Why does God consider revealing His plans to Abraham in Genesis 18:17? Setting the Scene “Then the LORD said, ‘Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do?’” (Genesis 18:17) God’s Self-Question In the flow of the story, the Lord pauses to ask Himself whether to disclose His intentions concerning Sodom and Gomorrah. This brief question opens a window into the heart of God and His relationship with Abraham. Key Reasons God Chooses Revelation • Covenant Friendship – Genesis 15 established an irrevocable covenant; friends share their hearts. – 2 Chronicles 20:7 calls Abraham “Your friend forever.” – John 15:15 echoes the pattern: “I have called you friends, for everything I learned from My Father I have made known to you.” • Father of a Nation and of Faith – Genesis 18:18 states, “Abraham will surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth will be blessed through him.” – God involves the patriarch so he can pass truth to generations (v. 19). • Training in Justice and Righteousness – Verse 19: “…so that he will command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing what is right and just.” – Seeing divine justice in action equips Abraham to lead his household in those same values. • Invitation to Intercession – God’s disclosure prompts Abraham’s bold pleas for Sodom (Genesis 18:23-33). – Ezekiel 22:30 shows God still seeks intercessors who will “stand in the gap.” • Demonstrating God’s Transparent Character – Amos 3:7: “Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets.” – Revelation affirms God’s desire to act in the open and invite partnership. • Confirming the Pattern of Blessing and Judgment – By revealing impending judgment, God underlines that He is both merciful and just (Psalm 89:14). – Abraham learns that blessing the righteous and judging wickedness are two sides of God’s covenant faithfulness. Takeaways for Today • God still shares His heart with those who walk in covenant obedience. • The call to intercede for cities and nations remains urgent. • Teaching future generations depends on firsthand encounters with God’s righteousness. Abraham’s story reminds us that revelation is not merely information; it is an invitation into partnership with the living God who delights to make His ways known. |
    |