Genesis - Part 32

The negotiator

Genesis Chapter 18:16-33

Meeting Purpose

To discuss Genesis 18:16-33, focusing on Abraham's intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah.

Key Takeaways

-             God's justice is measured and favors mercy; He investigates thoroughly before judgment

-             Abraham's negotiation with God demonstrates the power of intercessory prayer

-             Wrestling with God in faith can lead to deeper understanding and closeness with Him

-             God welcomes dialogue, questions, and even negotiation from His people

Topics

Biblical Context and Geography

-             Meeting discusses Genesis 18:16-33

-             Sodom located ~20 miles southeast of Hebron

-             Hebron at 3,000 ft elevation; Sodom near Dead Sea (1,300 ft below sea level)

-             Some scholars believe Dead Sea's southern basin now covers Sodom

God's Self-Dialogue and Decision

-             Echoes Genesis 1:26 ("let us make man in our image")

-             God reveals His thoughts to Moses for this account

-             Four key points in God's decision:

-             Not hide plans from Abraham

-             Abraham to become great nation

-             All nations blessed through Abraham

-             Abraham chosen to direct his household in God's ways

The Outcry Against Sodom and Gomorrah

-             God declares the outcry is "so great" and sins "so grievous"

-             Possible sources of outcry:

   1. God's holy justice

   2. Victims in Sodom and Gomorrah

   3. Creation itself (similar to Romans 8:19-22)

-             God's personal involvement emphasized

Abraham's Intercession

-             Abraham negotiates from 50 righteous people down to 10

-             Demonstrates Abraham's growing boldness and negotiation skills

-             Reveals God's patience and willingness to engage in dialogue

Righteousness in the Old Testament

-             Discussion on what constitutes righteousness

-             Abraham's faith counted as righteousness (Hebrews 11)

-             Righteousness through faith in God's promises, even before Christ

Biblical Examples of Wrestling with God

-             Jacob wrestling with God/angel

-             Moses interceding for Israel

-             Gideon testing God with fleece

-             Syrophoenician woman challenging Jesus

-             Jesus in Gethsemane and on the cross

-             Jonah running from God's call

Next Steps

-             Reflect on personal prayer life and willingness to engage deeply with God

-             Study other biblical examples of individuals wrestling with God in faith

-             Consider how to be a righteous influence in society (Matthew 5:16)

-             Prepare for next week's study on Paul's conversion and ministry

1. God’s Justice is Measured and Fair

God does not act rashly or without understanding; He investigates and ensures that justice is served rightly (v. 21).

Abraham’s conversation affirms that God does not punish the righteous with the wicked, emphasizing His fairness.

We can trust that God’s judgments are not arbitrary but are deeply rooted in justice and mercy.

2. God’s Desire for Righteousness in Society

The fate of Sodom hinged on the presence of righteous individuals, highlighting the importance of godly influence in a culture.

This should challenge believers to live righteously and be a light in dark places (Matthew 5:16).

3. We Can Wrestle with God in Faith

Like Abraham, others in Scripture (Jacob, Moses, Gideon, Habakkuk, even Jesus) have wrestled with God’s plans.

God allows His people to bring their doubts, fears, and frustrations to Him.

Wrestling with God can lead to deeper faith and understanding.

4. God Invites Dialogue and Intercession

Abraham’s conversation with God shows that God welcomes our questions, concerns, and even negotiations.

Like Abraham, we are encouraged to intercede for others, bringing their needs before God in prayer.

This aligns with Hebrews 4:16, where we are told to approach God’s throne of grace with confidence.