What Did Jesus Say About Circumcision
Today we will talk about what did Jesus say about circumcision. Many Christians do not know what this means. Circumcision has deep roots in Jewish tradition and is mentioned in various scriptures throughout the Bible. It was a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, marking the beginning of a special relationship with the chosen people of Israel. As we discuss this topic, we will look at how Jesus addressed the issue of circumcision during His ministry and what insights we can draw from His words and actions. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word.
Understanding Circumcision: Its Meaning and Background
Circumcision, derived from the Latin word circumcidere, meaning “to cut around,” refers to the surgical removal of the foreskin from the penis. In Hebrew, the term is מילה (milah), which literally translates to “the word,” symbolizing the covenant word spoken by God to Abraham. This act was instituted by God in Genesis 17:10, where He commanded Abraham to circumcise himself and his descendants as a sign of the covenant (Genesis 17:10-14).
Historically, in Jewish culture, circumcision was not just a physical act but a spiritual one, representing obedience to God and identification as part of His chosen people. It held significant importance in maintaining one’s status in the community and was performed on the eighth day of life, as commanded by God. The practice distinguished the Jews from surrounding nations and emphasized their special relationship with God.
In the Greco-Roman world, the perception of circumcision varied. Non-Jewish cultures often viewed it as an unnecessary or strange practice. As Christianity spread, the status of circumcision as a requirement for believers became a topic of debate. Many early Christians struggled to reconcile the Jewish customs with the new teachings of Jesus. This tension is evident in the New Testament, particularly in the discussions held by early church leaders regarding the necessity of circumcision for salvation (Acts 15).
When Jesus entered the scene, He brought a fresh perspective on the issue. His teachings emphasized the heart’s intentions over physical traditions. Therefore, when we examine His statements and actions regarding circumcision, it offers us insight into a broader understanding of what it means to live in covenant with God.
Circumcision as a Sign of the Covenant
To comprehend what Jesus said about circumcision, we must appreciate its original purpose. In Genesis 17:11, God instructed Abraham that circumcision would be “the sign of the covenant” between God and His people. This covenant was characterized by promises of land, descendants, and blessings (Genesis 12:1-3; Exodus 19:5-6). In essence, the act of circumcision was a visible mark that distinguished the descendants of Abraham from the rest of the world.
Jesus acknowledged the significance of the covenant but redefined how communities should understand their connection to God. In John 8:39, when confronting the Pharisees, He stated, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doing the works Abraham did.” This statement highlights that true lineage and identity stem from faith and obedience to God rather than merely physical heritage. Through Him, Jesus expanded the understanding of who Abraham’s true children are, not limited to those physically circumcised but to anyone who lives by faith (Galatians 3:7, 26-29).
Moreover, in Matthew 5:17-20, Jesus expressed the importance of fulfilling the Law, stating He did not come to abolish it but to fulfill it. He emphasized a high moral standard and a deeper adherence to God’s commandments, moving beyond mere rituals. This portrayal of fulfillment reoriented the discussion about circumcision from a physical act to a matter of genuine faith and righteousness.
Jesus and the Pharisees: A Clash Over Tradition
Through His ministry, Jesus often engaged with the Pharisees, who were strict adherents to Jewish law, including the practice of circumcision. In Mark 7:5-8, the Pharisees questioned Jesus about His failure to uphold traditional handwashing rituals before meals. Jesus’ response challenged their legalistic view of religion: “You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.” This principle is vital for understanding Jesus’ stance on circumcision. He was not dismissing the Law altogether but rather calling for a transformative understanding of what it means to walk with God.
In Luke 13:10-17, Jesus healed a woman on the Sabbath, raising questions about the significance of the day versus deeds of compassion. He pointed out that if they would free their livestock on the Sabbath, how much more should healing be desired on this day for a daughter of Abraham? Jesus’ actions here reveal His priority on mercy and compassion over rigid observance of the law, which includes circumcision.
When Jesus was approached by a rich young ruler seeking eternal life (Mark 10:17-22), He first affirmed the commandments, including those about murder, adultery, and theft. However, when the young man said he had kept all these, Jesus indicated that his wealth was an impediment to faithfully following Him. Here, Jesus illustrated that mere observance of the law—whether through circumcision or other religious actions—does not equate to fulfilling God’s will. The heart condition, intentions, and actions toward God and others are of utmost importance (Matthew 22:37-39).
The Role of Circumcision in the Early Church
Following Jesus’ teachings and the establishment of the early church, the stance on circumcision became a central issue in Acts 15 during the Jerusalem Council. Jewish believers debated whether Gentile converts should be required to undergo circumcision to be saved. Peter spoke at the council, reminding them of the grace God had shown to the Gentiles, proclaiming, “We believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will” (Acts 15:11).
This pivotal moment indicated a shift in the understanding of salvation. Believing in Jesus, rather than circumcision or adherence to the law, became the defining factor of faith. Paul also emphasized this in letters to the Galatians, arguing against the notion that Gentile believers needed circumcision for salvation (Galatians 5:2-6). He called their reliance on the law as a means of righteousness a stumbling block that detracted from the grace offered through faith in Christ.
Circumcision, although once essential, transformed in meaning from a mere physical act to a broader representation of commitment to God through Christ. Paul articulates this concept by describing the true circumcision as “a matter of the heart” (Romans 2:29) and reiterates this in Colossians 2:11, which speaks of the “circumcision made without hands,” or the spiritual change that occurs in the believer. This illustrates Jesus’ aim of bringing life and urgency to faith in action instead of a stagnant belief upheld by traditional practices.
Final Thoughts
In wrapping up our discussion about what Jesus said regarding circumcision, we realize that it was much more than a physical act—it represented a covenantal relationship with God. Circumcision served as a mark of identity, but Jesus turned our attention to what truly matters: a heart committed to God. Through His teachings and experiences, He highlighted that following the law was not just about outward observance but about an internal change of heart that reflects God’s love and mercy.
From the encounters with the Pharisees to the teachings He imparted to His disciples, Jesus has shown us the importance of grace, compassion, and the true meaning of faith. As we move forward in our own walks with Christ, let’s remember the essence of loving God and others and engage with the world in a way that mirrors the heart of Jesus.
Ultimately, the message is clear: true belonging to God comes via faith, not rituals. We are invited into a relationship defined by love, grace, and transformation from the inside out. As we allow this truth to permeate our lives, may we reflect Jesus in our actions and interactions with others.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4