Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionSodom, an ancient city mentioned in the Bible, is most famously known for its destruction due to the extreme wickedness of its inhabitants. The narrative of Sodom serves as a profound moral and theological lesson within the biblical text, illustrating the consequences of sin and the justice of God. Biblical Account The account of Sodom is primarily found in the Book of Genesis. Sodom, along with Gomorrah and other cities of the plain, was located in the region of the Jordan Valley. The cities were known for their prosperity and fertile land, yet they became infamous for their moral depravity. In Genesis 13:13, the Bible states, "Now the men of Sodom were wicked, sinning greatly against the LORD." This verse sets the stage for the events that follow, highlighting the city's reputation for sinfulness. Abraham's Intercession The narrative continues in Genesis 18, where God reveals to Abraham His intention to investigate the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham, concerned for the righteous who might reside in the city, intercedes on their behalf. In Genesis 18:23-24, Abraham asks, "Will You really sweep away the righteous with the wicked? What if there are fifty righteous people in the city?" God agrees to spare the city if fifty righteous individuals can be found, and this negotiation continues until the number is reduced to ten. However, even ten righteous people cannot be found in Sodom. The Visit of the Angels In Genesis 19, two angels visit Sodom and are met by Lot, Abraham's nephew, who insists they stay at his home. The men of Sodom, displaying their wickedness, surround Lot's house and demand to have relations with the visitors. Lot pleads with them, but they refuse to listen. The angels then strike the men with blindness and warn Lot to flee the city with his family. Destruction of Sodom The destruction of Sodom is described in Genesis 19:24-25: "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, destroying all the inhabitants of the cities and everything that grew on the ground." This divine judgment serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked sin and rebellion against God. Lot's Wife As Lot and his family flee, they are instructed not to look back. However, Lot's wife disobeys and looks back at the city, becoming a pillar of salt (Genesis 19:26). This act of disobedience underscores the seriousness of God's commands and the importance of complete trust and obedience. New Testament References The destruction of Sodom is referenced in the New Testament as a warning and example of divine judgment. In Luke 17:28-30, Jesus compares the days of Lot to the coming of the Son of Man, emphasizing the suddenness and totality of God's judgment. Similarly, 2 Peter 2:6 states, "He condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to destruction, reducing them to ashes as an example of what is coming on the ungodly." Moral and Theological Implications The account of Sodom serves as a powerful illustration of God's holiness and justice. It highlights the severity of sin and the necessity of righteousness. The narrative also emphasizes God's willingness to spare the righteous, as seen in His dialogue with Abraham, and His mercy in rescuing Lot and his family. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 19:1-29And there came two angels to Sodom at even; and Lot sat in the gate of Sodom: and Lot seeing them rose up to meet them; and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground; Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 29:23 Isaiah 13:19 Jeremiah 49:18 Jeremiah 50:40 Lamentations 4:6 Amos 4:11 Zephaniah 2:9 Matthew 10:15 Luke 17:29 Romans 9:29 2 Peter 2:6 Library "Destroyed for Lack of Knowledge" On the Sunday Called "Episozomenes," to those who had Come to ... The Cause and Cure of Earthquakes Joshua's Conquest. Book 4 Footnotes The Famine which Oppressed Them. The Sins of Communities Noted and Punished. On his Father'S Silence, Because of the Plague of Hail. Chapter xix On Justice and Goodness. Resources What was the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Abraham bargain with God in regard to Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18)? | GotQuestions.org What is the strange flesh in Jude 1:7? | GotQuestions.org Sodom: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sodom: Abraham's Intercession For Sodom: Destroyed on Account of the Wickedness of the People Sodom: King of, Joins Other Kings of the Nations Resisting the Invasion of Chedorlaomer Sodom: Situated on the Plain of the Jordan River Sodom: The Southeastern Limit of the Canaanites Sodom: Wickedness of the Inhabitants of Related Terms |
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