What role does circumcision play in understanding faith according to Romans 4:10? Setting the Verse in View Romans 4:10: “In what circumstances was it credited? Was it after he was circumcised, or before? It was not after, but before.” Circumcision’s Timing in Abraham’s Story • Genesis 15:6—“Abram believed the LORD, and He credited it to him as righteousness.” • Genesis 17:10-11—Circumcision instituted approximately 14 years later. • Therefore, righteousness was counted to Abraham while still uncircumcised. Faith First, Sign Second • Faith is the channel; circumcision is the visible seal. • Salvation originates in God’s promise, not in human ceremony. • Romans 3:28—“A man is justified by faith apart from works of the law.” The Sign as a Seal, Not a Source • Romans 4:11: “And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised…” • A seal authenticates something already true; it doesn’t create the truth. • Comparable New-Covenant picture: baptism (Colossians 2:11-13)—a testimony to a prior work of grace. Wider Scriptural Threads • Galatians 3:6-9—Those of faith are “sons of Abraham,” whether Jew or Gentile. • Ephesians 2:8-9—Salvation is “not of works, so that no one may boast.” • Acts 15:7-11—Council of Jerusalem affirms Gentiles saved by faith without circumcision. Practical Takeaways • Trust God’s promise before performing any outward act. • Guard against elevating rituals to a saving status. • Welcome all who share genuine faith, regardless of background or traditions. • Rejoice that righteousness is credited the moment one believes—signs merely celebrate the reality already secured in Christ. |
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