Therefore—called Zoar— It was before called Bela. See ch. Genesis 14:2. and being saved at Lot's intercession, because it was a little one, it was thence called Zoar, or little. It stood on the utmost skirt of the plain of Jordan, and was one of the five cities in that region where Sodom stood.
REFLECTIONS.—We have here Lot's flight and rescue from the burnings of Sodom. Though ten righteous were not found to save the whole, one righteous man is found, and he shall save himself and family. Observe,
1. Lot's lingering in Sodom. How loth to part from his house, his goods, his sons-in-law; but go he must, or perish in the flames! Learn, (1.) Worldly things are a great snare to the heart. (2.) These cause many an awakened soul to linger, through fear of loss or hope of gain, instead of coming out of the world, and being separate.
2. The Angels haste to get him away. They laid hold on him and his wife and daughters, and brought them out, and then urge their flight to the mountain, without so much as stopping by the way, or casting a look on the devoted cities. Note; (1.) They who would fly from sin to Christ Jesus must never think of seeking rest anywhere but in him. (2.) To look back with regret on the pleasures of sin, is the way to be again entangled thereby. (3.) Until death, we must hasten our flight faster and faster from the world which lieth in wickedness.
3. Lot's request. What a mixture of unbelief! Why could not he who called him out, help him on his way? Alas! how often does unbelief assault us! But here is also a mixture of charity. If Bela was his refuge, his safety would be also that of the inhabitants. God mingles his mercy in the midst of judgment.
4. The request is granted. Though there was much infirmity in Lot's pretending to choose the place of his safety, the more mercy is manifested in God's yielding to his request. Effectual fervent prayer availeth much. Note; A righteous man saved the city; how valuable such men! yet usually they are thought the troublers.