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Commentary on Genesis 18 verses 16–22
The messengers from heaven had now despatched one part of their business, which was an errand of grace to Abraham and Sarah, and which they delivered first; but now they have before them work of another nature. Sodom is to be destroyed, and they must do it, Gen 19:13. Note, As with the Lord there is mercy, so he is the God to whom vengeance belongs. Pursuant to their commission, we here find, 1. That they looked towards Sodom (Gen 18:16); they set their faces against it in wrath, as God is said to look unto the host of the Egyptians, Exo 14:24. Note, Though God has long seemed to connive at sinners, from which they have inferred that the Lord does not see, does not regard, yet, when the day of his wrath comes, he will look towards them. 2. That they went towards Sodom (Gen 18:22), and accordingly we find two of them at Sodom, Gen 19:1. Whether the third was the Lord, before whom Abraham yet stood, and to whom he drew near (Gen 18:23), as most think, or whether the third left them before they came to Sodom, and the Lord before whom Abraham stood was the shechinah, or that appearance of the divine glory which Abraham had formerly seen and conversed with, is uncertain. However, we have here,
I. The honour Abraham did to his guests: He went with them to bring them on the way, as one that was loth to part with such good company, and was desirous to pay his utmost respects to them. This is a piece of civility proper to be shown to our friends; but it must be done as the apostle directs (Jo3 1:6), after a godly sort.
II. The honour they did to him; for those that honour God he will honour. God communicated to Abraham his purpose to destroy Sodom, and not only so, but entered into a free conference with him about it. Having taken him, more closely than before, into covenant with himself (ch. 17), he here admits him into more intimate communion with himself than ever, as the man of his counsel. Observe here,
1.God's friendly thoughts concerning Abraham, Gen 18:17-19, where we have his resolution to make known to Abraham his purpose concerning Sodom, with the reasons of it. If Abraham had not brought them on their way, perhaps he would not have been thus favoured; but he that loves to walk with wise men shall be wise, Pro 13:20. See how God is pleased to argue with himself: Shall I hide from Abraham (or, as some read it, Am I concealing from Abraham) that thing which I do? "Can I go about such a thing, and not tell Abraham?" Thus does God, in his counsels, express himself, after the manner of men, with deliberation. But why must Abraham be of the cabinet-council? The Jews suggest that because God had granted the land of Canaan to Abraham and his seed therefore he would not destroy those cities which were a part of that land, without his knowledge and consent. But God here gives two other reasons: -
(1.)Abraham must know, for he is a friend and a favourite, and one that God has a particular kindness for and great things in store for. He is to become a great nation; and not only so, but in the Messiah, who is to come from his loins, All nations of the earth shall be blessed. Note, The secret of the Lord is with those that fear him, Psa 25:14; Pro 3:32. Those who by faith live a life of communion with God cannot but know more of his mind than other people, though not with a prophetical, yet with a prudential practical knowledge. They have a better insight than others into what is present (Hos 14:9; Psa 107:43), and a better foresight of what is to come, at least so much as suffices for their guidance and for their comfort.
(2.)Abraham must know, for he will teach his household: I know Abraham very well, that he will command his children and his household after him, Gen 18:19. Consider this, [1.] As a very bright part of Abraham's character and example. He not only prayed with his family, but he taught them as a man of knowledge, nay, he commanded them as a man in authority, and was prophet and king, as well as priest, in his own house. Observe, First, God having made the covenant with him and his seed, and his household being circumcised pursuant to that, he was very careful to teach and rule them well. Those that expect family blessings must make conscience of family duty. If our children be the Lord's, they must be nursed for him; if they wear his livery, they must be trained up in his work. Secondly, Abraham took care not only of his children, but of his household; his servants were catechized servants. Masters of families should instruct and inspect the manners of all under their roof. The poorest servants have precious souls that must be looked after. Thirdly, Abraham made it his care and business to promote practical religion in his family. He did not fill their heads with matters of nice speculation, or doubtful disputation; but he taught them to keep the way of the Lord, and to do judgment and justice, that is, to be serious and devout in the worship of God and to be honest in their dealings with all men. Fourthly, Abraham, herein, had an eye to posterity, and was in care not only that his household with him, but that his household after him, should keep the way of the Lord, that religion might flourish in his family when he was in his grave. Fifthly, His doing this was the fulfilling of the conditions of the promises which God had made him. Those only can expect the benefit of the promises that make conscience of their duty. [2.] As the reason why God would make known to him his purpose concerning Sodom, because he was communicative of his knowledge, and improved it for the benefit of those that were under his charge. Note, To him that hath shall be given, Mat 13:12; Mat 25:29. Those that make a good use of their knowledge shall know more.
2.God's friendly talk with Abraham, in which he makes known to him purpose concerning Sodom, and allows him a liberty of application to him about the matter. (1.) He tells him of the evidence there was against Sodom: The cry of Sodom is great, Gen 18:20. Note, Some sins, and the sins of some sinners, cry aloud to heaven for vengeance. The iniquity of Sodom was crying iniquity, that is, it was so very provoking that it even urged God to punish. (2.) The enquiry he would make upon this evidence: I will go down now and see, Gen 18:21. Not as if there were any thing concerning which God is in doubt, or in the dark; but he is pleased thus to express himself after the manner of men, [1.] To show the incontestable equity of all his judicial proceedings. Men are apt to suggest that his way is not equal; but let them know that his judgments are the result of an eternal counsel, and are never rash or sudden resolves. He never punishes upon report, or common fame, or the information of others, but upon his own certain and infallible knowledge. [2.] To give example to magistrates, and those in authority, with the utmost care and diligence to enquire into the merits of a cause, before they give judgment upon it. [3.] Perhaps the decree is here spoken of as not yet peremptory, that room and encouragement might be given to Abraham to make intercession for them. Thus God looked if there were any to intercede, Isa 59:16.
After the three men promised Sarah fruit, “they arose, and they looked toward Sodom.” It was not revealed to Sarah that they were going to Sodom lest, on the same day that they had given her joy in the promise that a son was to be hers, she be grieving over her brother on account of that sentence of wrath decreed on Sodom and the nearby villages. They hid this from Sarah lest she never cease weeping, but they revealed it to Abraham so that he not cease praying and so that it be announced to the world that nowhere in Sodom was there found a single just man for whose sake it might be saved.
When the men got up from there, they directed their eyes toward Sodom, and Abraham was walking with them to see them on their way. When it is said that the men got up from there, it is shown that while they were sitting, Abraham was standing and ministering to them, although he had initially seen them standing. They directed their eyes toward Sodom so that just as they rewarded the faith of blessed Abraham with joyful promises, they would destroy the faithlessness of the impious city with avenging flames, according to what the Psalmist said, who after proclaiming the Lord's mercy toward the holy: "The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are attentive to their cries" (Psalm 34:16), immediately added His severity in the punishment of the wicked: "But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to blot out their name from the earth" (v. 17). But that Abraham walked with the angels to see them on their way, he is believed to have done from the custom of devoted hospitality; but blessed were those steps by which a man was deemed worthy to walk with angels on earth, and to lead them who had come to visit him back to heaven; now blessed are those lives that follow the angelic way of life on earth, by living soberly, righteously, piously, and chastely, and by always, as much as mortal is possible, devoting themselves to divine praises. Truly, blessed Abraham, because he so joyfully received the Lord coming, that he cared to see them off as if they were household members, deserved to know higher secrets of divine works; who, understanding himself the strictness of the forthcoming divine retribution on the world, as he had previously shown himself devoted to God in receiving guests, so afterward he showed himself solicitous for his neighbors by interceding for them.
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SUMMARY
Genesis 18:16 serves as a pivotal transition, marking the departure of the divine visitors from Abraham's encampment at Mamre. Their ominous gaze towards Sodom signals an imminent shift from the joyful promise of Isaac's birth to the solemn purpose of divine judgment. Abraham, demonstrating profound hospitality and his unique relationship with God, accompanies them on their way, setting the immediate stage for his remarkable intercession on behalf of the cities of the plain.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Genesis 18:16 employs several significant literary devices. The verse functions as a crucial Transition, marking a dramatic shift in the narrative's focus from the joyous promise of Isaac's birth to the solemn, impending judgment of Sodom. This shift is powerfully conveyed through Foreshadowing and Prolepsis, particularly in the phrase "looked toward Sodom," which immediately hints at the future destruction of the city without explicitly stating it, building suspense and anticipation. The city of Sodom itself functions as Symbolism, representing extreme human depravity and the inevitable consequence of unrepentant sin. Abraham's act of "bringing them on the way" also carries Symbolic weight, representing not just cultural hospitality but the intimate, trusting relationship he shares with God, setting him apart as a confidant. While not overt, there's a subtle use of Anthropomorphism in the description of the divine "men" rising and looking, attributing human actions to divine beings to make their presence and purpose relatable to the human narrative.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 18:16 is rich with theological and thematic implications. It powerfully illustrates God's active involvement in human history, His unwavering commitment to justice, and His righteous response to sin. The divine gaze towards Sodom underscores God's ultimate sovereignty over all nations and His steadfast determination to execute judgment where wickedness is pervasive and unrepentant. Yet, amidst this impending judgment, the passage simultaneously highlights God's profound desire for intimacy and transparency with those who walk closely with Him. His willingness to reveal His plans to Abraham, a trusted friend, exemplifies His covenant faithfulness and desire to share His heart with His chosen. Abraham's act of hospitality and his accompanying the divine visitors also sets the stage for his remarkable intercession, emphasizing the crucial role of the righteous in pleading for the unrighteous and demonstrating the power of prayer motivated by compassion and a deep understanding of God's character.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 18:16 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, inviting us to reflect on the nature of our walk with God and our role in His divine purposes. Firstly, it reiterates the enduring importance of genuine hospitality, reminding us that acts of kindness and openness to strangers can, at times, be encounters with the divine. This calls us to cultivate a spirit of generosity and welcome, recognizing that Christ Himself identifies with those we serve. Secondly, the passage powerfully illustrates God's desire for a deep, intimate relationship with His people. Just as He revealed His heart and plans to Abraham, He longs to share His will with those who walk closely with Him in faith and obedience. This encourages us to pursue a vibrant, prayerful relationship with God, seeking His counsel and allowing Him to share His burdens and purposes with us. Finally, this verse serves as a solemn reminder of God's unwavering justice and His ultimate sovereignty over all human affairs. Even as He extends grace and opportunity for intercession through His faithful servants, He will ultimately bring righteous judgment upon sin. Our walk with God should therefore be one of close companionship, enabling us to discern His will and participate in His divine purposes, whether in blessing or in the face of impending judgment, always striving to be His faithful representatives in a world desperately in need of His truth and grace.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did Abraham accompany the men on their way?
Answer: Abraham accompanied the men as a traditional and deeply significant act of hospitality in the ancient Near East. It was a common courtesy for a host to walk with departing guests for a distance, signifying respect, goodwill, and a complete fulfillment of host duties, ensuring their safe departure. Beyond cultural custom, this act also profoundly highlights Abraham's deep personal relationship and intimacy with the Lord, setting the stage for the remarkable and revealing conversation about Sodom that immediately follows in Genesis 18:17-33.
What is the significance of the men "looking toward Sodom"?
Answer: The act of the men "looking toward Sodom" is highly significant and ominous. It marks a dramatic and immediate shift in the narrative's focus from the promise of a son to the impending divine judgment. This deliberate gaze visually foreshadows the divine wrath about to be unleashed upon Sodom and Gomorrah due to their pervasive and unrepentant wickedness, as detailed in Genesis 19. It emphasizes God's direct attention to human sin and His readiness to execute righteous judgment, underscoring His sovereignty and justice.
Who exactly were "the men" mentioned in this verse?
Answer: Based on the preceding narrative in Genesis 18:1-2, "the men" refer to the Lord Himself, who appeared to Abraham, accompanied by two angels. While the text often refers to them collectively as "men," the divine identity of at least one of them (the Lord) is made explicitly clear through the dialogue and actions described throughout the chapter, particularly the Lord's direct pronouncements (e.g., Genesis 18:10) and His omniscient knowledge of Sarah's thoughts (e.g., Genesis 18:13). The other two "men" are identified as angels in Genesis 19:1.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Genesis 18:16, though rooted in the Old Testament narrative, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment. Abraham's extraordinary hospitality towards the divine visitors, one of whom is the pre-incarnate Lord, beautifully prefigures Christ's own incarnation, where God Himself "tabernacled among us" (John 1:14), making Himself accessible and dwelling with humanity. The Lord's revelation of His plans to Abraham, a trusted friend and covenant partner, points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate revelation of God's will and purpose for humanity, through whom all divine mysteries are made known and in whom "are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:3). Furthermore, the ominous gaze towards Sodom, signifying impending judgment, powerfully foreshadows Christ's ultimate role as the righteous Judge of all the earth, to whom "all judgment" has been committed by the Father (John 5:22). Yet, Abraham's act of accompanying the divine visitors and his subsequent intercession for Sodom also profoundly prefigure Christ's ultimate role as the Great Intercessor, who "ever liveth to make intercession" for His people before the Father (Hebrews 7:25), and whose perfect sacrifice as the "Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1:29) is the perfect propitiation that averts divine wrath for all who believe.