relationship between divine justice and mercy. Abraham's dialogue with God reveals a God who is willing to listen and respond to the prayers of His people. It also emphasizes the importance of righteousness and the impact that even a small number of righteous individuals can have on a community. Abraham's role as an intercessor prefigures the ultimate intercessor, Jesus Christ, who mediates on behalf of humanity.

Lessons for Believers
For believers, the account of Abraham's intercession for Sodom serves as an encouragement to engage in intercessory prayer. It demonstrates that God values the prayers of the righteous and that such prayers can have significant outcomes. It also challenges believers to cultivate a heart of compassion and concern for others, seeking God's mercy and intervention in the lives of those who are lost or facing judgment.

In summary, the intercession for Sodom is a powerful testament to the efficacy of prayer and the character of God as both just and merciful. It calls believers to stand in the gap for others, trusting in God's willingness to hear and respond to their petitions.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 18:23-32
And Abraham drew near, and said, Will you also destroy the righteous with the wicked?
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