Gen 17:15-21 | TNotes | STEP | Summary for Gen 17:15-16: 17:15-16 Sarah: The new name, fitting for one who would be the mother of kings, was a milestone in Sarah’s calling and brought attention to the promise.

a17:15-16►

b17:17-18►

e17:20-21►

f25:13-16►

‏ Genesis 17:15-21

Summary for Gen 17:15-16: 17:15-16 ^a Sarah: The new name, fitting for one who would be the mother of kings, was a milestone in Sarah’s calling and brought attention to the promise.
Summary for Gen 17:17-18: 17:17-18 ^b Abraham laughed (Hebrew yitskhaq) because the promise seemed unbelievable; he had begun to believe that his line would come through Ishmael. But Abraham and Sarah would have a son of their own.
17:19 ^c The name Isaac (Hebrew yitskhaq, “he laughs”) would constantly recall Abraham’s disbelieving laughter when he heard the promise. It was also a reminder of God’s favor and his pleasure in the birth (cp. 21:6 ^d).
Summary for Gen 17:20-21: 17:20-21 ^e Ishmael would not be abandoned; his family would prosper (see 25:13-16 ^f), but the covenant promises were for Isaac.