Genesis 18-19: As the beginnings of the nation of Israel continue, the account of Abraham again connects to Lot. After an initial encounter between the Lord and Sarah, Abraham intercedes for Sodom. First the Lord again offers his promise of a son to Abraham and Sarah. Sarah is struggling to believe this, and laughs to herself. The Lord confronts Abraham about her laughing, declaring "Is anything to extraordinary for the Lord?" The discussion shifts to Sodom, as Abraham walks away with the guests. The Lord tells Abraham, Sodom is going to be destroyed, if it is as wicked as he suspects. For the sake of the righteous in the city, Abraham pleads for God not to destroy the city - if, finally, there are just 10 righteous persons. The account shifts now to the city of Sodom and Lot and his family. As the guests come to tangibly show the mercy of God to Lot and his family, they struggle to leave and finally demonstrate that Sodom is still in them, though they have left Sodom. This section reminds us again that God has spoken, and because he has spoken, we must hear him and obey his words or face the inevitable judgment that accompanies rejection. 

Genesis is a book of new beginnings. It offers the origins of the universe, the atmosphere, the human race, language, culture, marriage, language, order, time, worship, and a chosen people. Genesis focuses on God as creator and sustainer of all things. Genesis introduces the patriarchs of Israel and the promises made to them by God. Genesis demonstrates throughout that God has spoken, spoken in creation, spoken in blessing humanity, spoken even in the curses and judgment because of sin and evil of humanity. Genesis is focused on the communication of God with humanity, communication that presents the truths of God, about himself and his world he created.