What does "was anyone already circumcised" imply about past religious practices? Context of 1 Corinthians 7:18 • Paul is addressing believers in Corinth about remaining in the life situation they were in when God called them. • Verse 18: “Was anyone already circumcised when he was called? He should not become uncircumcised. Was anyone still uncircumcised when he was called? He should not be circumcised.” Circumcision in Biblical History • First instituted with Abraham as a covenant sign (Genesis 17:10–14). • Reinforced under the Law at Sinai (Leviticus 12:3). • Practiced consistently among Israelites; a physical marker that they belonged to God’s covenant people (Joshua 5:2–9). • By New Testament times, some Hellenized Jews attempted surgical reversal (epispasm) to blend into Greco-Roman society—hence Paul’s mention of “becoming uncircumcised.” What “was anyone already circumcised” Tells Us • Many early believers came from Jewish backgrounds, carrying the physical sign of the Abrahamic covenant. • Their past religious devotion was literal and outward—an actual cutting of flesh—showing lifelong identification with Mosaic faith. • The phrase acknowledges that this practice pre-dated their faith in Christ; it was not something they were now required to redo or undo. • It underlines that outward religious rites, even God-given ones, do not change a believer’s standing in Christ (cf. Romans 2:25–29; Galatians 5:2–4). Why Paul Brings It Up • To settle disputes: some Jewish believers pressured Gentiles to adopt circumcision (Acts 15:1–29). • To free consciences: no one needed to alter his body to gain or keep salvation (Colossians 3:11). • To emphasize calling: the focus shifts from external marks to keeping “God’s commandments” through faith in Jesus (1 Corinthians 7:19). Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Our past religious practices—whether rich heritage or empty ritual—do not hinder the gospel’s power in our lives. • Salvation rests on Christ’s finished work, not physical signs or cultural badges. • Stay faithful where God has placed you unless He clearly leads otherwise; your testimony shines through obedience, not outward conformity. |
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