Genesis 18:3-4 . And he said, My Lord He addressed himself to one of the three, who seemed to have the pre-eminence, probably because of some peculiar majesty which appeared in his countenance, or the respect which the other two paid him. Let a little water be fetched As in those hot climates people went bare-footed, or wore only sandals, washing the feet often was both customary and necessary. read more
Genesis 18:7. Abraham ran to the herd In the several particulars here mentioned, we have a lively picture of the hospitality, simplicity, benevolence, and liberality of these ancient patriarchs. How different was their manner of life from the refinement and modish formality of the higher classes in modern times! read more
Genesis 18:9. Where is Sarah thy wife? By naming her, they gave intimation to Abraham, that though they seemed strangers, yet they well knew him and his family: by inquiring after her, they showed a kind concern for the family of one whom they found respectful to them. And by speaking of her, she overhearing it, they drew her to listen to what was further to be said. read more
Genesis 18:10. I will certainly return unto thee, and visit thee according to the time of life That is, nine months hence, and, in fulfilment of my promise, Sarah shall have a son. God will return to those that bid him welcome. read more
Genesis 18:12. Sarah laughed within herself It was not a laughter of faith, like Abraham’s, (Genesis 17:17,) but a laughter of doubting and distrust. The great objection which Sarah could not get over was her age. I am waxed old And past child-bearing in a course of nature, especially having been hitherto barren, and, which magnifies the difficulty, My lord is old also. Observe here, that Sarah calls Abraham her lord, and the Holy Ghost takes notice of it to her honour, and recommends... read more
Genesis 18:13 ; Genesis 18:15 . And the Lord (Hebrews, Jehovah) said, Wherefore did Sarah laugh? By showing that he knew what Sarah did secretly, in another apartment of the tent, he manifested that he could accomplish his word, however contrary to the ordinary course of nature. read more
Genesis 18:17. Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do Thus doth God in his counsels express himself after the manner of men, with deliberation. “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him.” Those that by faith live a life of communion with God, cannot but know more of his mind than other people. They have a better insight into what is present, and a better foresight of what is to come. read more
Genesis 18:19. I know Abraham that he will command his children, and his household after him This is a bright part of Abraham’s character. 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. And he not only took care of his children, but of his household: his servants were catechised servants. Masters of families should instruct, and inspect the... read more
Genesis 18:21. I will go down now and see Not as if there were any thing concerning which God is in doubt; but he is pleased thus to express himself after the manner of men, and to show that he ascertains the criminal’s guilt before he passes sentence. read more
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Joseph Benson's Commentary of the Old and New Testaments - Genesis 18:2
Genesis 18:2. And lo, three men These three men were three spiritual, heavenly beings, now assuming human shapes, that they might be visible to Abraham, and conversable with him. Some think they were all three created angels; others, which is more probable, that one of them was the Son of God. He bowed himself toward the ground Religion doth not destroy, but improve good manners, and teaches us to “honour all men.” read more