Genesis 17:11

You are to circumcise the flesh of your foreskin, and this will be a sign of the covenant between Me and you.

Study Bible

You are to undergo circumcision
The Hebrew word for "circumcision" is "מִילָה" (milah), which means "to cut" or "to cut around." This act was a physical sign of the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants. Historically, circumcision was not unique to the Israelites; it was practiced by various ancient cultures. However, in the context of Genesis, it takes on a profound spiritual significance. It symbolizes the cutting away of the flesh, representing a commitment to live a life set apart for God. This act of obedience was a tangible expression of faith and dedication, marking the Israelites as God's chosen people. In the New Testament, circumcision becomes a metaphor for the spiritual transformation of the heart (Romans 2:29), emphasizing the importance of inner purity and devotion to God.

and it will be the sign
The word "sign" in Hebrew is "אוֹת" (oth), which means a mark, token, or symbol. In biblical terms, a sign is a visible representation of an invisible reality. Circumcision served as a perpetual reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people. It was a physical manifestation of a spiritual promise, much like the rainbow was a sign of God's covenant with Noah. This sign was not just for the individual but for the entire community, reinforcing their collective identity and commitment to God's laws and promises.

of the covenant
The Hebrew word for "covenant" is "בְּרִית" (berith), which signifies a solemn agreement or promise. In the ancient Near Eastern context, covenants were binding agreements between parties, often sealed with a physical sign or ritual. God's covenant with Abraham was unilateral, initiated by God Himself, and it was everlasting. This covenant included promises of land, descendants, and blessings, ultimately pointing to the coming of the Messiah. The covenant was not just a legal contract but a relational bond, underscoring God's faithfulness and love for His people.

between Me and you
This phrase highlights the personal and relational nature of the covenant. It was not merely a national or communal agreement but a personal commitment between God and Abraham, and by extension, his descendants. The use of "Me and you" emphasizes the intimacy and directness of God's relationship with His people. It reflects the personal nature of faith, where each individual is called to respond to God's invitation and live in accordance with His will. This personal relationship is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, culminating in the New Testament with the personal relationship believers have with God through Jesus Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God (Yahweh)
The covenant-maker who establishes a sign of His promise with Abraham and his descendants.

2. Abraham
The patriarch chosen by God to be the father of many nations, receiving the covenant promise.

3. Circumcision
The physical act and sign of the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants.

4. Covenant
A solemn agreement between God and Abraham, signifying a lasting relationship and promise.

5. Descendants of Abraham
The future generations who are to uphold the covenant through the practice of circumcision.

Teaching Points

Sign of the Covenant
Circumcision was a physical sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, symbolizing a deeper spiritual truth of belonging to God.

Obedience to God's Commands
Abraham's willingness to undergo circumcision and to circumcise his household demonstrates obedience and faith in God's promises.

Spiritual Significance
In the New Testament, circumcision is seen as a metaphor for the cutting away of sin and living a life dedicated to God.

Faith and Righteousness
Abraham's faith was credited to him as righteousness before the act of circumcision, highlighting that faith, not works, is the basis of righteousness.

Continuity and Fulfillment
The covenant with Abraham finds its fulfillment in Christ, who brings a new covenant that includes all believers, Jew and Gentile alike.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of circumcision serve as a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, and what does it symbolize for us today?

2. In what ways does the New Testament reinterpret the concept of circumcision, and how does this affect our understanding of faith and works?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience demonstrated by Abraham in our own lives when God calls us to act?

4. What does it mean to have a "circumcised heart" as described in the New Testament, and how can we cultivate this in our spiritual walk?

5. How does the covenant with Abraham connect to the broader account of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:1-3
The initial promise to Abraham, where God calls him to leave his country and promises to make him a great nation.

Romans 4:11
Paul discusses circumcision as a sign of the righteousness that Abraham had by faith before he was circumcised.

Galatians 5:6
Paul emphasizes that in Christ, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has value, but faith expressing itself through love.

Colossians 2:11-12
Paul speaks of a spiritual circumcision in Christ, not done by human hands, symbolizing the putting off of the sinful nature.