Genesis 18: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Genesis 18 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

In Genesis chapter 18, the narrative begins with the Lord appearing to Abraham near the oaks of Mamre. Abraham, demonstrating his hospitality, offers the three men (who are angels of the Lord) water and food. This act reflects a key theme of hospitality in the context of ancient Near Eastern culture and sets the tone for the divine visitation. As they eat, the Lord makes a startling announcement: Sarah, Abraham's wife, will bear a son, despite their old age. This promise reaffirms God's covenant with Abraham and highlights His ability to bring about life and hope in impossible circumstances.

Key verse

“Is anything too hard for Yahweh? At the set time I will return to you, when the season comes round, and Sarah will have a son.”
Genesis 18:14 (WEB)

Outline

Genesis 18:1–5 Divine Visit and Hospitality
Genesis 18:6–8 Preparation of a Meal
Genesis 18:9–15 Announcement of Isaac's Birth
Genesis 18:16–21 Judgment of Sodom Declared
Genesis 18:22–26 Abraham's Intercession Begins
Genesis 18:27–33 Negotiation for Sodom

Discussion questions

In v3, what does Abraham ask of the three men when he first sees them?
What does Sarah do in v12 when she hears the promise about having a son?
Yahweh's question in v14, 'Is anything too hard for Yahweh?' what does it imply about His power?
Abraham's negotiation in vv. 24-32: what does it suggest about his understanding of God's justice?
When have you felt the need to intercede for someone like Abraham did for Sodom?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Genesis 18: Luke 1, Jeremiah 32, Matthew 19.

Before next time: read Genesis 19.