Holly Bible - KJV with Concise Commentaries by Z Selam - HTML preview
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iniquity of Sodom was crying iniquity, that is, it was so very provoking that it even urged God to punish.
(2.) The enquiry he would make upon this evidence: I will go down now and see, Ge 18:21. Not as if there were any thing concerning which God is in doubt, or in the dark; but he is pleased thus to express himself after the manner of men,
[1.] To show the incontestable equity of all his judicial proceedings. Men are apt to suggest that his way is not equal; but let them know that his judgments are the result of an eternal counsel, and are never rash or sudden resolves. He never punishes upon report, or common fame, or the information of others, but upon his own certain and infallible knowledge.
[2.] To give example to magistrates, and those in authority, with the utmost care and diligence to enquire into the merits of a cause, before they give judgment upon it.
[3.] Perhaps the decree is here spoken of as not yet peremptory, that room and encouragement might be given to Abraham to make intercession for them. Thus God looked if there were any to intercede, Isa 59:16.
21 I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether
according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.
22 And the men turned their faces from thence, and went toward
Sodom: but Abraham stood yet before the Lord.
23 And Abraham drew near, and said, Wilt thou also destroy the
righteous with the wicked ?
The scene described is full of interest and instruction— showing in an unmistakable manner the efficacy of prayer and intercession. (See also Pr 15:8; Jas 5:16). Abraham reasoned justly as to the rectitude of the divine procedure (Ro 3:5, 6), and many guilty cities and nations have been spared on account of God's people (Mt 5:13; 24:22).