Genesis 18:3

Genesis 18:3 KJV: "And said, My Lord, if now I have found favour in thy sight, pass not away, I pray thee, from thy servant:"

Context

This verse opens a pivotal scene in the life of Abraham, occurring shortly after God's covenant of circumcision and the promise of Isaac's birth. Abraham is sitting by his tent door in the heat of the day at the oaks of Mamre when three men appear. Without hesitation, Abraham rushes to meet them, bowing low to the ground in an immediate display of profound hospitality and reverence. This verse captures his earnest plea for them to stay, setting the stage for one of the most significant divine encounters, or theophanies, in the Old Testament, where one of the visitors is explicitly revealed to be the Lord Himself.

Key Themes

• Profound Hospitality: Abraham's immediate and fervent invitation exemplifies the ancient Near Eastern cultural value of hospitality towards strangers. His willingness to serve and accommodate them highlights a deep-seated generosity. This theme resonates throughout scripture, urging believers to "entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
• Humility and Reverence: Abraham addresses the visitors as "My Lord" and refers to himself as "thy servant," demonstrating a posture of deep respect and humility. This respectful address, even before fully discerning their identity, underscores Abraham's character and readiness to serve.
• Seeking Divine Favor: Abraham's plea, "if now I have found favour in thy sight," reflects a desire for approval and blessing from his guests. Unbeknownst to him at this exact moment, he is indeed speaking to the very source of all favor, setting the stage for the revelation of God's plan concerning Sodom and Gomorrah and the promise of a son.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "My Lord" is Adonai (אֲדֹנָי). While it can be a general term of respect for a superior (like "sir"), its use here, especially in light of the subsequent narrative where one of the visitors is identified as Yahweh, carries significant weight. It suggests Abraham's intuitive recognition of exceptional dignity, perhaps even divine presence. The word "favour" is chen (חֵן), referring to grace, kindness, or acceptance. Abraham's request is a humble petition for the visitors not to bypass his dwelling but to accept his invitation and extend their presence.

Practical Application

Genesis 18:3 serves as a timeless lesson in several areas:

• Openness to Divine Encounters: Abraham's immediate response to strangers, without knowing their true identity, teaches us to be open and welcoming. Sometimes, divine opportunities or messages come in unexpected forms, and our readiness to extend kindness can lead to profound spiritual experiences.
• The Value of Hospitality: In a world that can often be isolated, Abraham's example reminds us of the blessing in extending genuine hospitality, whether to strangers, friends, or family. It reflects a heart of generosity and love.
• Humility in Service: Abraham's humble posture and willingness to serve, even to those who appear as mere travelers, exemplify a servant heart. This attitude is foundational for those who seek to walk with God and receive His blessings, much like Christ taught about true greatness through service.