Genesis 18:22

And the men turned their faces from thence, and went toward Sodom: but Abraham stood yet before the LORD.

And the men {H582} turned their faces {H6437} from thence, and went {H3212} toward Sodom {H5467}: but Abraham {H85} stood {H5975} yet {H5750} before {H6440} the LORD {H3068}.

The men turned away from there and went toward S'dom, but Avraham remained standing before ADONAI.

And the two men turned away and went toward Sodom, but Abraham remained standing before the LORD.

And the men turned from thence, and went toward Sodom: but Abraham stood yet before Jehovah.

Commentary

Genesis 18:22 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of Abraham and God's interaction concerning the fate of Sodom. After a divine visitation, the focus shifts from general conversation to a specific, intense dialogue between Abraham and the Lord Himself.

Context

This verse follows a profound encounter where the Lord, accompanied by two angels, appeared to Abraham near the oaks of Mamre. Abraham, unaware of their true identity at first, showed extraordinary hospitality. During this visit, the Lord reaffirmed the promise of a son to Sarah (Genesis 18:10). Crucially, before the "men" (the angels) departed towards Sodom, the Lord chose to reveal His intention to investigate and potentially destroy Sodom and Gomorrah due to their grievous sin (Genesis 18:20-21). Genesis 18:22 serves as the transition point, setting the stage for Abraham's remarkable intercession.

Key Themes

  • Abraham's Unique Relationship with God: The phrase "Abraham stood yet before the LORD" underscores the deep intimacy and privilege Abraham had with God. He was not merely a servant but a trusted friend with whom the Lord shared His plans, as hinted in Genesis 18:17.
  • The Posture of Intercession: This verse initiates the powerful scene of Abraham's fervent prayer for the righteous within Sodom. His continued presence before the Lord signifies a readiness to engage in a spiritual battle for the city's inhabitants, a model for intercessory prayer.
  • God's Justice and Mercy: While the angels proceed towards judgment, Abraham remains with the Lord, highlighting the tension between God's perfect justice, which demands accountability for sin, and His profound mercy, which offers grace and seeks for righteousness.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Abraham stood yet before the LORD" in Hebrew, 'ôd 'āmāḏ 'abrāhām lip̄nê yhwh, emphasizes a deliberate and sustained presence. The word 'āmāḏ' (stood) suggests not merely physical standing but a posture of readiness, attentiveness, and respectful engagement in a dialogue. It implies a willingness to remain in the divine presence, anticipating further communication or action. This is not a casual standing but a formal, purposeful posture before a sovereign King, yet with the familiarity of a trusted confidant.

Practical Application

Genesis 18:22 teaches us about the profound privilege and responsibility of prayer. Abraham's willingness to "stand before the LORD" models for us the importance of:

  • Persistence in Prayer: Abraham did not immediately leave but lingered, demonstrating a desire to continue the conversation with God.
  • Intercession for Others: This scene is a powerful example of how believers can and should intercede for the lost, the cities, and those facing judgment, much like Jeremiah 29:7 encourages seeking the welfare of the city.
  • Intimacy with God: It reminds us that God desires a close relationship with His people, one where He reveals His heart and invites us into His purposes, including His plans for justice and redemption.

This verse sets the stage for Abraham's courageous plea for Sodom, demonstrating the power of a righteous individual to stand in the gap for others.

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Cross-References

  • Genesis 19:1 (7 votes)

    ¶ And 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;

  • Psalms 106:23 (5 votes)

    Therefore he said that he would destroy them, had not Moses his chosen stood before him in the breach, to turn away his wrath, lest he should destroy [them].

  • Ezekiel 22:30 (5 votes)

    And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.

  • Acts 7:55 (5 votes)

    But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,

  • Jeremiah 18:20 (4 votes)

    Shall evil be recompensed for good? for they have digged a pit for my soul. Remember that I stood before thee to speak good for them, [and] to turn away thy wrath from them.

  • 1 Timothy 2:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men;

  • Jeremiah 15:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ Then said the LORD unto me, Though Moses and Samuel stood before me, [yet] my mind [could] not [be] toward this people: cast [them] out of my sight, and let them go forth.