Genesis 19:2Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

A noble, respected, and affluent host addresses unfamiliar travelers—strangers in their appearance and circumstances—by saying, “Enter into your servant's home and rest for the night.” He emphasizes the evening hour and invites them to find respite from the burdens of the day within his abode. Does he promise anything extraordinary? He says, “Wash your feet, worn from the journey, and rise in the morning to pursue your way.” He implores them for this kindness, expressing his heartfelt request. Yet, they replied, as it is said, “No, we will stay outside.”

The stark contrast between the wickedness of the Sodomites and the purity of Lot was evident; instead of transforming under the influence of a virtuous man residing among them and his encouraging words, they remained steadfast in their corrupt ways. Yet, Lot, surrounded by such a sinful society that brazenly engaged in immoral acts, managed to uphold his integrity and did not compromise his righteous life, akin to a flower blossoming amidst thorns. As expressed by the holy Apostle Peter, “by sight and hearing the righteous living in them, day by day the righteous soul is tormented by their lawless deeds” (2 Pet. 2:8). Truly remarkable is the virtue of one who, amidst corrupt surroundings, remains untarnished, and who, when surrounded by those guilty of fornication, retains his purity! It is easy to exhibit reverence among the reverent and innocence with the innocent (Psalm 17:26), but it is a true wonder to maintain goodness among the wicked, among the impure, and to be godly in a disorderly environment! If one embodies the spirit of Lot, let them be esteemed by us! Conversely, what a grave judgment awaits those who dwell amongst the righteous yet turn out to be sinful, who live in the company of the just yet reveal lawlessness, or who associate with the God-fearing but squander their lives in sinful debauchery despite being surrounded by virtuous examples. Will such individuals not share in the fate of the Sodomites, who failed to learn from the righteous Lot? They will share the destiny of Judas, who, having been with Christ and the Apostles, remained unrepentant and ultimately faced destruction.

Two angels, having separated from the third who stayed with Abraham, arrived at Sodom’s gates that same evening. Lot, who had previously dwelt with Abraham and learned from him about being a sojourner, was sitting at the city gates, looking to welcome any travelers into his home for the Lord’s sake and protect them from the malice and wickedness of the shameless and unrighteous Sodomites. As the two angels approached the city in human guise, Lot saw them, rose to meet them, and bowed before them, urging them to enter his house to rest until morning. However, they feigned a desire to stay in the town square. This reluctance was intended to draw out Lot’s genuine hospitality and love toward the visitors and simultaneously prepare him to receive greater mercy from God. The righteous man urged them persistently through prayer, and they eventually agreed to enter his dwelling, where he provided them with a meal.