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Genesis 19:1
Verse
Context
Lot Welcomes the Angels
1Now the two angels arrived at Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gateway of the city. When Lot saw them, he got up to meet them, bowed facedown, 2and said, “My lords, please turn aside into the house of your servant; wash your feet and spend the night. Then you can rise early and go on your way.” “No,” they answered, “we will spend the night in the square.”
Sermons
Alan Redpath
J. Vernon McGee
Leonard Ravenhill
William Fitch
S. Lewis Johnson
J.C. RyleSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Two angels - The two referred to Gen 18:22. Sat in the gate - Probably, in order to prevent unwary travelers from being entrapped by his wicked townsmen, he waited at the gate of the city to bring the strangers he might meet with to his own house, as well as to transact his own business. Or, as the gate was the place of judgment, he might have been sitting there as magistrate to hear and determine disputes. Bowed himself - Not through religious reverence, for he did not know the quality of his guests; but through the customary form of civility. See on verses Gen 18:3-5 (note) of the preceding chapter.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And there came two angels to Sodom at even,.... Or "the two angels" (h), the two men who were angels in the likeness of men, that had been with Abraham in the heat of the day at Hebron, on the evening of the same day came to Sodom: and Lot sat in the gate of Sodom: not as a civil magistrate to try causes there, being appointed a judge over them, as Jarchi relates; yea, the Jews say (i): that that day five judges were appointed by the men of Sodom, and Lot was the chief of them; but this is not likely, and seems to be contradicted, Gen 19:9; but he sat there to observe strangers that might pass by, and invite them into his house, and that they might not fall into the hands of the wicked Sodomites, who might abuse them; this being a time when not only travellers would be glad to put up and take refreshment, but his wicked neighbours lay in wait for them to satisfy their lusts on them: he had learnt this hospitality from Abraham: and Lot seeing them, rose up to meet them: he arose from his seat and went forward to meet them, which showed his readiness and heartiness to receive them: and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground; not in a religious way, as paying worship to angels, for as yet he did not know them to be such, and if he had, would not have given them divine adoration; but in a civil way, as was the custom of the eastern countries to bow very low in their civil respects to men, especially to great personages; and such Lot took these to be by their goodly looks and by their dress, as appears by his salutation of them in Gen 19:2. (h) "duo illi angeli", Tigurine version, Cocceius; so Ar. "duobus illis angelis", Junius & Tremellius, Piscator. (i) Bereshit Rabba, sect. 50. fol. 44. 4.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
These angels, it is likely, were two of the three that had just before been with Abraham, the two created angels that were sent to execute God's purpose concerning Sodom. Observe here, 1. There was but one good man in Sodom, and these heavenly messengers soon found him out. Wherever we are, we should enquire out those of the place that live in the fear of God, and should choose to associate ourselves with them. Mat 10:11, Enquire who is worthy, and there abide. Those of the same country, when they are in a foreign country, love to be together. 2. Lot sufficiently distinguished himself from the rest of his neighbours, at this time, which plainly set a mark upon him. He that did not act like the rest must not fare like the rest. (1.) Lot sat in the gate of Sodom at even. When the rest, it is likely, were tippling and drinking, he sat alone, waiting for an opportunity to do good. (2.) He was extremely respectful to men whose mien and aspect were sober and serious, though they did not come in state. He bowed himself to the ground, when he met them, as if, upon the first view, he discerned something divine in them. (3.) He was hospitable, and very free and generous in his invitations and entertainments. He courted these strangers to his house, and to the best accommodations he had, and gave them all the evidences that he could of his sincerity; for, [1.] When the angels, to try whether he was hearty in the invitation, declined the acceptance of it, at first (which is the common usage of modesty, and no reproach at all to truth and honesty), their refusal did not make him more importunate; for he pressed upon them greatly (Gen 19:3), partly because he would be no means have them to expose themselves to the inconveniences and perils of lodging in the street of Sodom, and partly because he was desirous of their company and converse. He had not seen two such honest faces in Sodom this great while. Note, Those that live in bad places should know how to value the society of those that are wise and good, and earnestly desire it. [2.] When the angels accepted his invitation, he treated them nobly; he made a feast for them, and thought it well-bestowed on such guests. Note, Good people should be (with prudence) generous people.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
19:1-38 The Canaanites were an evil, corrupting people. God judged their morally bankrupt civilization and warned others against becoming like them. It was difficult to get Lot and his family out of Sodom; it was more difficult to get Sodom out of Lot and his family. This chapter helped later Israelites to understand the moral and spiritual threat of the peoples living in and around the Promised Land, such as the Canaanites and Lot’s descendants, the Moabites and the Ammonites (see Num 22–25; Deut 23:3-6; Josh 24:9; Judg 10:7-9; 11:4-5; 1 Sam 10:27; 1 Kgs 11:1-3; 2 Kgs 24:2). 19:1-14 The two angels who were with the Lord at Mamre (cp. 18:2, 22) visited Sodom reluctantly, knowing what kind of people lived there. Despite Lot’s hospitality, they preferred lodging in the square to entering Lot’s house. 19:1 The two angels also first appeared to Abraham as men (18:2). • Lot was no longer living in tents next to Sodom (13:12)—he had become a citizen and leader in Sodom, sitting there at the entrance of the city. Community leaders (elders) usually congregated in the gates, where legal and business transactions were publicly finalized (cp. 23:18; Job 29:7, 12-17). As a righteous man (2 Pet 2:7-8), Lot tried to modify the townspeople’s wickedness by giving advice on good living (cp. Gen 19:9). Although he denounced gross evil, Lot preferred Sodom’s sumptuous lifestyle to life in the hills (cp. 13:10-11), where there was clean living but no “good life.” As long as the Lord left Lot and his family alone in Sodom, he lived comfortably there and kept his personal belief in God; but finally, he could not hold to both. Sodom would have destroyed Lot if the Lord had not destroyed Sodom. • This account showed Israel that God is the righteous judge of the whole earth (18:25) who will judge evildoers with justice and equity. In wicked societies, moral and ethical failures lead to social injustice.
Genesis 19:1
Lot Welcomes the Angels
1Now the two angels arrived at Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gateway of the city. When Lot saw them, he got up to meet them, bowed facedown, 2and said, “My lords, please turn aside into the house of your servant; wash your feet and spend the night. Then you can rise early and go on your way.” “No,” they answered, “we will spend the night in the square.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(1 Peter - Part 21): As Strangers & Pilgrims, Abstain From Fleshly Lusts
By A.W. Tozer23K18:33PilgrimsGEN 19:1EXO 2:22PSA 84:5HEB 11:131PE 2:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that as Christians, we are pilgrims journeying home and our only real enemies are within us. God has changed the external world and protected his anointed ones, but we still face temptations that can destroy our souls. The preacher gives an example of two Christians, one who gets involved in worldly things and loses their character as a stranger, while the other remains separated from the ways of the world. The sermon also highlights the importance of Christians being both strangers and pilgrims, abstaining from fleshly lusts that war against the soul. The preacher references Bible verses, such as 1 Peter 2:11, to support these teachings.
Pt 5 the Corruption of the Leaven
By Alan Redpath3.7K41:36LeavenGEN 19:1JDG 6:191SA 1:24MAT 13:331CO 5:6In this sermon, the preacher discusses the parable of the three measures of meal. He explains that the parable represents fellowship with God in service, which can be spoiled by the intrusion of corruption. The preacher emphasizes that the Lord requires complete dedication in service based on the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. He also mentions that this parable is one of the four parables spoken by Jesus to the crowd, focusing on the outward appearance of the Kingdom of Heaven.
(Genesis) Genesis 19:1-5
By J. Vernon McGee2.8K06:58GenesisGEN 19:1GEN 19:12In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Lot in chapter 19 of the Bible. Two angels visit Lot in Sodom and warn him of the impending judgment. Lot leaves Sodom with his wife and two daughters, but his wife turns into a pillar of salt. The preacher emphasizes that Lot, despite being a righteous man, made a tragic mistake by moving to Sodom and losing his family and influence. The sermon also highlights the dangerous and sinful nature of Sodom and Gomorrah, drawing parallels to the present day.
I Am Thy Strength and Shield - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill2.4K1:08:40Provision Of GodGEN 17:1GEN 18:1GEN 18:26GEN 19:1MAT 5:48In this sermon, the preacher describes a scene of immorality and sin in the world, with prostitutes and drug users. However, he emphasizes that these things do not move or concern us as believers. He then references the story of Abraham and how God promised him the land and title deed, highlighting that God's promises are secure and cannot be taken away. The preacher also quotes a friend who expressed concern about the things he hadn't done for God, rather than the things he had done. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging listeners not to plead ignorance or laziness, but to have compassion and concern for others, even if they are our own relatives.
John 17
By William Fitch1.6K39:18GEN 19:1In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of the corruption and immorality that exists in the world, including the entertainment industry. He highlights the fact that movies and media that promote family values and ideals do not perform well at the box office because people are more interested in and attracted to scandalous and immoral content. The speaker emphasizes the importance of sanctification and purity within the church, as Jesus prayed for his followers to be sanctified through the truth. He also discusses the responsibility of the church to be a light in the world and to not be influenced by the corrupt desires of the world. The sermon references biblical teachings, such as Jesus' command to not love the world and the apostolic council's instructions to the church, to support these points.
(Genesis) 34 - Sodom, Lot and the Harvest of Sowing to the Flesh
By S. Lewis Johnson1.5K54:35SodomGEN 19:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Lot and his family in the city of Sodom. The preacher emphasizes the grace and mercy of God towards Lot, as he is warned by angels about the impending destruction of the city. Lot is urged to gather his family and leave the city, but his sons-in-law do not take him seriously. Lot's wife, however, turns back and becomes a pillar of salt, symbolizing the danger of loving worldly things more than the Lord. The preacher also highlights the importance of not turning away from the Gospel and following the Lord wholeheartedly.
Remember Lot
By J.C. Ryle1.2K55:08GEN 19:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Lot and his wife from the book of Luke. The sermon is divided into four points: what Lot was himself, what the text tells us about him, the reasons for his lingering, and the consequences of his actions. The preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering Lot's wife as a warning to all believers. He also highlights the connection between Lot's choices and the negative impact it had on his family and the world. The sermon concludes with a reminder that believers should not linger in unprofitable and sinful ways.
The 2013 National Religious Broadcasters Sunday - Tony Evans
By From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons33836:49RadioGEN 19:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that this is not a time for ordinary sermons and churches, but a time for the church to rise up and make a difference in a world that is falling apart. He urges the church to be politically engaged, but reminds them that politics is not the kingdom of God. The preacher highlights the importance of the church having the keys to the kingdom, which gives them the authority to overrule and make a difference in history. He concludes by stating that whatever the church binds on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever they loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
From Creation to the Death of Isaac
By Flavius Josephus0GEN 17:9GEN 18:1GEN 19:1GEN 21:1GEN 22:1Flavius Josephus recounts the stories of Abraham, Lot, and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham, a righteous man, shows hospitality to angels and intercedes for the Sodomites. Lot, his nephew, is saved from the destruction of Sodom. Abraham's faith is tested when he is asked to sacrifice his son Isaac. The lineage of Abraham, including the birth of Ishmael and Isaac, is detailed, explaining the origin of circumcision among the Jews and Arabs.
Through the Bible - Genesis 19-20
By Chuck Smith0God's JusticeMoral IntegrityGEN 19:1Chuck Smith discusses the destruction of Sodom and the importance of God's justice in judgment, emphasizing Abraham's intercession for the city and God's fairness in not punishing the righteous alongside the wicked. He highlights the moral decline of Lot, who, despite being called righteous, was influenced by the corruption of Sodom, ultimately losing his family to its evils. The sermon also draws parallels between Lot's deliverance and the church's future deliverance from impending judgment, underscoring the need for believers to remain steadfast in their faith amidst societal pressures. Smith warns against the dangers of compromising one's morals and the consequences of living in a corrupt society, while also reflecting on Abraham's imperfect faith and God's grace. The message concludes with a reminder of the importance of setting a strong spiritual example for future generations.
Broken Glimpses
By F.W. Grant0GEN 19:1F.W. Grant preaches on the spiritual experience of fleeting glimpses of the Lord, emphasizing the struggle to retain these moments of divine presence and the importance of a life of faith. Through the story of Lot in Sodom and the two at Emmaus, he highlights the consequences of failing in faith and the need to prioritize our spiritual associations to maintain communion with God. Grant challenges listeners to reflect on the responsibility they hold in allowing distractions to hinder their relationship with the Lord and emphasizes the significance of yielding to God's authority to overcome these obstacles.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Two angels - The two referred to Gen 18:22. Sat in the gate - Probably, in order to prevent unwary travelers from being entrapped by his wicked townsmen, he waited at the gate of the city to bring the strangers he might meet with to his own house, as well as to transact his own business. Or, as the gate was the place of judgment, he might have been sitting there as magistrate to hear and determine disputes. Bowed himself - Not through religious reverence, for he did not know the quality of his guests; but through the customary form of civility. See on verses Gen 18:3-5 (note) of the preceding chapter.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And there came two angels to Sodom at even,.... Or "the two angels" (h), the two men who were angels in the likeness of men, that had been with Abraham in the heat of the day at Hebron, on the evening of the same day came to Sodom: and Lot sat in the gate of Sodom: not as a civil magistrate to try causes there, being appointed a judge over them, as Jarchi relates; yea, the Jews say (i): that that day five judges were appointed by the men of Sodom, and Lot was the chief of them; but this is not likely, and seems to be contradicted, Gen 19:9; but he sat there to observe strangers that might pass by, and invite them into his house, and that they might not fall into the hands of the wicked Sodomites, who might abuse them; this being a time when not only travellers would be glad to put up and take refreshment, but his wicked neighbours lay in wait for them to satisfy their lusts on them: he had learnt this hospitality from Abraham: and Lot seeing them, rose up to meet them: he arose from his seat and went forward to meet them, which showed his readiness and heartiness to receive them: and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground; not in a religious way, as paying worship to angels, for as yet he did not know them to be such, and if he had, would not have given them divine adoration; but in a civil way, as was the custom of the eastern countries to bow very low in their civil respects to men, especially to great personages; and such Lot took these to be by their goodly looks and by their dress, as appears by his salutation of them in Gen 19:2. (h) "duo illi angeli", Tigurine version, Cocceius; so Ar. "duobus illis angelis", Junius & Tremellius, Piscator. (i) Bereshit Rabba, sect. 50. fol. 44. 4.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
These angels, it is likely, were two of the three that had just before been with Abraham, the two created angels that were sent to execute God's purpose concerning Sodom. Observe here, 1. There was but one good man in Sodom, and these heavenly messengers soon found him out. Wherever we are, we should enquire out those of the place that live in the fear of God, and should choose to associate ourselves with them. Mat 10:11, Enquire who is worthy, and there abide. Those of the same country, when they are in a foreign country, love to be together. 2. Lot sufficiently distinguished himself from the rest of his neighbours, at this time, which plainly set a mark upon him. He that did not act like the rest must not fare like the rest. (1.) Lot sat in the gate of Sodom at even. When the rest, it is likely, were tippling and drinking, he sat alone, waiting for an opportunity to do good. (2.) He was extremely respectful to men whose mien and aspect were sober and serious, though they did not come in state. He bowed himself to the ground, when he met them, as if, upon the first view, he discerned something divine in them. (3.) He was hospitable, and very free and generous in his invitations and entertainments. He courted these strangers to his house, and to the best accommodations he had, and gave them all the evidences that he could of his sincerity; for, [1.] When the angels, to try whether he was hearty in the invitation, declined the acceptance of it, at first (which is the common usage of modesty, and no reproach at all to truth and honesty), their refusal did not make him more importunate; for he pressed upon them greatly (Gen 19:3), partly because he would be no means have them to expose themselves to the inconveniences and perils of lodging in the street of Sodom, and partly because he was desirous of their company and converse. He had not seen two such honest faces in Sodom this great while. Note, Those that live in bad places should know how to value the society of those that are wise and good, and earnestly desire it. [2.] When the angels accepted his invitation, he treated them nobly; he made a feast for them, and thought it well-bestowed on such guests. Note, Good people should be (with prudence) generous people.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
19:1-38 The Canaanites were an evil, corrupting people. God judged their morally bankrupt civilization and warned others against becoming like them. It was difficult to get Lot and his family out of Sodom; it was more difficult to get Sodom out of Lot and his family. This chapter helped later Israelites to understand the moral and spiritual threat of the peoples living in and around the Promised Land, such as the Canaanites and Lot’s descendants, the Moabites and the Ammonites (see Num 22–25; Deut 23:3-6; Josh 24:9; Judg 10:7-9; 11:4-5; 1 Sam 10:27; 1 Kgs 11:1-3; 2 Kgs 24:2). 19:1-14 The two angels who were with the Lord at Mamre (cp. 18:2, 22) visited Sodom reluctantly, knowing what kind of people lived there. Despite Lot’s hospitality, they preferred lodging in the square to entering Lot’s house. 19:1 The two angels also first appeared to Abraham as men (18:2). • Lot was no longer living in tents next to Sodom (13:12)—he had become a citizen and leader in Sodom, sitting there at the entrance of the city. Community leaders (elders) usually congregated in the gates, where legal and business transactions were publicly finalized (cp. 23:18; Job 29:7, 12-17). As a righteous man (2 Pet 2:7-8), Lot tried to modify the townspeople’s wickedness by giving advice on good living (cp. Gen 19:9). Although he denounced gross evil, Lot preferred Sodom’s sumptuous lifestyle to life in the hills (cp. 13:10-11), where there was clean living but no “good life.” As long as the Lord left Lot and his family alone in Sodom, he lived comfortably there and kept his personal belief in God; but finally, he could not hold to both. Sodom would have destroyed Lot if the Lord had not destroyed Sodom. • This account showed Israel that God is the righteous judge of the whole earth (18:25) who will judge evildoers with justice and equity. In wicked societies, moral and ethical failures lead to social injustice.