God had determined that the city of Sodom was to be destroyed because of its wickedness. Abraham, in an act of boldness, attempted to reason with God. He protested, "Far be it from you to make the innocent die with the guilty." Then, as we heard, he went on to bargain with God, trying to convince Him that He should spare the city even if He could find only ten innocent people. As a matter of record, there were not even ten innocent people in Sodom, and so the city was destroyed.

The scene between God and Abraham is painted in very human (anthropomorphic) tones. This picturesque presentation has a point. No, God does not condemn the innocent with the guilty. Yes, good people can somehow save the guilty.

When we hear about terribly evil people, the rapist, the dope peddler, the child abuser, we can do one of two things. We can condemn them and lament their conduct. Or we can do something to help them repent. We can offer prayers, backed up by goodness, for the sake of others in a generous spirit with a willingness to leave judgement to God. God indicated to Abraham that He was willing to spare an entire city because of only ten innocent people. Will we be counted among those who pray earnestly for the salvation of the world?