"And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness which he had by faith, even though he was not yet circumcised. So he became the father of all who believe, uncircumcised, so that righteousness might be imputed to them also."
From this perspective, Paul interprets the circumcision instituted in Genesis 17 as a seal of justification by faith.
"Then he gave him the ring of circumcision. And Abraham begat Isaac and circumcised him on the eighth day. Isaac begat Jacob, and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs."
Stephen, in his speech, mentions the covenant of circumcision in Genesis 17, thus testifying to its continuing importance in salvation history.
"I mean this: the law, which came 430 years later, does not annul the covenant previously established by God, so as to make the promise null and void."
Paul refers to the covenant established in Genesis 17, comparing it to the later law, thus affirming the the permanence of the divine promise.
"nor because they are descendants of Abraham, will they all be considered children of Abraham. Rather, 'Through Isaac shall your offspring be counted.'"
In this verse, Paul quotes the promise God made to Abraham about Isaac, highlighting the lineage of the promise.
"as he spoke to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever."
Mary, in her This song recalls the eternal covenant God established with Abraham in Genesis 17, thus emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises throughout the ages.
This chapter of Genesis, rich in meaning, remains a foundation for our understanding of the divine covenant and how it is manifested in our faith today.