Summary of Genesis Chapter 17

Genesis Chapter 17 marks a significant moment in the covenant relationship between God and Abram, as God reaffirms His promises and establishes the covenant of circumcision.

God Renames Abram and Sarai:

When Abram is 99 years old, God appears to him and declares that He is God Almighty (El

Shaddai). God tells Abram to walk before Him faithfully and be blameless.

God changes Abram’s name to Abraham, meaning “father of many nations,” signifying the

promise that he will be the father of a multitude of nations.

God also changes Sarai’s name to Sarah, meaning “princess,” and promises that she will

bear a son, who will be named Isaac.

The Covenant of Circumcision:

God establishes a covenant with Abraham, promising that He will make him exceedingly

fruitful and that nations and kings will come from him.

As a sign of this covenant, God commands Abraham and his descendants to practice

circumcision. Every male among them, including those born in the household or bought with

money, must be circumcised on the eighth day after birth.

This act of circumcision serves as a physical reminder of the covenant between God and

Abraham’s descendants.

God’s Promise of Isaac:

Abraham expresses disbelief at the idea of having a son at his age and questions God about

Ishmael, his son with Hagar. God reassures Abraham that Sarah will bear him a son, Isaac,

and that He will establish His covenant with Isaac and his descendants.

God acknowledges Ishmael and promises to bless him, making him fruitful and multiplying

him greatly, but emphasizes that His covenant will be established with Isaac.

Abraham’s Obedience:

Following God’s instructions, Abraham circumcises himself and all the males in his

household, demonstrating his obedience to God’s command.

Key Themes

• Covenant Relationship: This chapter emphasizes the importance of the covenant between God and Abraham, highlighting God’s faithfulness to His promises and the significance of obedience in the relationship.
• Identity and Purpose: The renaming of Abram and Sarai signifies their new identities and roles in God’s plan. Abraham becomes the father of many nations, and Sarah is recognized as the mother of nations.
• Faith and Trust: Abraham’s initial doubt reflects the human struggle with faith, yet God reassures him of His promises, encouraging believers to trust in God’s timing and plans.
• Sign of the Covenant: Circumcision serves as a physical sign of the covenant, symbolizing the commitment of Abraham and his descendants to God and His promises.

Genesis Chapter 17 is pivotal in the narrative of Abraham and the establishment of the covenant that shapes the identity of the Israelite people. It underscores the themes of faith, obedience, and the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan.