In what ways can we encourage others to embrace their spiritual circumcision in Christ? Grasping What God Has Done “In Him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of your sinful nature, with the circumcision performed by Christ and not by human hands.” (Colossians 2:11) • Physical circumcision marked Israel as God’s covenant people; spiritual circumcision marks every believer as God’s own. • The “knife” is the cross: Jesus cut away our old, sin-dominated self once for all (Romans 6:6). • Because Scripture is entirely true, we can rest in the fact that this inner work is complete and irrevocable (John 17:17). Celebrate the Finished Work of Christ • Keep the focus on Christ, not self-effort. Remind friends that “you have been made complete in Him” (Colossians 2:10). • Read aloud verses that emphasize His accomplishment: • Share testimonies of freedom from old patterns. Hearing living examples makes doctrine tangible. Affirm the New Identity • Use “you are” language, echoing Scripture: – “You are God’s workmanship” (Ephesians 2:10). – “You are a chosen people” (1 Peter 2:9). • Encourage journaling: list what God says is true, cross out lies of the old nature. • Memorize Philippians 3:3—“For it is we who are the circumcision…” Speak Truth into Daily Struggles • When someone feels condemned, point to Romans 8:1. • When temptation hits, remind them their flesh was crucified with Christ (Galatians 5:24). • When shame resurfaces, read Psalm 103:12 and Colossians 1:22 together. Model a Life Set Apart • Live transparently: admit weakness but highlight Christ’s power (2 Corinthians 12:9). • Practice quick confession and repentance; it shows how the “old skin” no longer rules. • Prioritize holiness in speech, media, and relationships (1 Peter 1:15-16). Guard Against Legalism and License • Legalism: remind believers that “performed by Christ and not by human hands” means no ritual can improve on what He finished (Galatians 3:3). • License: spiritual circumcision frees us to obey, not to sin (Romans 6:18). Balance grace and responsibility. Practical Ways to Encourage Others • Share Scripture cards highlighting identity truths. • Form small accountability pairs that speak Colossians 2:11-13 over one another weekly. • Celebrate spiritual birthdays—the date someone trusted Christ—to reinforce the moment the “old self” was cut away. • Sing songs rich in cross-centered theology; music plants truth deep. • Serve together; ministry settings reveal and reinforce the new heart of compassion. Keep Pointing Back to the Word “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12). The same Word that saved us keeps shaping us. By continually directing others to Scripture, we help them embrace—and live out—their spiritual circumcision in Christ. |
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