Genesis 17:7-14 – The Sign of the Covenant
God has established a covenant with Abraham that will continue forever. It will not die with Abraham, but it is a covenant with his descendants – not just his biological children, but those who believe and trust in God are also Abraham’s children, and this covenant is with them as well. This is an everlasting covenant that is in God’s mind from before time began and will carry on into all eternity.
What is this everlasting covenant that God makes with Abraham and his descendants? It is a covenant of promises. First, God promises to be their God. His wisdom will guide them; His power will protect them; and His goodness will take care of them. The second promise is that Canaan will be their everlasting possession. This Canaan is a picture that makes them look forward to heaven, the everlasting possession of the people of God.
What is the sign that Abraham agrees to and will keep this covenant? Circumcision. This sign reminds them of God’s promises – both of Canaan on earth and a heavenly Canaan. This sign requires them to accept the covenant, agree to it, get rid of sin in their lives, and obey God’s commands. Circumcision is for men only as heads of families, but women are included in the covenant. Infants are circumcised as part of the covenant-keeping family, and those who break the covenant by refusing or neglecting to be circumcised are no longer part of God’s people. The sign that Abraham’s spiritual seed will keep covenant with God is baptism.
Questions
- Who is God’s covenant with Abraham?
- What is the sign of this covenant?
Prayer Points
- Pray that our covenant children will be covenant-keepers.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.