“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.”
This verse is part of the narrative of Abraham’s encounter with three visitors, who are revealed to be angels of the Lord. Prior to this verse, the Lord had promised Abraham and Sarah that they would have a son in their old age. Sarah laughed in disbelief, but the Lord affirmed that nothing is too hard for Him.
In verse 20, the Lord shares His intention to investigate the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah. In verse 21, the Lord declares that He will personally go down and assess whether the cities’ actions align with the outcry that has reached Him. He states, “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.”
This verse reveals several important aspects about God’s character and His interaction with humanity:
- God’s Omniscience: The verse begins with the phrase, “I will go down now, and see.” This language is anthropomorphic, as if God were physically going to the location to investigate. However, it is important to note that God is all-knowing, and nothing is hidden from Him. The phrase “and if not, I will know” emphasizes His complete knowledge and understanding of all things. God is not limited by human perception or information; He already knows the truth.
- God’s Righteous Judgment: The Lord states that He will determine whether the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah have acted in accordance with the outcry against them. This suggests that there has been great wickedness and injustice in these cities, and God intends to bring judgment accordingly. It demonstrates His commitment to justice and His willingness to intervene in human affairs when necessary.
- God’s Personal Involvement: The Lord’s statement, “I will go down now,” highlights His active engagement with humanity. It shows that God does not remain distant or disconnected from His creation. Instead, He involves Himself in the lives of individuals and communities. In this case, God personally investigates the situation in Sodom and Gomorrah before taking action.
Overall, Genesis 18:21 reveals God’s omniscience, His righteous judgment, and His personal involvement with humanity. It reminds us that God is fully aware of our actions, and He is just in His dealings. It also encourages us to approach God with reverence and humility, recognizing His wisdom and perfect knowledge.
