The term "obduracy" refers to a state of hardened heart or stubbornness, particularly in the context of resisting moral or spiritual truth. In the biblical narrative, the inhabitants of Sodom exemplify this condition through their persistent sinfulness and refusal to repent, despite ample opportunity and warning.

The city of Sodom, along with Gomorrah, is most famously associated with the account in Genesis 18-19. The narrative describes how the wickedness of Sodom had become so great that it prompted divine intervention. Genesis 18:20-21 states, "Then the LORD said, 'The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great. Their sin is so grievous that I will go down and see if their actions fully justify the outcry that has reached Me. If not, I will find out.'"

The obduracy of the Sodomites is further illustrated in Genesis 19, where two angels visit the city and are met with hostility and immoral intentions from the men of Sodom. Despite the presence of these divine messengers, the Sodomites persist in their depravity, demonstrating a hardened resistance to righteousness. 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, saying, 'Where are the men who came to you tonight? Send them out to us so we can have relations with them!'"

The biblical account underscores the severity of Sodom's sin and the resulting judgment. The city's destruction by fire and brimstone serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of obduracy. Genesis 19:24-25 records, "Then the LORD rained down sulfur and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the LORD out of the heavens. Thus He overthrew those cities and the entire plain, including all the inhabitants of the cities and everything that grew on the ground."

Throughout Scripture, Sodom is frequently referenced as a symbol of extreme moral corruption and divine judgment. In the New Testament, Jesus Himself uses Sodom as a warning against unrepentance. In Matthew 11:23-24 , He declares, "And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to heaven? No, you will be brought down to Hades. For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you."

The story of Sodom serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of obduracy. It highlights the importance of heeding divine warnings and turning away from sin. The Sodomites' refusal to repent, despite clear evidence of their wrongdoing, ultimately led to their destruction. This narrative encourages believers to maintain a soft heart, open to correction and transformation by God's truth.Genesis 19:9,14
And they said, Stand back. And they said again, This one fellow came in to sojourn, and he will needs be a judge: now will we deal worse with you, than with them. And they pressed sore on the man, even Lot, and came near to break the door.
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