Key Verse Spotlight
Genesis 17:20 — Meaning and Application
Understand how this verse speaks to what you're facing—and how to apply it today
King James Version
" And as for Ishmael, I have heard thee: Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly; twelve princes shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation. "
Genesis 17:20
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
And Abraham said unto God, O that Ishmael might live before thee!
And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his seed after him.
And as for Ishmael, I have heard thee: Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly; twelve princes shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation.
But my covenant will I establish with Isaac, which Sarah shall bear unto thee at this set time in the next year.
And he left off talking with him, and God went up from Abraham.
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Genesis 1-11: The Story Begins
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Creation and Calling
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Genesis 17:1
"And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect."
Genesis 17:1
"When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord came to him, and said, I am God, Ruler of all; go in my ways and be upright in all things,"
Genesis 17:2
"And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee exceedingly."
Genesis 17:3
"And Abram fell on his face: and God talked with him, saying,"
Genesis 17:4
"As for me, behold, my covenant is with thee, and thou shalt be a father of many nations."
Genesis 17:5
"Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee."
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