Verses 23-33 - Here is the first solemn prayer upon record in the Bible; and it is prayer for the sparing of Sodom. Abrahamprayed earnestly that Sodo might be spared, if but a few righteous persons should be found in it Come and learn from Abraham what compassion we should feel for sinners and how earnestly we should pray for them. We see here that the effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. Abraham indeed, failed in his request for the whole place, but Lot wa miraculously delivered. Be encouraged then to expect, by earnes prayer, the blessing of God upon your families, your friends, you neighbourhood. To this end you must not only pray, but you must liv like Abraham. He knew the Judge of all the earth would do right. He does not plead that the wicked may be spared for their own sake, or because it would be severe to destroy them, but for the sake of the righteous who might be found among them. And righteousness only can be made a plea before God. How then did Christ make intercession for transgressors? Not by blaming the Divinelaw, nor by alleging aught in extenuation or excuse of human guilt; but by pleading HIS OWN obedienc unto death __________________________________________________________________
