Genesis 18:1 - Meaning and Application

God’s appearance to Abraham here seems more free and familiar, and less overwhelming in majesty, than earlier appearances. In that way, it also points forward to the great visit the Son of God would make in the fullness of time, when the Word would become flesh and live among us. We should notice, then, how Abraham expected strangers, and how richly that expectation was rewarded (Genesis 18:1).

Abraham sat in the tent door in the heat of the day, not mainly to rest or amuse himself, but to look for a chance to do good by welcoming travelers and strangers. At that time, there were likely no inns to receive them. We are often most helped by the good works we are most ready and willing to do. God also kindly visits those in whom he has already awakened a desire for him, and he makes himself known to those who wait for him.

When Abraham looked up, he saw three men coming toward him. These were three heavenly beings who had taken human form so Abraham could see and speak with them. Some think all three were created angels, while others think one of them was the Son of God, the angel of the covenant, whom Abraham distinguished from the others (Genesis 18:3), and who is called the Lord in Genesis 18:13. The apostle uses this to encourage hospitality, saying that some have entertained angels without knowing it (Hebrews 13:2). If we have no good reason to suspect evil, love teaches us to hope the best and show kindness.

Abraham welcomed them with great respect and warmth. He forgot his age and dignity, ran to meet them, and bowed low to the ground, even though he knew only that they looked like honorable men. Religion does not destroy good manners, it improves them, and it teaches us to honor everyone. Decent courtesy is a fine ornament to godliness.

He also pressed them strongly to stay, and counted it a favor if they would accept his invitation (Genesis 18:3, 4). Those whom God has blessed with plenty should be open and generous in their hospitality, according to their ability, and they should truly mean what they say when they welcome others. We should take pleasure in showing kindness to anyone, for both God and people love a cheerful giver. Who would want the bread of a selfish man? (Proverbs 23:6, 7). If we want fellowship with God, we should desire it earnestly and pray for it. God is a guest worth welcoming.

Abraham’s hospitality was generous, but simple and plain. There was nothing fancy or elegant about it. His dining room was a shaded place under a tree. There was no fine tablecloth and no sideboard filled with silver. The meal was a calf, some milk and butter, and cakes baked on the hearth, all prepared quickly. There were no delicacies, no great variety, and no rich desserts, even though Abraham was very wealthy and his guests were highly honored. We should not be fussy about our food. Let us be thankful for what is enough, even if it is plain and common, and not crave delicacies, because they can be deceptive food for those who love them and set their hearts on them.

Abraham and Sarah were both busy serving their guests with the best they had. Sarah herself cooked and baked. Abraham ran to bring the calf, brought out the milk and butter, and even waited at the table, eager to show how welcome his guests were. Those who truly have worth do not need to act proud, and careful humility does not lower them. Warm friendship will stoop to anything except sin. Christ himself taught us to wash one another’s feet in humble love. Those who humble themselves in this way will be lifted up.

In all this, Abraham’s faith showed itself in good works, and ours must do the same, or else it is dead (James 2:21, 26). The father of all believers was known for charity, generosity, and good hospitality, and we should learn from him to do good and to share with others. Job did not eat his food alone (Job 31:17).