Day 329

I recall one of the earlier readings mentioned that Paul had to get Timothy circumcised because of the Jews since they all knew Timothy’s father was greek. Now today, we read his message seemingly against circumcision.

The theology issues we have today are also seen as far back as Paul’s days.

Paul is saying that one’s spiritual life is unconnected to the sign of circumcision. In the old testament, every male was circumcised, whether or not he devoted himself to God. In the same Old Testament, there was recognition that physical circumcision was not enough. The Israelites were told to circumcise their hearts by Moses in Deuteronomy 10:16. Jeremiah also preached the need for a circumcision of the heart in Jeremiah 4:4.

I am a bit confused by why Paul says if the people received circumcision, Christ would be of no use to them, and more seen in 5:2–4. But I know that if I had a male child, I would have probably circumcised the child based on what I had heard and what was quoted/pointed to me. If I have a male child now or in the future, that decision would definitely have to come with some conviction.

Anyway, Paul then goes on to talk about the fruits of the spirit and the flesh. This a good reminder to have a heart check. Through God’s spirit, we have good fruits available to us. Though we often forget they are available, we should ask for them and practice them.