Summary of Genesis 17:9-14; 23-27
God instructed Abraham to be circumcised, including those born in the household and those who are not his offspring. This is an outward sign of the covenant between God and Abraham. This distinguished Abraham’s male descendants from other people as these people are set apart for God. Abraham did exactly what he was told.
Questions
How did God relate the sign of circumcision to His covenant? Circumcision is an outward sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, that these people are set apart for God, and God Almighty is their God.
What does Abraham’s response in verses 23-27 suggest about him and his household? Abraham and his household believe and obey God’s command. This obedience shows their faith in God.
What does Abraham show us about the right relationship between faith and works? Abraham was instructed and it was not just head knowledge or take it as a good suggestion from God. But he put it into action, he told the entire household what God has told him, and lead everyone to obey the command.
God appeared before Abraham to confirm His covenant