Joseph Benson's Commentary of the Old and New Testaments - Genesis 17:4
Genesis 17:4. The promise is here introduced with solemnity: As for me, saith the great God, behold Admire, and be assured of it; my covenant is with thee; and thou shalt be a father of many nations This implies, 1st, That his seed after the flesh should be very numerous, both in Isaac and in Ishmael, and in the sons of Keturah. And the event answered; for there have been, and are, more of the children of men descended from Abraham, than from any one man at an equal distance with him... read more
Joseph Benson's Commentary of the Old and New Testaments - Genesis 17:3
Genesis 17:3. And Abram fell on his face while God talked with him Either, 1st, As one overcome by the brightness of the divine glory; as Daniel and John also were. Or, 2d, As one ashamed of himself, and blushing to think of the honours done to one so unworthy. He looks upon himself with humility, and upon God with reverence; and, in token of both, falls on his face. read more