Genesis 17:1-9

Covenant Circumcision

1 When Abram was 99 years old, the Lord appeared to him, saying, "I am God Almighty.[a] Live in My presence and be devout.[b]
2 I will establish My covenant between Me and you, and I will multiply you greatly."
3 Then Abram fell to the ground,[c] and God spoke with him:
4 "As for Me, My covenant is with you, and you will become the father of many nations.[d]
5 Your name will no longer be Abram,[e] but your name will be Abraham,[f] for I will make you the father of many nations.[g]
6 I will make you extremely fruitful and will make nations and kings come from you.
7 I will keep My covenant between Me and you, and your offspring after you throughout their generations, as an everlasting covenant to be your God and the [God] of your offspring after you.
8 And to you and your offspring after you I will give the land where you are residing-all the land of Canaan-as an eternal possession, and I will be their God."
9 God also said to Abraham, "As for you, you and your offspring after you throughout their generations are to keep My covenant.

Footnotes 7

  • [a]. Gn 28:3; 35:11; Ex 6:3
  • [b]. Gn 6:9; Ps 15:2; Lk 1:6
  • [c]. Lit fell on his face
  • [d]. Abraham was father not only of the Israelites, but also of the Ishmaelites, the Edomites, and the Midianites. Spiritually, he is the father of all believers; Gl 3:7,29.
  • [e]. The Father Is Exalted
  • [f]. Father of a Multitude
  • [g]. Rm 4:17-18
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