Genesis 17 Footnotes

17:1-2 The Abrahamic covenant is in the form of an unconditional contract with Abram and his divinely chosen descendant; ultimately it is guaranteed by the faithfulness of God alone (v. 2). Nevertheless, it has a secondary conditional aspect. To enjoy the full benefits of this covenant, Abram must obey God’s commands. This requirement is seen in the words: “Live in my presence and be blameless” (v. 1).

17:9-14,23-27 Many peoples of OT times practiced circumcision, so it is of religious significance even outside the Judeo-Christian tradition. As Jr 9:25-26 and Rm 2:28-29 make clear, what made circumcision related to the Abrahamic covenant unique was the expectation that the people would be “circumcised in heart” (i.e., trusting the Lord and obedient to the commitment represented by the outward sign of circumcision), not just the flesh.