In this fifth sermon of the “Faith Alone” series, we examine Genesis 17. God takes the sovereign initiative in reaffirming His covenant with Abram (now Abraham), renaming him “father of a multitude,” promising kings and nations from his line, and instituting circumcision as the outward sign of the covenant. This sign is not a means of salvation but a seal of the righteousness already credited by faith (Romans 4). God renames Sarai to Sarah, declares Isaac as the child of promise (not Ishmael), and Abraham responds in immediate, radical obedience by circumcising his household.

This chapter contrasts the unilateral grace of God with human works, showing circumcision as a foreshadowing of the New Covenant sign of baptism, which points to regeneration and a new heart, not magical redemption achieved by works. A convicting call to reject man-made divisions (“us vs. them”) over politics, preferences, or secondary doctrines, and to recognize the only true difference that matters: those who have received undeserved saving grace in Christ versus those who have not. Grace alone tears down proud lines and unites us as one in Him (Galatians 3:28-29), with works as evidence of genuine faith, not its cause