< Genesis 18 >

Abraham was visited by three angels, one of whom was invested with the name of the LORD (YAHWEH). It is not clear if Abraham knew that these strangers were angels when they approached his tent but it may be he is an example of someone who entertained angels unawares (Hebrews 13:2).Hebrews 13:2XWaiting for response However, he would have quickly realized they were such when they declared that Sarah would very soon bear the promised seed.

Sarah heard that she would have a son, which was incredible news as she had been barren for so long and was well passed childbearing age.

Sarah's reaction to having a child at her age was natural and similar to that of the apostles on hearing the news that Jesus was alive again after his crucifixion and burial. They found it incredible, but Jesus knew of their reaction, without being there, and reproached them for their unbelief (Mark 16:11,14).Mark 16:11,14XWaiting for response Likewise, Sarah laughed in her heart, without anyone hearing, but the angel knew and upbraided her, as Jesus had done the apostles. Nevertheless, they and Sarah truly believed God would do what he said, and she is set forth as an example of faithfulness (Hebrews 11:11).Hebrews 11:11XWaiting for response And she proclaimed later, when Isaac was born, whose name means “laughter”, “the LORD has made me to laugh and all that hear will laugh with me” (Genesis 21:6).Genesis 21:6XWaiting for response Therefore, we rejoice with Sarah because all those who do so are counted “the children of the promise”, as the apostle Paul proved by citing this incident (Romans 9:8-9).Romans 9:8-9XWaiting for response

The angels then proceeded towards Sodom to destroy it with its inhabitants for their wickedness but the LORD remained with Abraham and revealed to him his purpose because of his righteousness, especially in teaching his children to obey the LORD. On hearing of Sodom’s impending destruction, Abraham pleaded with the LORD that Sodom would be spared if there were ten righteous in the city – undoubtedly because his nephew Lot was living there.

Abraham is set forth as example to us of behaviour which is acceptable to God and his pleading in prayer was accepted so Lot was saved, for the LORD delivers the righteous out of their troubles (Psalms 34:17,19).Psalms 34:17,19XWaiting for response We are told if we ask according to his will, he hears us (1 John 5:14),1 John 5:14XWaiting for response and Jesus also taught his disciples by the parable of the Unjust Judge (Luke 18:3-7)Luke 18:3-7XWaiting for response to be importunate in prayer.