Today we will read chapters 18-20.After Abraham changed his name, performed the circumcision, as the symbol of drawing a line with the world, the idol and evilness, 3 angels came and brought him good news and bad news.The good news was that the much anticipated promise would be fulfilled and realized. They would soon experience the joy of being parents. The bad news was that the outcry of Sodom and Gomorrah was great and their sin was exceedingly grave. They had to face the imminent God’s judgment.
Chapter 18: Intercede for Sodom
1-19 Good news: the promised son will be born soon
20-33 Bad news: God will destroy 2 cities.
Chapter 19: Save Lot Sodom and Gomorrah destroyed
Chapter 20: Save Sarah Abraham was tested again and failed
When Abraham heard the news that Sodom and Gomorrah would be destroyed, he immediately interceded for them, because Lot lived there and Lot’s family was saved. But unfortunately they didn’t treasure the opportunity. Lot’s wife looked back and became the pillar of salt (the salt that lost its taste). Lot committed incest with his 2 daughters and bore the ancestors of Moabites and Ammon.
Abraham’s faith was tested again after the 2 cities were destroyed. He claimed Sarah as his sister for he was afraid of the possible trouble, which was partly true as she was his half sister. But he hid the more important relationship that she was also his wife. But God is merciful and faithful. After he confessed the truth, God blessed Abimelech through Abraham.
We can clearly see the difference between Abraham and Lot. Lot viewed material more important than family relationship (Gen 13), viewed enjoyment more important than God’s relationship. Abraham focused on the relationship with God, and with other people. He put God at the center of his life, set aside personal gain, forgave the people that hurt him. And God called him his friend.