Circumcision Of The Heart

“For circumcision has its value if you practice the law, but if you break the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision. Therefore if the uncircumcised man obeys the righteous requirements of the law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision? And the physically uncircumcised man, by keeping the law, will judge you to be the transgressor of the law, even though you have the letter and circumcision! For a person is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision something that is outward in the flesh, but someone is a Jew who is one inwardly, and circumcision is of the heart by the Spirit and not by the letter. This person’s praise is not from people but from God.” Romans 2:25-29 NET”

The argument that true circumcision is not an outward sign but an inward change of the heart. Paul makes his case that if circumcision, the cutting of the flesh, was the only thing that was required, then what about the necessity of obeying the law? The law has its place and requirements, which are more than the outward observances. Like being a Jew wasn’t just a cultural belief, in God’s eyes, it was an inward change by allowing the Spirit to form and change a person into a child of God.

Physical circumcision, which marks the male reproductive organ, holds no more physical significance than a tattoo or another external symbol. True circumcision occurs within the heart or mind, and this remarkable transformation or perspective is evident in those who exhibit the fruits of the Spirit. As God promised through Ezekiel, He will take away your hearts of stone and give you hearts of flesh. This process involves paring away the callousness that has long surrounded their hearts, allowing them to embrace a renewed state of tenderness and responsiveness to His will, embracing deeper feelings and a more compassionate response to God and others.

Circumcision of the heart does not come by observing laws, rules, and ordinances; it comes by a tender heart willing to change and be formed by the Spirit of God. Though physical circumcision was a painful process that took time to heal, it was usually performed upon an infant at around eight days of age. Unfortunately, this did not equate to a heart matter with an infant, only cultural significance. When a child grows up, he is exposed to the law to train them in the ways of God. Very rarely did the law transcend into anything more profound than the physical observance of the law.

Paul repeats this message about the Jews adherence to circumcision several times in the epistles, the reason is because he wanted to make clear that their need to hold on to some ancient ritual was less critical for their identity than receiving Jesus as the fulfillment of the law, Jesus was the one who brings to the actual cutting of the flesh so that all are made pure before God.

The English word “sex” traces back to the Latin word “secare,” which means to sever, amputate, or disconnect from the whole. This fascinating origin sheds light on a vital part of our relationships: our awareness of how severed we are. Interestingly, circumcision in a similar fashion involves the sexual organ and the removal or separation of the outer sheath of skin relating to our sexual identity and recognizes our nature as sexual beings made in God’s image with the innate need for reconnection with another. This insight encourages a deeper appreciation of how we were created with our need for connections, emphasizing the beauty of our desire for intimacy and understanding.

Paul beautifully reminds us that while our identity is intricately linked to our sexuality, its richest expression is found in connection with Christ. Instead of merely reconnecting our severed human nature in the flesh, our relationship with Jesus brings about a profound change, leading us to experience a deep sense of completeness and unity with Him. This powerful truth assures us that we are more than just connected; we are joyfully united in Christ as a single body—the Church. Jesus works through us in this vibrant unity, enriching our lives and relationships in genuinely transformative ways!

This is the person Paul is describing who receives a circumcision of the heart; they have experienced a cutting, a severing. Which is why Paul says we are no longer citizens of this world, “But our citizenship is in heaven—and we also eagerly await a savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform these humble bodies of ours into the likeness of his glorious body by means of that power by which he is able to subject all things to himself.” Phillippians 3:20-21 NET

Paul’s critique of circumcision reveals his urgent desire for believers to grasp its profound significance. He urges them not to regard it simply as a cultural ritual. He underscores that it represents a transformative transaction in one’s heart and mind.

Consider the moment when God put Adam to sleep to create a woman—a powerful act of cutting that took place. We were literally drawn from Adam’s side and made anew. Although God closed Adam’s side, a woman was brought forth, representing a new creation and a vital companion for him. Likewise, when Jesus was crucified, His piercing exemplified another profound cutting, from which the Church—the bride of Christ—was created. We have always been concealed within His side, made to become His beloved bride, embodying an intimate and cherished relationship as the bride of Christ.

With Paul, there is a lot not being said; there’s an intriguing depth to discuss regarding circumcision, which he views not as a trivial matter but as a significant act filled with rich meaning. It’s a concept that carries profound implications for those who understand the nature of cutting a covenant. An excellent illustration of this can be found in the Old Testament, specifically in Genesis 15:17-18, where we witness God’s covenant with Abram. This powerful moment involves God passing through parts of cut animals alone. Unlike the usual practice involving both parties walking between the pieces together, this act is a striking testament to the immense value of God’s promise to Abram.

The phrase, “May this happen to me if I fail to keep this covenant and may this happen to me if you fail to keep this covenant,” is particularly remarkable. Abram is not a party to the covenant; he has entered a deep sleep or trance as God passes between the cut animal pieces. God takes full responsibility for the covenant upon Himself. It’s not about doubting God’s faithfulness, as we can trust Him entirely in upholding His promises. What indeed calls for our attention is Abram’s responsibilities within this covenant relationship.

In Genesis 17, Abram’s role begins to take shape clearly with what is expected of him. God instructs him to “walk before me and be blameless.” This beautiful directive emphasizes Abram’s role as a messenger and representative of God. He is called to exemplify what it means to live and walk in harmony with God, showcasing the divine purpose that God has for humanity.

So, what exactly does God require from Abram in this significant responsibility? Abram is commanded to embody blamelessness. He is encouraged to be morally upright, sincere, and genuine in his commitment to the covenant. This is a truly important calling, which reflects the weight of accountability that comes with it. God put Himself on the line for Abram and future generations that would come through him; God’s reputation was at stake.

In retrospect, we can ponder an inspiring question: Did Abram rise to this challenge? Did he faithfully represent God to the surrounding nations? Though he encountered obstacles and moments of weakness, such as when he misrepresented his wife Sarah in Egypt or made the difficult decision to involve Hagar in bearing a child, these trials serve as poignant tests of faith. Through it all, Abram’s journey illustrates unwavering faith and believing loyalty, highlighting his dedication to God. Ultimately, he is celebrated as a friend of God, a remarkable testament to resilience and faithfulness.

Stephen Barnett