Lenten Season · 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
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 Working Preacher
A commentary on the covenant with Abraham and the renaming of Abram and Sarai.
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 Center for Excellence in Preaching
A Reformed commentary treating covenant as the Year B theme of Lent.
Genesis 17 Enduring Word · David Guzik
An evangelical verse-by-verse study of God's covenant and the sign of circumcision.
Genesis 17 resources Precept Austin
An evangelical study resource gathering cross-references and word studies.
Classic commentaries on Genesis 17 BibleHub
Aggregates classic commentaries on the covenant passage verse by verse.
Background & Word Study
God's Covenant with Abraham Theology of Work
Explores covenant as a sacred mutual commitment shaping Abraham's life and work.
Genesis 17 in Hebrew, with Jewish commentary Sefaria
The Hebrew text with classical rabbinic commentary on the chapter.
Genesis Enter the Bible
A background overview of the book's themes and structure.
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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