Genesis 17:27

And all the men of Abraham's household--both servants born in his household and those purchased from foreigners--were circumcised with him.

Study Bible

And all the men of his household
This phrase emphasizes the inclusivity and unity within Abraham's household. The Hebrew word for "household" is "bayith," which can refer to a physical house or a family unit. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a household was not just a nuclear family but included extended family, servants, and others under the patriarch's care. This reflects the comprehensive nature of God's covenant with Abraham, extending beyond just his immediate family to all who were part of his life and influence.

both servants born in his household
The phrase highlights the distinction between those naturally part of Abraham's household and those who were not. The Hebrew word for "servants" is "ebed," which can mean servant, slave, or bondman. This indicates a social structure where individuals born into the household were considered part of the family unit, sharing in its blessings and responsibilities. It underscores the idea that God's covenant was not limited by social status or birthright but was inclusive of all who were part of Abraham's community.

and those purchased from foreigners
This phrase refers to individuals who were not originally part of Abraham's household but were brought in from outside. The Hebrew word for "purchased" is "qanah," meaning to acquire or buy. This reflects the practice of acquiring servants or slaves from other nations, which was common in the ancient world. The inclusion of these individuals in the covenant through circumcision signifies the breaking down of ethnic and cultural barriers, foreshadowing the New Testament message of the gospel being available to all nations.

were circumcised with him
Circumcision was the physical sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, as established earlier in Genesis 17. The Hebrew word for "circumcised" is "mul," which means to cut or to circumcise. This act was a profound symbol of obedience and faith, marking those who participated as part of God's chosen people. The phrase "with him" indicates that Abraham led by example, undergoing circumcision himself and ensuring that all under his authority did the same. This act of collective obedience highlights the importance of leadership and community in the faith journey, as well as the willingness to submit to God's commands as a unified body.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
The patriarch of the Israelites, who received God's covenant and was commanded to circumcise all males in his household as a sign of this covenant.

2. Ishmael
Abraham's son with Hagar, who was also circumcised as part of the covenant.

3. Household Servants
These include both those born in Abraham's household and those purchased from foreigners, indicating the inclusivity of the covenant.

4. Covenant of Circumcision
A significant event where God established circumcision as a physical sign of His covenant with Abraham and his descendants.

5. Hebron
The region where Abraham was residing at the time, a place of significant biblical events.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Abraham's immediate compliance with God's command to circumcise all males in his household demonstrates his obedience and faith. We are called to obey God's commands, trusting in His promises.

Inclusivity of God's Covenant
The inclusion of both those born in the household and those purchased from foreigners shows that God's covenant is not limited by ethnicity or social status. This foreshadows the New Testament teaching that the gospel is for all people.

Significance of Covenant Signs
Circumcision was a physical sign of a spiritual reality. In the New Testament, baptism serves a similar role, symbolizing our identification with Christ.

Faith and Works
Abraham's faith was demonstrated through his actions. Our faith should also be evident in our obedience and actions.

Spiritual Circumcision
In Christ, believers experience a spiritual circumcision, a cutting away of the sinful nature. This calls us to live a life set apart for God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abraham's obedience in circumcising his household challenge us in our own walk of faith and obedience to God?

2. In what ways does the inclusivity of Abraham's household in the covenant reflect the New Testament teaching on the inclusivity of the gospel?

3. How can we understand the significance of physical signs of faith, like circumcision and baptism, in our spiritual journey?

4. What does it mean to experience a "spiritual circumcision" in Christ, and how should this impact our daily lives?

5. How can we ensure that our faith is demonstrated through our actions, as seen in Abraham's example?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12
God's initial call and promise to Abraham, setting the stage for the covenant of circumcision.

Exodus 12
The Passover regulations, which also required circumcision for participation, showing continuity in God's covenantal signs.

Romans 4
Paul discusses Abraham's faith and righteousness, emphasizing that circumcision was a sign of the faith he already had.

Galatians 3
Paul explains that those who have faith are children of Abraham, highlighting the spiritual aspect of the covenant.

Colossians 2
Paul speaks of a spiritual circumcision in Christ, connecting the physical act to a deeper spiritual reality.