ABRAHAM ENTERTAINS HEAVENLY VISITORS

Gen_18:1-15



The Son of God is the central figure here. He loves the homes of men. It has ever been His wont to visit the homes and hearts of those who love him. See Pro_8:31. Abraham knew well that the High and Lofty One, who inhabits eternity, had come to dwell with him. Others might see only three men, but he recognized his divine friend, addressing Him as “My Lord;” and when the two angels went forward alone to do their awful work in Sodom, he entered into close converse with the wondrous central figure, who remained with him still. He gave personal service, and so did Sarah. They gave their very best, fine, tender, and good. And in their love the Lord found satisfaction and rest. But remember that He still stands at the door and knocks. Ponder Joh_14:23; Rev_3:20. Christ tells His secrets to those He loves. His proposals and promises are so great that we can almost laugh with incredulity, but the question of Gen_18:14 is answered by Jer_32:17. Reckon on God’s faithfulness; He cannot fail those who trust Him.



ABRAHAM PLEADS FOR SODOM

Gen_18:16-33



Christ had visited Abraham’s tent, but He did more. He trusted him with His secrets, and led him almost unconsciously to a degree of faith and prayer that was far beyond what he had hitherto attained. Abraham seemed to be driving the Blessed One from point to point, but as a matter of fact, he was being drawn forward. It was so with the woman of Syrophenicia. God’s love and willingness to bless far exceeded Abraham’s faith, and when he had gone as far as he dared the divine love went farther and saved Lot from the overthrow. We can never go into the realms of love and compassion, without finding the footsteps of the Redeemer. See Heb_10:22. Amid all the mysteries of God’s moral government we must always believe that He is just and righteous. His throne is encircled by the rainbow, but it is founded in unimpeachable integrity. How low Abraham lay in his self-estimate! They who know most of God do not presume on their knowledge, but esteem themselves the least of saints.