John Calvin Commentary Genesis 18:17

"And Jehovah said, Shall I hide from Abraham that which I do;" — Genesis 18:17 (ASV)

Shall I hide from Abraham? Since God here consults, as if about a doubtful matter, He does it for the sake of people; for He had already determined what He would do.

But He intended, in this way, to make Abraham more intent on considering the causes of Sodom’s destruction. He presents two reasons why He wished to reveal His design to Abraham before He carried it out.

The first is that He had already granted him a uniquely honorable privilege; the second, that it would be useful and beneficial for instructing future generations. Therefore, this expression briefly notes the scope and purpose of revelation.