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.
God made a covenant with Abraham that involved circumcision as the sign. So Abraham had Isaac and circumcised him on the eighth day, just like God said. Then Isaac had Jacob, and Jacob had twelve sons who became the founding fathers of the twelve tribes.
God's promises get passed down through generations, one family at a time.
📚 Historical Context
In the Book of Acts, Stephen is delivering a speech to the Jewish council during his trial, recounting the history of Israel to highlight God's faithfulness and to defend his faith. This verse draws from the story in Genesis where God established the covenant of circumcision with Abraham as a sign of His promise to make Abraham's descendants into a great nation. It traces the lineage from Abraham through Isaac and Jacob to the twelve patriarchs, emphasizing the continuity of God's promises to His people.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.