Matthew Henry Commentary Genesis 18:16-22

"And the men rose up from thence, and looked toward Sodom: and Abraham went with them to bring them on the way. And Jehovah said, Shall I hide from Abraham that which I do; seeing that Abraham had surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? For I have known him, to the end that he may command his children and his household after him, that they may keep the way of Jehovah, to do righteousness and justice; to the end that Jehovah may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him. And Jehovah said, Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous; I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know. And the men turned from thence, and went toward Sodom: but Abraham stood yet before Jehovah." — Genesis 18:16-22 (ASV)

The two who are understood to be angels went toward Sodom. The one who is called Jehovah throughout the chapter remained with Abraham and would not hide from him what He intended to do. Though God is patient with sinners for a long time, leading them to imagine that the Lord does not see and does not pay attention, yet when the day of His wrath comes, He will indeed turn His attention to them.

The Lord would give Abraham an opportunity to intercede with Him, and He showed him the reason for His conduct. Consider, as a very notable aspect of Abraham's character and example, that he not only prayed with his family but was also very careful to teach and govern them well. Those who expect family blessings must be diligent in their family duties.

Abraham did not fill their minds with matters of doubtful dispute; instead, he taught them to be serious and devout in the worship of God and to be honest in their dealings with everyone. How few in our days can be described in such a way! How little care is taken by heads of households to ground those under their care in the principles of religion!

Do we observe from Sabbath to Sabbath whether they are progressing or regressing?