Old Testament Circumcision in Modern Belief

Why Do Modern Believers Not Observe Circumcision Commanded by God in the Old Testament?

 

Q:  Why do modern believers, especially Christians, not observe the circumcision commanded by God in the Old Testament?

 

A: Circumcision, as commanded in the Old Testament, was a significant sign of the covenant between God and His people (Genesis 17:9-14). However, modern believers, particularly within Christianity, no longer consider circumcision mandatory due to the teachings in the New Testament and the establishment of a new covenant through Jesus Christ. This article explores the historical, theological, and doctrinal reasons for this shift, explaining why circumcision is no longer seen as a religious obligation for Christians while it remains a vital practice in Judaism.

 

 

 

1. The Meaning of Circumcision in the Old Testament

Covenant with Abraham

Circumcision was first introduced in Genesis 17 as a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham. God commanded Abraham that every male among his descendants should be circumcised as a mark of their special relationship with Him:

• Genesis 17:10-11: "This is my covenant, which you shall keep, between me and you and your descendants after you: Every male among you shall be circumcised. You shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and you."

This act served as an outward and physical mark distinguishing the Israelites from other nations, signifying that they were God's chosen people and committed to His laws.

Requirement of the Law

Under Mosaic Law, circumcision was explicitly mandated as part of religious obedience and identity:

• Leviticus 12:3: "And on the eighth day, the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised."

This commandment was strictly observed by the Israelites throughout their history. Circumcision was not merely a health or cultural practice but a spiritual act of obedience, signifying dedication to God’s covenant. Failure to comply with this command was considered a severe offense, resulting in exclusion from the community.

 

 

2. The Transformation of Circumcision in the New Testament

Spiritual Circumcision: A New Understanding

With the arrival of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the New Covenant, circumcision took on a spiritual rather than a physical significance. The New Testament emphasizes that true circumcision is of the heart rather than the flesh:

• Romans 2:28-29: "A person is not a Jew who is one only outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code."
• Colossians 2:11: "In Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self, ruled by the flesh, was put off when you were circumcised by Christ."

These passages indicate that true circumcision is now an internal transformation—a commitment to God’s will rather than an external ritual.

Baptism Replaces Circumcision

In the early Christian church, baptism became the new symbol of faith and entry into God’s covenant community.

• Colossians 2:12: "Having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised with Him through your faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead."

Baptism symbolizes the cleansing of sins and the believer’s new life in Christ, thus replacing circumcision as the sign of God’s covenant with His people.

 

 

3. The Decision of the Jerusalem Council

In the early Christian church, there was a major debate about whether Gentile (non-Jewish) converts needed to follow Jewish customs, including circumcision. This issue was resolved at the Jerusalem Council, described in Acts 15:

• The apostles and elders convened to determine whether circumcision should be required for salvation.
• Peter argued that faith in Jesus Christ was sufficient for salvation: Acts 15:11: "We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are."
• Paul and Barnabas shared testimonies of Gentiles receiving the Holy Spirit without circumcision.
• The final decision was that Gentile believers did not need to be circumcised to be part of God’s covenant.

This ruling marked a fundamental shift in Christian theology, emphasizing salvation by grace through faith rather than adherence to the Jewish Law.

 

 

4. Theological Reasons for the Shift

Fulfillment in Christ

Jesus Christ fulfilled the requirements of the Law, making circumcision and other ceremonial laws unnecessary:

• Matthew 5:17: "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them."

Since Christ’s sacrifice provided full atonement for sins, the outward ritual of circumcision was no longer required.

Salvation by Grace through Faith

The New Testament teaches that salvation comes through faith in Christ rather than works of the Law:

• Ephesians 2:8-9: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."

Since circumcision was part of the Mosaic Law, it was no longer seen as necessary for salvation.

 

 

5. Distinction from Judaism

While circumcision remains an essential religious practice in Judaism, Christianity emphasizes spiritual transformation and faith in Jesus Christ. Rather than maintaining outward rituals, Christians focus on internal faith and obedience to God.

Why Circumcision is Still Practiced in Judaism

• Symbolism: Circumcision in Judaism is not just a religious commandment but a fundamental cultural and spiritual identity marker.
• Brit Milah: Jewish boys undergo circumcision on the eighth day as a sacred obligation.
• Theological Significance: In Jewish belief, circumcision represents an unbroken covenant with God, ensuring continuity of faith through generations.

Medical and Ethical Perspectives on Circumcision

While circumcision is no longer a Christian requirement, medical and ethical debates continue:

• Health Benefits: Some studies suggest circumcision reduces risks of infections and improves hygiene.
• Autonomy Concerns: Some argue that circumcision should be an individual choice rather than a decision made for infants.

 

Conclusion

In the Old Testament, circumcision was a vital sign of the covenant between God and His people. However, in the New Testament, its significance was fulfilled and transformed through Jesus Christ. Modern believers, particularly Christians, are no longer bound by this physical practice but instead emphasize spiritual circumcision, baptism, and a life of faith as marks of belonging to God’s covenant community.

While circumcision remains a crucial practice in Judaism, Christianity has moved toward a faith-based relationship with God, where outward rituals are secondary to inner transformation. Ultimately, understanding the theological evolution of circumcision helps believers appreciate both their spiritual heritage and the freedom offered through faith in Christ.