In the last half of Genesis chapter 18 we see a reminder of the Lord's love for Abraham expressed in His covenant promises to him and God's explaining His purposes to him. Abraham in turn expresses his love for God in his regard for the Lord's honor and compassion even in judgment. Abraham reflects the Lord's kindness by negotiating with God to spare the city of Sodom, where his nephew Lot lives. There is a back-and-forth dialog between the Lord and Abraham as he tests the limits of God's mercy. The Lord spared Lot from the righteous judgment on Sodom, but it is clear from later revelation that the city had a deep and abiding influence on Lot and his family even though he "felt his righteous soul tormented day after day by their lawless deeds" (2 Peter 2:8). The Lord is rescuing His people through the gospel from this wicked world, and we are grateful that His mercy is extended to us.