Acts 7:8

KJV

And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so [Abraham] begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac [begat] Jacob; and Jacob [begat] the twelve patriarchs.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} he gave {G1325} him {G846} the covenant {G1242} of circumcision {G4061}: and {G2532} so {G3779} Abraham begat {G1080} Isaac {G2464}, and {G2532} circumcised {G4059} him {G846} the eighth {G3590} day {G2250}; and {G2532} Isaac {G2464} begat Jacob {G2384}; and {G2532} Jacob {G2384} begat the twelve {G1427} patriarchs {G3966}.

Complete Jewish Bible

And he gave him b’rit-milah. So he became the father of Yitz’chak and did his b’rit-milah on the eighth day, and Yitz’chak became the father of Ya‘akov, and Ya‘akov became the father of the Twelve Patriarchs.

Berean Standard Bible

Then God gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision, and Abraham became the father of Isaac and circumcised him on the eighth day. And Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob of the twelve patriarchs.

American Standard Version

And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob, and Jacob the twelve patriarchs.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 7:8, part of Stephen's extensive historical recounting before the Sanhedrin, highlights a pivotal moment in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan: the establishment of the covenant of circumcision with Abraham. This verse meticulously traces the lineage from Abraham through Isaac and Jacob to the twelve patriarchs, underscoring God's unwavering faithfulness in preserving His chosen line and fulfilling His promises across generations, laying the foundational history for the nation of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 7:8 is embedded within Stephen's lengthy defense speech (Acts 7:1-53) before the Sanhedrin, where he is accused of blasphemy against Moses and God, and speaking against the Temple and the Law. Stephen's strategy is to recount Israel's history, demonstrating God's consistent presence and work *outside* the Temple and *before* the Mosaic Law. He begins with Abraham, emphasizing God's initiative in establishing a relationship through covenant and promise, even before the physical land or a fixed dwelling place was given. The mention of the "covenant of circumcision" here serves as a foundational marker, illustrating God's faithfulness in setting apart a people for Himself and fulfilling His promises through successive generations, from Abraham to the twelve patriarchs, thereby building a case for God's broader, non-localized activity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The covenant of circumcision, detailed in [Genesis 17:9-14](/genesis/17-9-14 "Genesis 17:9-14 - The Covenant of Circumcision"), was a divinely instituted sign marking Abraham and his male descendants as belonging to God's covenant people. It was a physical, indelible sign of their unique relationship with Yahweh. The practice of circumcising on the "eighth day" was a specific divine command (see [Leviticus 12:3](/leviticus/12-3 "Leviticus 12:3 - Law of Circumcision")), deeply ingrained in Jewish identity and practice. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, lineage was paramount, determining identity, inheritance, and tribal affiliation. Stephen's careful tracing of the patriarchal line—Abraham to Isaac, Isaac to Jacob, and Jacob to the twelve patriarchs—would resonate deeply with his Jewish audience, affirming the historical continuity and divine preservation of their national identity.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within Stephen's speech and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Faithfulness** to covenant promises, demonstrating God's commitment to His chosen people despite their future rebellions. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Covenant and Election**, showing how God sovereignly chose Abraham and his descendants, setting them apart through a visible sign. Thirdly, the meticulous tracing of the **Patriarchal Lineage** emphasizes God's providential hand in preserving the promised seed through whom the nation of Israel would emerge, and ultimately, the Messiah. This lineage is crucial for understanding the continuity of God's redemptive plan, as seen in the genealogies presented in the New Testament (e.g., [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1-17 "Matthew 1:1-17 - Genealogy of Jesus") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23-38 "Luke 3:23-38 - Genealogy of Jesus")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **covenant (Greek, _diathḗkē'_):** G1242. From *diatíthemai*, meaning "to dispose" or "to arrange." This term primarily denotes a divine disposition or arrangement, often implying a testament or a will. Unlike a bilateral contract (*synthēkē*), *diathḗkē* emphasizes God's sovereign initiative and the unilateral nature of His promises and terms, highlighting that the covenant of circumcision was not a negotiated agreement but a divine decree graciously given by God to Abraham.
* **begat (Greek, _gennáō'_):** G1080. This verb signifies "to procreate," primarily referring to the father's role in begetting offspring, but by extension, also the mother's role in bearing. Figuratively, it can mean "to regenerate." In Acts 7:8, its repeated use underscores the direct, biological continuity of the promised lineage, emphasizing God's faithfulness in bringing forth the descendants through whom His covenant promises would be realized, generation after generation.
* **patriarchs (Greek, _patriárchēs'_):** G3966. Derived from *patria* (family/tribe) and *archō* (to rule/lead), this term refers to the revered heads of a family or tribe, the progenitors of a nation. In this context, it specifically refers to the twelve sons of Jacob, who became the foundational heads of the twelve tribes of Israel. Stephen's use of this term elevates their status, acknowledging their pivotal role in the formation and identity of the nation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he gave him the covenant of circumcision:"** This opening clause immediately establishes God's initiative and sovereignty. It was God ("he") who *gave* (G1325, *dídōmi*, "to give, bestow") this covenant to Abraham, not something Abraham earned or initiated. The "covenant of circumcision" (G1242, *diathḗkē* of G4061, *peritomḗ*) is presented as a divine gift and a foundational marker of God's unique relationship with Abraham and his descendants, signifying their set-apart status.
* **"and so [Abraham] begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day;"** This clause details the first fulfillment of the covenant within Abraham's own family. The phrase "and so" (G3779, *hoútō*, "in this way") links the subsequent action directly to the covenant, showing its immediate implementation. Abraham's begetting of Isaac (G2464, *Isaák*) is presented as a direct result of God's promise. The specific detail of Isaac being "circumcised him the eighth day" (G3590, *ógdoos* G2250, *hēméra*) highlights obedience to the precise divine command given in [Genesis 17:12](/genesis/17-12 "Genesis 17:12 - Command for Circumcision on the Eighth Day"), underscoring the importance of adherence to God's instructions within the covenant.
* **"and Isaac [begat] Jacob; and Jacob [begat] the twelve patriarchs."** This final clause efficiently traces the continuation of the divinely chosen lineage. The repeated verb "begat" (G1080, *gennáō*) emphasizes the direct, unbroken succession. From Isaac (G2464, *Isaák*) came Jacob (G2384, *Iakṓb*), and from Jacob came the "twelve patriarchs" (G1427, *dṓdeka* G3966, *patriárchēs*), who are the foundational progenitors of the twelve tribes of Israel. This progression highlights God's faithfulness in preserving and multiplying Abraham's seed, leading to the formation of the nation through whom the promises would continue to unfold.

#### Literary Devices
Stephen's speech, including Acts 7:8, employs several literary techniques to achieve its persuasive and didactic aims. The most prominent is **Historical Narrative**, as Stephen systematically recounts key events in Israel's past to build his argument. Within this narrative, **Anaphora** and **Repetition** are evident in the repeated use of "begat" (Greek, *gennáō*), which serves to emphasize the continuous, divinely ordained succession of the patriarchal line. This repetition creates a rhythmic, almost genealogical cadence, underscoring the unbroken chain of promise and fulfillment from Abraham to the twelve tribes. Furthermore, the detailed enumeration of the lineage (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, the twelve patriarchs) functions as a form of **Emphasis**, drawing attention to the divine preservation of the chosen seed, which is central to God's redemptive plan. The inclusion of specific details like "the eighth day" adds **Verisimilitude** and reinforces the historical accuracy and divine authority of the events being recounted.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 7:8 serves as a profound theological statement on God's unwavering covenant faithfulness and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through chosen lineage. The "covenant of circumcision" symbolizes God's initiative in setting apart a people for Himself, establishing a visible sign of an invisible spiritual reality. This act demonstrates that God's relationship with humanity is rooted in His sovereign grace and promise, not human merit. The meticulous tracing of the patriarchal line—Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the twelve patriarchs—underscores the continuity of God's purpose and His commitment to His promises, even across generations. This historical foundation lays the groundwork for understanding the broader narrative of salvation history, where God progressively reveals His plan, culminating in the ultimate Seed of Abraham, Jesus Christ. It teaches us that God's work is methodical, purposeful, and deeply rooted in His character as a covenant-keeping God.

* [Genesis 17:9-14](/genesis/17-9-14 "Genesis 17:9-14 - The Covenant of Circumcision")
* [Romans 2:28-29](/romans/2-28-29 "Romans 2:28-29 - True Circumcision of the Heart")
* [Galatians 3:6-9](/galatians/3-6-9 "Galatians 3:6-9 - Abraham's Faith and Righteousness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 7:8, while recounting ancient history, holds profound implications for believers today. It reminds us that God is a God of covenant, utterly faithful to His promises across all generations. Just as He meticulously guided the lineage from Abraham to the twelve patriarchs, He continues to work out His purposes in the lives of His people. This verse challenges us to consider the nature of our own belonging to God's family. The physical mark of circumcision in the Old Covenant pointed to an internal reality of being set apart for God. For us, true belonging is not based on external rites or lineage, but on an internal transformation—a "circumcision of the heart" that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. This passage encourages us to trust in God's faithfulness, to recognize His hand in our own spiritual heritage, and to live as those who are truly set apart by His grace, reflecting His character and purposes in the world. It calls us to consider how we are stewarding the spiritual legacy passed down through generations of faith.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Stephen's emphasis on God's initiative in giving the covenant challenge our understanding of our relationship with God?**
* **In what ways does the detailed tracing of the patriarchal lineage in Acts 7:8 encourage your trust in God's long-term faithfulness and His unfolding plan?**
* **How can we, as New Covenant believers, live out the spiritual reality of being "set apart" for God, mirroring the Old Testament covenant sign of circumcision?**
* **What "spiritual legacy" has been passed down to you, and how are you stewarding it for future generations of faith?**

### FAQ
**Why is the "covenant of circumcision" so important in Stephen's speech?**

Answer: The "covenant of circumcision" (referencing [Genesis 17](/genesis/17 "Genesis 17 - The Covenant of Circumcision")) is crucial in Stephen's speech because it establishes God's relationship with Israel from its earliest beginnings, long before the Mosaic Law or the Temple. Stephen uses this to demonstrate that God's covenant with His people predates and is not confined to the physical structures or legal codes that his accusers held as ultimate. It highlights God's faithfulness and His sovereign choice of Abraham and his descendants, showing that God's work has always been dynamic and progressive, not static or limited to specific institutions.

**What is the significance of Isaac being circumcised on the "eighth day"?**

Answer: The detail that Isaac was circumcised on the "eighth day" is significant because it directly adheres to God's specific command given to Abraham in [Genesis 17:12](/genesis/17-12 "Genesis 17:12 - Command for Circumcision on the Eighth Day") and later codified in the Law (e.g., [Leviticus 12:3](/leviticus/12-3 "Leviticus 12:3 - Law Concerning Circumcision")). This detail underscores the obedience of the patriarchs to God's divine instructions and reinforces the foundational nature of this covenant sign. Beyond its religious significance, it also holds a practical dimension, as modern medical science affirms that blood clotting factors are optimally developed in an infant around the eighth day, making it a safe time for such a procedure.

**How does this verse relate to Stephen's overall argument in Acts 7?**

Answer: Acts 7:8 is a foundational piece of Stephen's broader historical argument in [Acts 7](/acts/7 "Acts 7 - Stephen's Speech"). By starting with Abraham and the covenant of circumcision, Stephen establishes a pattern: God initiates His relationship with His people, often in unexpected ways and places (e.g., Abraham in Mesopotamia, not Israel; God appearing to Moses in the wilderness, not the Temple). This historical survey aims to show that God's presence and activity are not limited to the Temple or the Law, which were central to the accusations against him. He subtly builds a case that Israel has historically resisted God's appointed leaders and messengers, foreshadowing their rejection of Jesus, the ultimate Prophet and Messiah, and their resistance to the Holy Spirit.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 7:8, with its focus on the covenant of circumcision and the patriarchal lineage, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The physical sign of circumcision, given to Abraham as a mark of belonging to God's people, foreshadowed a deeper, spiritual reality. In the New Covenant, this physical rite is superseded by the "circumcision of the heart," which is not performed by human hands but by the Spirit of God (as articulated in [Romans 2:29](/romans/2-29 "The True Jew and Circumcision of the Heart")). This spiritual circumcision signifies a radical inner transformation, a cutting away of the sinful nature, which is accomplished through faith in Christ (as taught in [Colossians 2:11-12](/colossians/2-11-12 "Spiritual Circumcision in Christ")). Furthermore, the meticulous tracing of the patriarchal lineage—Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the twelve patriarchs—culminates in Jesus. He is the ultimate "Seed" of Abraham, through whom all the promises made to Abraham find their "Yes" and "Amen" ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "The Seed of Abraham is Christ"); [2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "God's Promises are Yes in Christ")). Christ is the true Israel, the perfect Son who embodies the covenant faithfulness that Israel often failed to uphold. Through His atoning sacrifice and resurrection, He establishes a new covenant, a spiritual family not based on physical descent or external rites, but on faith in Him, making all who believe, whether Jew or Gentile, children of Abraham by faith ([Galatians 3:29](/galatians/3-29 "Heirs According to the Promise")). Thus, Acts 7:8 points forward to the comprehensive and inclusive work of Christ, who brings the covenant promises to their glorious spiritual fruition.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 17:9

And God said unto Abraham, Thou shalt keep my covenant therefore, thou, and thy seed after thee in their generations.

Genesis 17:14

And the uncircumcised man child whose flesh of his foreskin is not circumcised, that soul shall be cut off from his people; he hath broken my covenant.

Genesis 35:23

The sons of Leah; Reuben, Jacob's firstborn, and Simeon, and Levi, and Judah, and Issachar, and Zebulun:

Genesis 35:26

And the sons of Zilpah, Leah's handmaid; Gad, and Asher: these [are] the sons of Jacob, which were born to him in Padanaram.

Genesis 35:16

¶ And they journeyed from Bethel; and there was but a little way to come to Ephrath: and Rachel travailed, and she had hard labour.

Acts 2:29

Men [and] brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.

Romans 9:9

For this [is] the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sara shall have a son.