Genesis 18
Three Visitors and Abraham's Intercession
Overview
Three visitors confirm Isaac's birth. Sarah laughs in disbelief. Abraham intercedes for Sodom, revealing the heart of a faithful intercessor.
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Introduction
Genesis 18 demonstrates the importance of hospitality, confirms God's promise of a son, and reveals Abraham's role as an intercessor for the wicked city of Sodom.
The Three Visitors
[1-8] Abraham shows exemplary hospitality to three visitors:
- [1-2] The LORD appeared to Abraham near the great trees of Mamre. He looked up and saw three men standing nearby.
- [3-5] Abraham rushed to meet them, bowing low, and offered water, rest, and food.
- [6-8] He hurried to prepare a feast: fine flour cakes, a tender calf, curds, and milk.
The Promise Confirmed
[9-15] The visitors confirm Sarah will have a son:
- [10] "I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife will have a son."
- [12] Sarah laughed to herself, thinking she was too old.
- [14] "Is anything too hard for the LORD? I will return to you at the appointed time next year, and Sarah will have a son."
- [15] Sarah denied laughing because she was afraid, but the LORD said, "Yes, you did laugh."
Abraham Intercedes for Sodom
[16-33] God reveals His plan for Sodom, and Abraham intercedes:
- [17-19] God chose to share His plans with Abraham because He knew Abraham would direct his children to keep the way of the LORD.
- [20-21] The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah was great, and their sin grievous.
- [23-32] Abraham boldly negotiated with God: "Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked?" He bargained from fifty righteous people down to ten, and God agreed not to destroy the city if ten righteous people were found.
Key Takeaways
- Hospitality and Encounter: Abraham's welcoming of the visitors led to a divine encounter.
- Nothing Is Too Hard for God: [14] God's response to Sarah's laughter affirms His unlimited power.
- The Heart of an Intercessor: Abraham's bold yet humble prayer for Sodom shows his concern for others.
- God's Justice and Mercy: God is willing to spare the wicked for the sake of the righteous.