Question 1

Who are the three men who appeared to Abraham in this passage?

Accepted Answer

The passage calls them “three men,” but then also says that the Lord appeared to Abraham. Faithful readers understand this as God coming to Abraham with two angels, all in human form. Abraham first sees only travelers and treats them as guests. Later in the chapter it becomes clear that one speaks with the authority of the Lord, while the other two go toward Sodom. So at the start, Abraham responds to them as honored strangers, not yet fully knowing who is standing before him.

Question 2

Why was Abraham sitting in the tent door in the heat of the day?

Accepted Answer

Abraham was likely sitting in the tent door to catch any breeze and to watch the road during the hottest part of the day. In that culture, there were few inns, so people often looked out for travelers who might need water, shade, and food. The picture is of a man ready to help, not hiding inside. When he sees the three men, he is already in a place where he can quickly welcome them and offer rest from the heat of the sun.

Question 3

Why did Abraham bow to the ground and call one visitor “my Lord”?

Accepted Answer

Abraham bows and calls one of the three “my Lord” as a sign of deep respect. In that time and place, bowing low was a normal way to honor someone who seemed important. Abraham sees in these strangers a special dignity, so he shows them the highest courtesy he can. At this point he treats them as noble guests, not yet clearly knowing that the Lord himself is present. His posture shows humility, honor, and a willing spirit to serve those who come his way.

Question 4

What is the meaning of Abraham’s offer of water, rest, and a meal?

Accepted Answer

Abraham’s offer shows warm, active hospitality. He asks that water be brought so they can wash their dusty feet, invites them to rest under the tree, and promises “a morsel of bread” to strengthen them. But then he actually prepares a rich meal with fresh bread, a tender calf, butter, and milk. He speaks modestly about what he will give, but then gives generously and quickly. This shows a heart that gladly serves others and does not see such service as beneath him.

Question 5

Why do the visitors eat if they are the Lord and angels?

Accepted Answer

This visit has been understood as God and two angels taking on real human bodies for a time. In that form they walk, talk, sit, and eat at Abraham’s table. They do not eat because they need food, but to share table fellowship and to stay hidden until the right moment. God, who made all things, is able to give them bodies that truly function and then take those bodies away again. Their eating shows how near and personal God is willing to come to his servant.

Question 6

What does this passage show about Abraham’s faith and character?

Accepted Answer

The story shows Abraham’s faith working through love. He is old and wealthy, yet he runs to meet strangers, bows low, and serves them himself. He involves his whole household, speaking to Sarah and the young man, and everyone moves quickly to help. His feast is simple but generous. He stays standing by them as they eat, ready to serve more. This shows a man who trusts God, sees guests as sent by God, and gladly uses his home and goods to care for others.

Question 7

How was Sarah involved in welcoming the three visitors?

Accepted Answer

Sarah stays in the tent, but she plays a key role. Abraham rushes in and asks her to quickly make cakes from “three measures of fine meal,” which is a large amount of flour. She kneads the dough and bakes the bread on the hearth. While Abraham chooses and brings the calf, and a young man cooks it, Sarah provides the fresh bread that completes the meal. The picture is of a household where both husband and wife work together to honor guests who have come to them.

Question 8

How can Abraham’s hospitality in this passage apply to life today?

Accepted Answer

Abraham’s example encourages us to be alert to the needs of others and to welcome people with a ready heart. He does not wait to be asked for help. He sees weary travelers and moves quickly, offering simple things like water, shade, and food. Today this can mean opening our homes when wise, sharing meals, or gladly helping those who cross our path. The focus is not on fancy things, but on a generous spirit that sees guests as sent by God and counts it an honor to serve.

Genesis 18:1

And the Lord appeared unto him in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day;

The Three Visitors

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Genesis 18:1

And the Lord appeared unto him in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day;

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The Three Visitors

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