Genesis 19:12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

This illustrates the manner in which the upright individual is repaid for his unusual devotion, as well as their desire to offer him salvation alongside those dear to him. They assert that if he has any connections in this city, if he is involved with anyone, or if he knows anyone who is free from the wickedness of the inhabitants, he must "bring out of this place" and this land all his kin, "for we will destroy this place" (Genesis 19:13).

The angels revealed their identity to Lot, explaining that they had been dispatched by God to bring destruction upon the city and its surroundings. This was prompted by the outcry from the sins of Sodom, which had ascended to the Lord. Humanity's very essence, marred by acts of unnatural immorality, cries out for divine retribution. Consequently, the angels declared that the Lord had sent them to annihilate all those who defy their inherent nature and provoke the wrath of the Creator, who established the laws of nature and its boundaries. He cannot tolerate the violence inflicted upon His creation or the transgression and corruption of the divine order He has instituted. The angels instructed Lot to gather his relatives and friends and flee before the impending judgement fell upon the wicked city.

By extending His grace to Lot, God simultaneously allows the final remnants of His goodness to be bestowed upon a nation that does not deserve it, while also issuing the last warning regarding the need for His judgment upon that nation (Gen. 19: 13). This moment of judgment is delayed only until the full number of the appointed and marked is reached, who, similar to Lot, must escape from the land of ruin before its demise.