Genesis 18:19

KJV

For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

KJV (with Strong's)

For I know {H3045} him, that {H834} he will command {H6680} his children {H1121} and his household {H1004} after him {H310}, and they shall keep {H8104} the way {H1870} of the LORD {H3068}, to do {H6213} justice {H6666} and judgment {H4941}; that the LORD {H3068} may bring {H935} upon Abraham {H85} that which he hath spoken {H1696} of him.

Complete Jewish Bible

For I have made myself known to him, so that he will give orders to his children and to his household after him to keep the way of ADONAI and to do what is right and just, so that ADONAI may bring about for Avraham what he has promised him."

Berean Standard Bible

For I have chosen him, so that he will command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing what is right and just, in order that the LORD may bring upon Abraham what He has promised.”

American Standard Version

For I have known him, to the end that he may command his children and his household after him, that they may keep the way of Jehovah, to do righteousness and justice; to the end that Jehovah may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 18:19 unveils a profound declaration of God's intimate knowledge of Abraham, revealing the divine basis for His trust in the patriarch. This verse highlights Abraham's pivotal role in God's redemptive plan, emphasizing his commitment to actively command his children and household to faithfully observe "the way of the LORD," which encompasses both righteous conduct and the administration of justice. This intergenerational faithfulness is presented as the means through which God's magnificent covenantal promises to Abraham will be fully realized.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a highly significant narrative sequence in Genesis 18. Immediately preceding it, the Lord, appearing in human form with two angels, has just announced to Abraham that Sarah will bear a son within a year, fulfilling a long-awaited promise. Following this, the Lord reveals His intention to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah due to their grievous sin. It is in this weighty moment, as the divine visitors prepare to depart towards Sodom, that the Lord pauses to explain *why* He is disclosing His plans to Abraham. This verse thus serves as a divine soliloquy, a justification for God's unique transparency with Abraham, underscoring the deep, covenantal intimacy and trust that exists between them before Abraham embarks on his remarkable intercession for the cities.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern patriarchal societies, the head of the household held immense authority and responsibility, not only over his immediate family but also over servants, dependents, and even extended kin. The household (`H1004 bayith`) was the fundamental unit of society, responsible for transmitting cultural, religious, and moral values across generations. Abraham, as the patriarch, was expected to establish and enforce the ethical and spiritual norms for his entire household. This context illuminates the weight of God's statement: Abraham's leadership was not merely domestic but foundational to the establishment of a righteous nation through whom God's universal blessings would flow. The concept of "the way of the LORD" (`H1870 derek`) would have been understood as adherence to divine decrees and moral principles, distinct from the practices of surrounding pagan cultures.

* **Key Themes:** Genesis 18:19 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the theme of **Divine Knowledge and Election**, demonstrating God's sovereign choice of Abraham based on an intimate, foreknowing relationship, not merely a superficial acquaintance. It highlights **Covenantal Faithfulness**, illustrating that while God's promises are sovereign, human obedience and active participation are integral to their outworking. Furthermore, the verse emphasizes the **Intergenerational Transmission of Faith and Righteousness**, establishing the family as the primary sphere for spiritual formation and the perpetuation of God's covenant. This principle resonates throughout the Pentateuch, particularly in the call to teach God's commands diligently to children, as seen in [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6-7 "The Great Commandment and its Transmission"). Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Holistic Righteousness**, where "the way of the LORD" is not confined to personal piety but extends to the public sphere of "justice and judgment," reflecting God's own character and His desire for a just society, a theme echoed in prophetic calls for righteousness in [Amos 5:24](/amos/5-24 "Let Justice Roll Down").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
The Lord declares, "For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him." This statement is a divine affirmation of Abraham's character and his pivotal role in God's redemptive plan.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Know (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** This term (H3045) signifies far more than mere intellectual awareness. It implies an intimate, personal, and relational knowledge, often with an element of choice, approval, or covenantal recognition. As seen in the Strong's data, it encompasses observation, care, recognition, and even instruction. In this context, God's "knowing" Abraham means He has chosen him, deeply understands his character, and affirms his faithfulness, entrusting him with a unique role in His divine purposes.
* **Command (Hebrew, _tsâvâh'_):** The word (H6680) denotes an authoritative directive, an injunction, or a strong charge. It implies more than merely suggesting; it is a binding instruction. Abraham's role is not passive; he is to actively and intentionally "enjoin" or "constitute" his household in the ways of the Lord. This highlights the patriarch's responsibility to lead, teach, and enforce righteous living within his sphere of influence.
* **Way (Hebrew, _derek'_):** This term (H1870) refers to a road or path, but figuratively, as the Strong's data indicates, it signifies a course of life or a mode of action. "The way of the LORD" therefore describes a comprehensive lifestyle characterized by obedience, faithfulness, and alignment with God's revealed will and character. It encompasses both spiritual devotion and ethical conduct, representing the path of righteousness that God desires for His people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For I know him":** This opening clause reveals the depth of God's relationship with Abraham. It's not a casual acquaintance but a profound, intimate knowledge that undergirds God's trust and His decision to reveal His plans concerning Sodom and Gomorrah. This divine knowledge is the foundation of Abraham's election and his unique standing before God.
* **"that he will command his children and his household after him":** This specifies the reason for God's trust. Abraham is not only personally righteous but also a responsible leader. He will actively instruct, direct, and enforce God's ways within his entire extended family and dependents, ensuring that the covenantal legacy is passed on to future generations.
* **"and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment":** This describes the outcome of Abraham's faithful leadership. His descendants will not merely hear the commands but will "keep" (guard, observe) God's way. This "way" is concretely defined by "doing justice and judgment," emphasizing that true faith manifests in ethical conduct, equitable relationships, and adherence to divine standards of righteousness in society.
* **"that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him":** This final clause articulates the ultimate purpose and consequence of Abraham's faithfulness and his household's obedience. The fulfillment of God's covenant promises—including the promise of a great nation, land, and universal blessing—is directly linked to the intergenerational commitment to "the way of the LORD." Human faithfulness, empowered by divine grace, becomes the conduit for divine promise fulfillment.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Personification** is evident in God's declaration, "For I know him," as it attributes to God a relational, intimate knowledge similar to that shared between humans, emphasizing His personal engagement with Abraham. The phrase "the way of the LORD" functions as a **Metonymy**, where "way" stands for the entire body of divine commands, moral principles, and righteous living that God requires. The structure of the verse itself demonstrates **Cause and Effect**, where God's knowledge of Abraham's character (cause) leads to His confidence in Abraham's leadership, which in turn leads to the household keeping God's way (effect), ultimately resulting in the fulfillment of God's promises (final effect). This highlights the **Covenantal Language** and the reciprocal nature of the relationship between God and His chosen servant.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 18:19 is a cornerstone for understanding the nature of God's covenant with humanity and the integral role of human responsibility within divine sovereignty. It reveals that God's election is not arbitrary but often rooted in His intimate knowledge of character and potential for faithfulness. Abraham's commitment to lead his household in "the way of the LORD" underscores the profound biblical principle that faith is meant to be lived out practically and transmitted intergenerationally. This "way" encompasses both personal piety and public justice, demonstrating that true righteousness is holistic, impacting both individual conduct and societal ethics. The verse thus links the faithfulness of a patriarch and his lineage directly to the grand fulfillment of God's redemptive purposes, showing how human obedience can become the channel through which divine promises are realized.

* [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6-7 "Teaching God's Commands to Children")
* [Psalm 103:17-18](/psalm/103-17-18 "God's Mercy to Those Who Keep His Covenant")
* [Proverbs 22:6](/proverbs/22-6 "Train Up a Child")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 18:19 offers timeless wisdom for every believer, particularly those in positions of leadership within families, churches, or communities. It challenges us to consider the depth of our own "way of the LORD"—is it merely a private belief, or does it manifest in active pursuit of justice and judgment in our spheres of influence? For parents and heads of households, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the sacred responsibility to intentionally disciple the next generation, not just by example, but by actively "commanding" or instructing them in God's truth. Our faithfulness in living out and teaching God's commands is not just for our own benefit; it is intrinsically linked to the unfolding of God's purposes and blessings, not only in our lives but also for those who come after us. This passage calls us to a holistic righteousness where our faith informs our ethics, our personal devotion shapes our public conduct, and our commitment to God's way becomes a conduit for His promises to be brought to fruition through us and our lineage.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways can I, like Abraham, intentionally "command" or instruct my household (or those under my influence) in "the way of the LORD"?**
* **How does my understanding of "justice and judgment" extend beyond personal piety to impact my engagement with broader societal issues?**
* **What promises of God am I seeking to see fulfilled in my life, and how might my faithfulness in living "the way of the LORD" contribute to their realization?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean for God to "know" Abraham in Genesis 18:19?**

Answer: The phrase "For I know him" (Hebrew: *yadaʻ*) in [Genesis 18:19](/genesis/18-19 "God's Knowledge of Abraham") signifies much more than simple intellectual awareness. It implies a deep, intimate, and covenantal relationship. In biblical terms, "to know" often carries the connotation of choosing, affirming, and entering into a special relationship. For God to "know" Abraham means He has chosen him, He understands his character profoundly, He approves of him, and He has entered into a unique, personal bond with him. This intimate knowledge is the basis for God's trust in Abraham to faithfully lead his family in "the way of the LORD" and to be the patriarch through whom His redemptive plans would unfold. This kind of knowing is also seen in God's relationship with Israel in [Amos 3:2](/amos/3-2 "God's unique knowledge of Israel"), signifying a chosen, exclusive relationship.

**Why is the concept of "justice and judgment" so important within "the way of the LORD"?**

Answer: The inclusion of "to do justice and judgment" within "the way of the LORD" in [Genesis 18:19](/genesis/18-19 "Abraham's Charge to His Household") highlights that true faith is not merely personal piety or ritualistic observance; it has profound ethical and social dimensions. "Justice" (Hebrew: *tsedaqah*) refers to righteousness, what is right and fair, while "judgment" (Hebrew: *mishpat*) refers to the act of administering justice, upholding what is right, and ensuring equity. Together, they describe a life lived in accordance with God's moral character, which is inherently just and righteous. This means that God's people are called not only to worship Him but also to reflect His character in their interactions with others, ensuring fairness, defending the vulnerable, and promoting equity within their communities. This holistic understanding of righteousness is a consistent theme throughout Scripture, as seen in passages like [Micah 6:8](/micah/6-8 "What the Lord Requires") and [Isaiah 1:17](/isaiah/1-17 "Learn to Do Good; Seek Justice").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Genesis 18:19, with its emphasis on Abraham's righteous leadership and the intergenerational keeping of "the way of the LORD" through "justice and judgment," finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Abraham, though faithful, was an imperfect patriarch leading an imperfect household. His efforts to command his descendants in righteousness foreshadow the perfect leadership of Christ, who is Himself "the way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). Jesus perfectly embodied "the way of the LORD," fulfilling all righteousness not only through His impeccable life but also through His atoning death and resurrection. As the true Son of Abraham and the head of God's spiritual household—the Church—Jesus established a new covenant, making it possible for all who believe in Him to become Abraham's spiritual offspring, heirs to the promises ([Galatians 3:29](/galatians/3-29 "Heirs According to the Promise")). Through the indwelling Holy Spirit, Christ empowers believers to "do justice and judgment" ([Matthew 23:23](/matthew/23-23 "Justice, Mercy, and Faith")), thereby bringing about the full realization of God's covenantal promises, not just for a single nation, but for all who are united to Him by faith, establishing a righteous lineage that spans across all generations and nations, ultimately culminating in His eternal kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 6:6

And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:

Deuteronomy 6:7

And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.

Deuteronomy 4:9

Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons' sons;

Deuteronomy 4:10

[Specially] the day that thou stoodest before the LORD thy God in Horeb, when the LORD said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and [that] they may teach their children.

1 Timothy 3:4

One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;

1 Timothy 3:5

(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)

Ephesians 6:4

And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.