Lent · Second Sunday in Lent · Year B
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16
The Covenant of Circumcision
February 21, 2027
Overview & Insights
“I will establish my covenant… to be God to you and to your offspring after you.” (Genesis 17:7)
A year before the birth of the promised son, Yahweh strengthens the relationship with Abram by renewing their covenant. Covenant is central to this narrative: “my covenant” occurs nine times (vv. 2, 4, 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 19, 21) and “covenant” four times (vv. 7, 11, 13, 19). The use of the word “everlasting” captures God’s firm resolution to establish a people through Abram. That word occurs three times with covenant (vv. 7, 13, 19) and once with possession (v. 8).
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Commentary
Commentary on Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 Working Preacher
This is the exact Lent 2B first reading in the RCL, so the Luther Seminary commentary treats the covenant of Abraham and Sarah head on.
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 - Center for Excellence in Preaching Center for Excellence in Preaching
Scott Hoezee's Reformed preaching commentary on the everlasting covenant and the new names given to Abraham and Sarah.
Genesis 17 Commentary: The Covenant of Circumcision Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik walks the whole chapter, from El Shaddai's appearing to the renaming of Abram and Sarai.
Genesis 17 Commentary Precept Austin
A verse-by-verse study hub gathering word notes, cross references, and quotes on the covenant with Abraham.
Genesis 17:1 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentators compared side by side on 'I am God Almighty; walk before me and be blameless.'
Background & Word Study
God's Covenant with Abraham Theology of Work
Background on the covenant promise and how it shapes a life of blessing and trust.
Genesis 17 in Hebrew, with Jewish commentary Sefaria
The Hebrew text of the covenant chapter with Rashi and other Jewish commentators alongside.
Genesis 17:1 Interlinear BibleHub
The Hebrew of the covenant appearing word by word with parsing and Strong's numbers.
Genesis | Enter the Bible Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary's introduction to Genesis and the ancestral covenant narratives.
The Church Fathers
Questions preachers ask
What is the covenant of circumcision?
God renews his promise to Abraham, gives him a new name, and seals the covenant with circumcision, pledging to be God to him and his offspring forever.
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