The cry of Sodom, &c.— The sin of cities is thus figuratively represented, calling aloud as it were to heaven for vengeance. See Isaiah 5:7. And for the phrase, I will go down and see, &c. see notes on ch. Genesis 11:4; Genesis 11:7. God is a just Judge, and will not punish without the strictest examination. Two of these three persons are deputed (Genesis 11:22 compared with ch. Genesis 19:1.) to go to Sodom, while the third, the superior Person, the Jehovah, continues with Abraham, and hears his intercession.
It must be pleasing to the learned, and may perhaps be considered as a collateral evidence of the truth of the sacred writings, to perceive the most celebrated of the classic writers continually borrowing their most brilliant ideas from the Oracles of God. Thus Ovid represents the Supreme as coming down to the earth in a human shape, to inquire into the state of a degenerate people:
"The clamours of this vile degenerate age Had reach'd the stars: I will descend, said I, In hope to prove this loud complaint a lie: Disguis'd in human shape I travell'd round The world, and more than what I heard I found." GARTH.
REFLECTIONS.—The visit over, the strangers depart. But Abraham had talked so much of the sweets of their company, he will not leave them thus, but brings them on their way. Note; We are loth to part with those, with whom we have enjoyed much of the presence of the Lord. And now Abraham's kindness is still additionally repaid: while two of his guests are sent before him, the third stays. His Lord not only gives him his company, but reveals to him his secret. Observe,
1. God's reasons for informing Abraham of his design. (1.) He will not hide his counsel from him; for he is a friend, for whom he had done much, and would do more. Note; God discovers more of his secret counsels to his servants, than to other men. An enlightened mind, thoroughly versed in God's word, attains a knowledge next to prophecy. (2.) Abraham will instruct his children and household. Whatever knowledge he hath, will be made useful to others as well as himself. Ye masters of families, behold in Abraham's practice your example and duty. [1.] Make it your care and business to instruct your children and servants in the way of the Lord. Remember, the lowest under your roof has an immortal soul, and it is entrusted to your care. [2.] Be yourselves examples of what you teach. [3.] Be constant with them at a throne of grace, both to shew them the way thither, and to obtain a blessing on your labours among them.
2. His discovery of the design of his visit to Sodom: their sins, which called for vengeance. And he is come to inquire: not that he wanted to be informed, but that he may appear both patient and just in all his judgments. Learn, (1.) Crying sins are heard in heaven, however unnoticed on earth. And Note; These sins were pride, luxury, and idleness, and their necessary consequences. Who need not hearken, whether some such cry go not up from him? (2.) Sinners say, "God will not see," but they are woefully mistaken. (3.) God never punishes by report: many are belied, whom God will acquit: but where he condemns, his judgment is ever according to truth.