The king of Sodom said to Abram, "Give me the people, but take the goods for yourself." The king of SodomThe identity of the king of Sodom is significant in this narrative. Historically, Sodom was one of the cities of the plain, known for its wickedness and eventual destruction by God. The king represents a worldly authority, often associated with moral corruption. In the Hebrew text, "Sodom" is linked to burning or scorched, symbolizing the spiritual desolation of the city. This encounter between Abram and the king of Sodom sets the stage for a contrast between divine blessing and earthly wealth. said to Abram
Abram, later known as Abraham, is a central figure in the Bible, representing faith and obedience to God. His interactions with the king of Sodom highlight his role as a man of integrity and divine favor. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) often implies a declaration or command, indicating the king's authoritative tone. However, Abram's response will demonstrate his allegiance to God over earthly rulers. Give me the people
The request for "the people" (נֶפֶשׁ, nephesh) reflects the king's desire for human resources, which were considered valuable assets in ancient times. The term "nephesh" can mean soul, life, or person, emphasizing the intrinsic value of human life. This request underscores the king's priorities, valuing human capital over material wealth, which contrasts with Abram's values. but take the goods for yourself
The offer to "take the goods" (רְכוּשׁ, rekush) reveals the king's willingness to part with material wealth. In the ancient Near East, spoils of war were a significant source of wealth, and the term "rekush" encompasses possessions, property, and goods. This phrase highlights the king's pragmatic approach, prioritizing the return of his people over the recovery of wealth. Abram's response to this offer will further illustrate his character and faith. Persons / Places / Events 1. Abram (Abraham)The central figure in this passage, Abram is a man of faith and the recipient of God's promises. He has just returned from a victorious battle to rescue his nephew Lot. 2. King of SodomThe ruler of the city of Sodom, who approaches Abram with a proposal after Abram's victory over the kings who captured Lot and the people of Sodom. 3. SodomA city known for its wickedness, which was involved in a conflict with other regional kings. The king of Sodom's request reflects the city's moral state. 4. The Battle of the KingsA significant event where Abram defeats a coalition of kings to rescue Lot, demonstrating his leadership and God's favor upon him. 5. LotAbram's nephew, who was living in Sodom and was taken captive during the battle. His rescue is a key element of the account. Teaching Points Integrity Over Material GainAbram's refusal to accept the goods from the king of Sodom demonstrates a commitment to integrity and reliance on God's provision rather than worldly wealth. Discernment in AlliancesThe interaction with the king of Sodom teaches the importance of discerning the character and intentions of those with whom we align ourselves. Faith in God's PromisesAbram's actions reflect a deep trust in God's promises, reminding believers to prioritize spiritual blessings over temporary material possessions. God's Sovereignty in VictoryThe victory over the kings and the subsequent events underscore God's sovereignty and faithfulness in delivering His people. Witness to the WorldAbram's decision serves as a testimony to the surrounding nations of God's power and the distinctiveness of His people. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Abram's response to the king of Sodom reflect his faith and trust in God? Consider how this can apply to decisions you face regarding material possessions. 2. In what ways does the account of Abram and the king of Sodom challenge you to evaluate your own alliances and partnerships? 3. How does Abram's refusal of the king's offer demonstrate integrity, and how can you apply this principle in your own life? 4. Compare Abram's actions in Genesis 14 with Saul's actions in 1 Samuel 15. What lessons can be learned about obedience and reliance on God? 5. How does this passage encourage you to be a witness to those around you, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness in your life? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 13This chapter provides context for Lot's choice to live in Sodom, setting the stage for the events of Genesis 14. Hebrews 7This New Testament passage references Melchizedek, who blesses Abram in Genesis 14, highlighting Abram's faith and God's provision. 1 Samuel 15The account of Saul's disobedience in keeping spoils of war contrasts with Abram's refusal of the king of Sodom's offer, emphasizing obedience to God over material gain. People Abram, Amalekites, Amorites, Amraphel, Aner, Arioch, Bela, Bera, Birsha, Chedorlaomer, Dan, Elam, Emites, Eshcol, Ham, Horites, Lot, Mamre, Melchisedec, Melchizedek, Rephaites, Seir, Shemeber, Shinab, Tamar, Tidal, Zoar, Zuzims, ZuzitesPlaces Admah, Ashteroth-karnaim, Bela, Damascus, Dan, Elam, Ellasar, El-paran, En-mishpat, Gomorrah, Ham, Hazazon-tamar, Kadesh-barnea, King's Valley, Oaks of Mamre, Salem, Salt Sea, Seir, Shaveh-kiriathaim, Shinar, Sodom, Valley of Shaveh, Valley of Siddim, Zeboiim, ZoarTopics Abram, Goods, Persons, Prisoners, Property, Sodom, Souls, Substance, ThyselfDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 14:21 7447 slavery, in OT Genesis 14:1-24 4224 cities of the plain Genesis 14:13-21 5077 Abraham, character Genesis 14:18-23 4055 heaven and earth Library An Example of Faith
'Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. So Abram departed, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureJerusalem
The first name of this city was Shalem, Genesis 14:18, Psalm 76:2, and it is still retained in the writing, however it is read Jerushalaim. "The name of that place is Jehovah-jireh. Abraham called the place Jireh; Shem called it Shalem. Saith God, If I shall call it Jireh, it will displease Shem the Just; if I shall call it Shalem, it will displease Abraham the Just. I will therefore put that name upon it which was put upon it by both, Jireh, Shalem,--Jerusalem."--"We do not, therefore, put Jod between …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Meditations for Household Piety.
1. If thou be called to the government of a family, thou must not hold it sufficient to serve God and live uprightly in thy own person, unless thou cause all under thy charge to do the same with thee. For the performance of this duty God was so well pleased with Abraham, that he would not hide from him his counsel: "For," saith God, "I know him that he will command his sons and his household after him that they keep the way of the Lord, to do righteousness and judgment, that the Lord may bring upon …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety Tithing
"Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine house, and prove Me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it" (Mal. 3:10). Down deep in the heart of every Christian there is undoubtedly the conviction that he ought to tithe. There is an uneasy feeling that this is a duty which has been neglected, or, if you prefer it, a privilege that has not been …
Arthur W. Pink—Tithing Bethphage
There is very frequent mention of this place in the Talmudists: and, certainly, a more careful comparison of the maps with those things which are said by them of the situation of this place is worthy to be made; when they place it in mount Olivet, these make it contiguous to the buildings of Jerusalem. I. In the place cited in the margin, the case "of a stubborn judge" (or elder) is handling. For when, by the prescript of the law, difficult matters, and such things as concerning which the lower councils …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest
SYRIA AT THE BEGINNING OF THE EGYPTIAN CONQUEST NINEVEH AND THE FIRST COSSAEAN KINGS-THE PEOPLES OF SYRIA, THEIR TOWNS, THEIR CIVILIZATION, THEIR RELIGION-PHOENICIA. The dynasty of Uruazagga-The Cossseans: their country, their gods, their conquest of Chaldaea-The first sovereigns of Assyria, and the first Cossaean Icings: Agumhakrime. The Egyptian names for Syria: Khara, Zahi, Lotanu, Kefatiu-The military highway from the Nile to the Euphrates: first section from Zalu to Gaza-The Canaanites: …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 4 Moses and his Writings
[Illustration: (drop cap W) Clay letter tablet of Moses' time.] We now begin to understand a little of the very beginning of God's Book--of the times in which it was written, the materials used by its first author, and the different kinds of writing from which he had to choose; but we must go a step farther. How much did Moses know about the history of his forefathers, Abraham and Jacob, and of all the old nations and kings mentioned in Genesis, before God called him to the great work of writing …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making The Pioneer's Influence Upon a Nation's Ideals.
ABRAHAM, THE TRADITIONAL FATHER OF HIS RACE.--Gen. 12:1-8; 13:1-13; 16; 18, 19; 21:7; 22:1-19. Parallel Readings. Hist. Bible I, 73-94. Prin of Pol., 160-175. Jehovah said to Abraham, Go forth from thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, to the land that I will show thee, that I may make of thee a great nation; and I will surely bless thee, and make thy name great, so that thou shalt be a blessing, I will also bless them that bless thee, and him that curseth thee will …
Charles Foster Kent—The Making of a Nation The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
Syria: the part played by it in the ancient world--Babylon and the first Chaldaean empire--The dominion of the Hyksos: Ahmosis. Some countries seem destined from their origin to become the battle-fields of the contending nations which environ them. Into such regions, and to their cost, neighbouring peoples come from century to century to settle their quarrels and bring to an issue the questions of supremacy which disturb their little corner of the world. The nations around are eager for the possession …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 4 The Gospel Feast
"When Jesus then lifted up His eyes, and saw a great company come unto Him, He saith unto Philip, Whence shall we buy bread that these may eat?"--John vi. 5. After these words the Evangelist adds, "And this He said to prove him, for He Himself knew what He would do." Thus, you see, our Lord had secret meanings when He spoke, and did not bring forth openly all His divine sense at once. He knew what He was about to do from the first, but He wished to lead forward His disciples, and to arrest and …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VII The Promise to the Patriarchs.
A great epoch is, in Genesis, ushered in with the history of the time of the Patriarchs. Luther says: "This is the third period in which Holy Scripture begins the history of the Church with a new family." In a befitting manner, the representation is opened in Gen. xii. 1-3 by an account of the first revelation of God, given to Abraham at Haran, in which the way is opened up for all that follows, and in which the dispensations of God are brought before us in a rapid survey. Abraham is to forsake …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament Tithing
There are few subjects on which the Lord's own people are more astray than on the subject of giving. They profess to take the Bible as their own rule of faith and practice, and yet in the matter of Christian finance, the vast majority have utterly ignored its plain teachings and have tried every substitute the carnal mind could devise; therefore it is no wonder that the majority of Christian enterprises in the world today are handicapped and crippled through the lack of funds. Is our giving to be …
Arthur W. Pink—Tithing The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
WHEREIN ITS GOODLY LIGHT, WALLS, GATES, ANGELS, AND THE MANNER OF THEIR STANDING, ARE EXPOUNDED: ALSO HER LENGTH AND BREADTH, TOGETHER WITH THE GOLDEN MEASURING-REED EXPLAINED: AND THE GLORY OF ALL UNFOLDED. AS ALSO THE NUMEROUSNESS OF ITS INHABITANTS; AND WHAT THE TREE AND WATER OF LIFE ARE, BY WHICH THEY ARE SUSTAINED. 'Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God.'-Psalm 87:3 'And the name of the city from that day shall be, THE LORD IS THERE.'-Ezekiel 48:35 London: Printed in the year 1665 …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Genesis
The Old Testament opens very impressively. In measured and dignified language it introduces the story of Israel's origin and settlement upon the land of Canaan (Gen.--Josh.) by the story of creation, i.-ii. 4a, and thus suggests, at the very beginning, the far-reaching purpose and the world-wide significance of the people and religion of Israel. The narrative has not travelled far till it becomes apparent that its dominant interests are to be religious and moral; for, after a pictorial sketch of …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Genesis 14:21 NIVGenesis 14:21 NLTGenesis 14:21 ESVGenesis 14:21 NASBGenesis 14:21 KJV
Genesis 14:21 Commentaries
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