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Part 1
Abraham's Prayer for Sodom and Gomorrah
Abraham's prayer for Sodom and Gomorrah is recorded in Genesis 18:16-33. The story begins when three visitors, who were actually angels, come to Abraham's tent to deliver a message about the impending destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah due to their great wickedness.
Abraham, aware of his nephew Lot living in Sodom, is concerned for the righteous people living there and begins to intercede with God on their behalf. He engages in a bold and humble prayer, seeking God's mercy and justice for the cities:
"Suppose there are fifty righteous within the city. Will you then sweep away the place and not spare it for the fifty righteous who are in it? Far be it from you to do such a thing, to put the righteous to death with the wicked, so that the righteous fare as the wicked! Far be that from you! Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?" (Genesis 18:24-25).
Abraham continues to bargain with God, asking if he would spare the cities if there were forty-five, forty, thirty, twenty, or even ten righteous people found there. Each time, God responds favorably to Abraham's request, promising not to destroy the cities if a certain number of righteous people are found.
Ultimately, it is revealed that there were not even ten righteous people in Sodom, and the cities are destroyed, except for Lot and his family, whom the angels rescue before the destruction.
Abraham's prayer for Sodom and Gomorrah demonstrates his compassion and concern for others, as well as his boldness in approaching God with intercession. It also reveals God's willingness to listen to the prayers of his faithful servants and consider their requests, even in matters of judgment.
