Circumcision of Flesh

As we’ve discussed throughout our New Covenant series, Scripture reveals many Laws which Temporarily Covered Unrighteousness, such as the physical Temple, Levitical Priesthood and Sacrificial System have changed (Abarym/Hebrews 10), and yet we also find much evidence many laws of the First Covenant Age remain unchanged, and still necessary for Believers to observe if their Faith in Messiah is to be considered genuine:

“He who keeps My commands and observes them, it is he who loves Me.

And he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father,

and I shall love him and manifest Myself to him.”

-Yahuchanan/John 14:21

“My brothers, what use is it for anyone to say he has Faith

but does not have works?

This ‘Faith’ is unable to save him.

And if a brother or sister is naked and in need of daily food,

but one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,”

but you do not give them the bodily needs, what use is it?

So also ‘Faith’, if it does not have works, is in itself dead."

-Yaacub/James 2:14-17

As we see here, the Messiah says if we truly love Him, we will "keep His Commands", and the Father and Messiah will love us in return. While we know He is patient in our Sanctification Process (2 Peter 3:9) as we are coming to the full "Knowledge of the Truth" (Heb. 10), the passages explain some of these commandments may even impact our Salvation. Therefore, it is imperative to discover which commands “changed” and which laws “remain the same,” and in this case, how the “change of law and priesthood (Abarym/Hebrews 7:12)” of this New Covenant Age impacts the Law of Circumcision.

The choice can become quite a serious issue as various congregational authorities, health and human rights organizations, and even international lawmakers continually regulate the practice, while some forbid the ancient custom altogether. Therefore, since about half of the world population is male, and only about one-third of them are estimated to be circumcised, many men, or even parents, coming to Faith in Messiah may find themselves in a rather difficult position. They may have to wrestle with the degree of the necessity of circumcision of flesh in regards to religious conviction, health and legal concerns. They may ask themselves, “Is the choice to circumcise, or not to circumcise, really worth losing church membership, social-acceptance, my freedom, my children, or possibly even our salvation?” This leaves us with the topic at hand:

·      Do Believers in Messiah have to become circumcised to join fellowship?

·      If they refuse circumcision, does that eventually prove they don’t truly “love the Messiah and Father”?

·      Is circumcision technically required to have Salvation?

·      Will the uncircumcised be allowed to enter the “Kingdom of the Father”, or will they be forced to “live outside” of the Gates of New Yarushalam?

Some say only bloodline Jews are required to be circumcised, while others believe Gentile Believers are not exempt. Let’s discover what the Scriptures reveal concerning this particular law, for those of us on this side of the cross.

What is "Circumcision of the Flesh"?

The term "circumcision" is typically defined to include any "removal of the foreskin of the male genital organ". Differing degrees and styles of circumcision have been practiced throughout history by various cultures, some of which can be quite painful and dangerous, sometimes leaving permanent nerve damage or glans disfunction as they progressively become more invasive. However, the type of circumcision required by the ancient Abrahamic Covenant originally consisted of a simple medical procedure in which a parent typically used the sharpened edge of a flint rock to quickly cut away the excess end of the "foreskin" naturally extending beyond the tip of the glans (Exo. 4:25, Josh. 5:2). While some argue even this was excessive, believing a simple "X" was made at the end of the foreskin, we see evidence in the very etymology of the term that the cut was actually made "around" the organ, and required removing only the "topmost", or most "extreme end". We also see this exemplified in certain Scriptural passages such as Exo. 4:25 and 1 Sam. 18:25-27, where this part was said to have been literally "cut off" and "thrown at his feet," and elsewhere "collected". Whereas, a simple "X" would not have made provisions for these actions. This procedure was most often completed on the 8th day of a Hebrew baby boy's life, however the same process was applied to older children and adults coming to Faith as well. Unlike more invasive and modern styles of circumcision, the foreskin was not completely stripped back, neither was the sensitive frenulum disturbed or moved from the glans during the procedure. Thus, a considerable amount of remaining foreskin continued to cover and protect a substantial portion of the glans. In fact, because so much of the foreskin remained, a circumcised Hebrew was actually capable of completing a process in which they could become quite literally, "uncircumcised", as was quite popular in the day of the Seleucid Empire. This process continued even in the day of Messiah, as Hebrew Believers were encouraged not to seek to become "uncircumcised" (1 Corin. 7:18):

"In those days went there out of Yasharal wicked men, who persuaded many, saying, Let us go and cut a Covenant with the heathen that are round about us: for since we departed from them we have had much sorrow. So this device pleased them well. Then certain of the people were so forward herein, that they went to the king, who gave them license to do after the ordinances of the heathen: Whereupon they built a place of exercise at Yarushalam according to the customs of the heathen: And made themselves uncircumcised, and forsook the Set Apart Covenant, and joined themselves to the heathen, and were sold to do mischief." -1 Maccabees 1:11-15

Although this style of circumcision was not completely without risk, painless (Gen. 34:25), or bloodless (Exo. 4:26), the healing process was fairly quick and easy. Beyond sufficient rest for a few days, there was not much need for further medical intervention like suturing, even when performed under less than sanitary conditions of the ancient Near East wilderness (Joshua 5:5-8). This specific style of circumcision continued unchanged throughout the Hebrews' history, until around 140 AD. Therefore, the Messiah Himself would have even been subjected to this style of circumcision, as was the common Hebraic custom of His day.

"And when eight days were completed for Him to be circumcised, His Name was called יהושע, the Name given by the messenger before He was conceived in the womb."

-Luke 2:21

For What Purpose Was Circumcision Instituted?

Scripture says a Promise of the Messiah to overcome the curse of death and destruction brought in by the serpent enticing Adam and Eve to eat fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil existed from the very beginning. Due to this curse, a Savior would be necessary, because "until that time", mankind was doomed to wrestle with properly interpreting this Knowledge while struggling against a cunning serpent continually seeking to “consume them” through his deceptive lies and manipulation of the Truth.

Therefore, as we’ve previously discussed in our New Covenant series, Scripture says “until the Seed should come to Whom the Promise was made (Gal. 3:19),” mankind was still being “guarded” under a Covenantal Torah (Gal. 3:23). That Covenantal Torah not only required the “Slaughter and meal offering, and burnt offerings, and offerings for sin (Heb. 10:8)”, but also required the Circumcision of Flesh as a Sign of their Belief in the Messiah Who would one day come to set them free from their "Bondage to Sin and Death" by laying down His Own Flesh. If they refused the Sign of the Covenant, they were to be "cut off from the Congregation", having no Expectation of Salvation. This requirement applied to both naturally born Hebrew males and any male Gentiles grafted-in to the Set Apart Nation of Yasharal:

“And Alahym said to Abraham, “As for you, guard My Covenant, you and your seed after you throughout their generations. This is My Covenant which you guard between Me and you, and your seed after you: Every male child among you is to be circumcised. And you shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin, and it shall become a Sign of the Covenant between Me and you. And a son of eight days is circumcised by you, every male child in your generations, he who is born in your house or bought with silver from any foreigner who is not of your seed. He who is born in your house, and he who is bought with your silver, has to be circumcised. So shall My Covenant be in your flesh, for an Everlasting Covenant. And an uncircumcised male child, who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin, his life shall be cut off from his people – he has broken My Covenant.”

-Genesis 17:9-14

            Although all Abraham’s sons were circumcised of flesh, not all of Abraham’s House actually obeyed all the Covenantal Commands. Scripture reveals Abraham’s children grew into two mighty rivaling nations, just as prophesied. Jealousy of the Chosen Lineage passing through Yatschaq and Ya’acub caused friction amongst His children, and therefore the Covenantal Nation became known as Yasharal and Abarym (Abrahamians/“Hebrews”), whereas Abraham’s other children became collectively known as the Arabians (Jubilees 20:12-13), and although Arabians were encouraged to be grafted-in to the Covenant of Yasharal, to do so, they had to accept the same conditions as the “natural branches” of Yasharal by:

1)     Becoming Circumcised of flesh to proclaim their Belief in the Seed of Abraham as the Coming Messiah

2)     Rejecting their gentile customs and repenting from all transgression against the Covenantal Torah

3)     Observing the Covenantal Torah given to the Abarym (Hebrews)

Therefore, the Circumcision of Flesh was not evidence of their assurance of Salvation, but a Symbol of their Belief in the Coming Messiah, and subsequent dedication to “laying down their flesh” by obeying The Ways of the Father. In this way, it still served as a prerequisite to their in-grafting. Today, many Arabians still practice circumcision, although the original symbolism has been long forgotten for most of them.

            We also find other verses scattered throughout the First Covenant Books which reveal this Rite of Passage was still observed throughout later generations, just as Abraham was told would be necessary:

“And יהוה spoke to Mashah (Moses), saying, speak to the Children of Yasharal, saying, ‘When a woman has conceived, and has given birth to a male child, then she shall be unclean seven days, as in the days of her monthly separation she is unclean. And on the eighth day the flesh of his foreskin is circumcised.” -Leviticus 12:1-3

“And יהוה said to Mashah (Moses) and Aaran, “This is the Law of the Passover: No son of a stranger is to eat of it, but any servant a man has bought for silver, when you have circumcised him, then let him eat of it. A sojourner and a hired servant does not eat of it. It is eaten in one house, you are not to take any of the flesh outside the house, nor are you to break any bone of it. All the Congregation of Yasharal are to perform it. And when a stranger sojourns with you and shall perform the Passover to יהוה, let all his males be circumcised, and then let him come near and perform it, and he shall be as a native of the land. But let no uncircumcised eat of it.  There is one Torah for the native-born and for the stranger who sojourns among you.”

-Exodus 12:43-49

            Here we see declared once again, not only were bloodline Hebrew males required to be circumcised on the 8th Day, but gentiles males were also required to be circumcised of flesh upon their conversion in order to observe Passover. Therefore, circumcision was still required for Salvation after the Exodus since the Law of Mashah (Moses) explains the Annual Passover Sacrifice was necessary for the Wrath of the Father to Pass Over the Sins of His People. As we see in Numbers 9, if a man did not bring the Passover Sacrifice, then he was to be “cut off” from His People, and therefore counted as “Strangers to the Promises of the Covenant” (such as the Promise of Salvation):

“But the man who is clean and is not on a journey, and has failed to perform the Passover, that same being shall be cut off from among his people, because he did not bring the offering of יהוה at its Appointed Time – that man bears his sin. And when a stranger sojourns among you, then he shall perform the Passover of יהוה. He shall do so according to the Law of the Passover and according to its right-ruling. You have one law, both for the stranger and the native of the Land.’” -Numbers 9:13-14

            For these reasons, any Hebrews not circumcised on the 8th Day, or Gentiles who refused to become circumcised of flesh were considered “foreigners to the Covenant,” and therefore unauthorized to enter the Temple Complex or to bring any sacrifices for atonement as their “uncleanness” would defile the Temple. If they ignored these laws, they were to be put to death immediately.

“And יהוה said to me, “Son of man, set your heart and see with your eyes and hear with your ears, all that I say to you concerning all the Ordinances of the House of יהוה and all its Laws. And you shall set your heart to the entrance of the House, with all the exits of the Set Apart Place, and shall say to the rebellious, to the House of Yasharal, ‘Thus said the Master יהוה, “O House of Yasharal, enough of all these abominations of yours, that you brought in sons of a foreigner, uncircumcised in heart and uncircumcised in flesh, to be in My Set Apart Place to profane it, My House! That you brought near My food, the fat and the blood, and you broke My Covenant because of all your abominations. And you did not guard the charge of that which is Set Apart to Me, but you have set others to guard the charge of My Set Apart Place for you.” Thus said the Master יהוה, “No son of a foreigner, uncircumcised in heart or uncircumcised in flesh, comes into My Set Apart Place, even any son of a foreigner who is among the Children of Yasharal.” -Ezekiel 44:5-9

A Sign of the Wall of the Soreg of the Temple:

"No stranger is to enter within the balustrade round the temple and enclosure.Whoever is caught will be responsible to himself for his death, which will ensue.”

However, circumcision wasn’t just a matter of life and death for the gentiles passing through the gates of the Temple. Throughout the Ages, we often find Yasharal “uncircumcised of heart” (failing to keep the Covenantal Torah in genuine desire to worship the Father). Regardless of their circumcision, they were forcibly removed from the Promised Land and given over to their gentile enemies where circumcision of flesh was often considered a foreign concept. In the worst of times, circumcision would become illegal, and sometimes even punishable by death. They were often forced to choose their Eternal Life over their Physical Life, trusting in the Covenant Promise of Salvation for those who walked out their Belief. We find many valiant examples of Hebrews choosing to face death, trusting in the Hope of Eternal Life scattered throughout the Word.

Examples of Circumcision as a Matter of Life or Death

• Exodus 4:24-26/Yashar 78:7-10 & 79: Yahuah decides Moses must die because Moses refused to circumcise his son at his Medianite father-in-law’s request, his life is saved when his wise and Righteous wife Tsipporah does so
  

• 1 Maccabees 1:60/2 Maccabees 6:10/4 Maccabees 4:25: Mothers and their children were put to death for defying the Gentile law forbidding circumcision

Why Were Babies Circumcised at 8 Days?

Today there is a strong conviction in modern culture to wait until a child is old enough to decide their Faith as an adult. However, the Covenant to Abraham did not agree with this mindset. The command specified all male children to be circumcised on the 8th day of life. Barely a week old, too young to discern good and evil, yet given a Sign of their Faith in the Coming Seed.

Why? Why not wait until they were old enough to decide for themselves? Well, firstly because the Creator of the human race understands the human psyche and bodily function better than any psychologist, neuroscientist or biologist. Yet, even they have come to realize children develop the bulk of their personality by seven years old, and it is nearly impossible to alter those hardwired personality traits without extreme intentionality and retraining. Therefore, He instructed His People to teach their children to believe the Truth, and behave in Righteousness from the very beginning so by the time they grew into self-autonomous adulthood, Belief and Obedience to the Covenant of Yasharal was their natural inclination. While Gentiles were always allowed to be grafted-into the Covenant, conversion was very rare for them to choose to yoke themselves under such "strict" foreign concepts and beliefs (often not understanding the blessing in obedience):

"Thorns, snares are in the way of the perverse;

He who guards his life keeps far away from them.

Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old

he turns not away from it." -Proverbs 22:5-6

However, circumcision was required during an Age when the Set Apart Spirit was unable to "dwell in" His People, but only able to "dwell among them" in a Temple made by hands because of "their uncleanness" (Levi. 16:16). They required outward signs like circumcision, tzit-tzits, and signs on their gates and door posts to constantly remind them of the Law, because it was not yet able to be "Written on their Hearts" (Heb. 10:15-16). Also, because the Messiah's Eternal Sacrifice had not yet destroyed the "Curse of Sin and Death" freeing Believers from their Memorial of Sin so they could more easily overcome their desire to sin. Many Gentiles now more readily come to Saving Faith, despite their pagan upbringing, as their Belief in His Eternal Propitiation sets them free from their "memorial of sin" and carnality by the "renewing of their minds" (Eph. 4:17-24).

Secondly, circumcision is a procedure much more safely administered on the 8th day rather than any other time in a human's entire life. In the 1930s, two researchers discovered the 8th day of a newborn's life is the exact day which blood begins to properly clot. The human body has 2 blood clotting elements. One of them is called Vitamin K. Vitamin K is not formed in the body up until the 5th to the 7th day. The 2nd is called Prothrombin. It develops to 30% by the 3rd day of life and peaks at 110% on the 8th day, just before leveling off at 100% of normal. If Vitamin K is not present when a baby boy is circumcised, especially during more invasive techniques, there is a possibility of the baby bleeding to death without further medical intervention. However, when a baby is birthed naturally and the mother is allowed delayed cord clamping as done according to the expectations of the Abrahamic Covenant, there are minimal risks involved, and the perceived health benefits are understood to greatly outweigh the risks.

If Circumcision was Required in the First Covenant,

Shouldn't it be Required in the New Covenant?

We should bear in mind that just because a particular Law was required during the First Covenant Age, doesn’t necessarily mean that Law is still required in the New Covenant Age, at least not always in the same way as before. Often the law still applies, but manifests differently. YarmYahu/Jeremiah 31 says this New Covenant would be “unlike” before. Therefore, the Messiah’s Sacrifice did not simply renew the same Old Laws, but offered a “New Way” (Heb. 10:20) into a “New Covenant” which is “better” (Heb. 8:8), than the “Old Covenant” (Heb. 8:13, 2 Corin. 3:14) which requires setting aside certain Laws of the “former” Fleshly Command (Heb. 7:18). No longer obligating Believers to hold to the “Letter of the Law”, but instead calling us to obey the “Spirit of the Law” (2 Corin. 3:6). In this way, the Law is not diminished, but elevated to higher Calling, often more difficult Spiritual Application. In certain instances, we are told the Fleshly Application does not continue alongside the Spiritual, but the Spiritual Law actually replaces the Fleshly Law. We see this principal proclaimed in Hebrews 7:

"For it is perfectly clear that our Master arose from Yahudah, a tribe about which Mashah (Moses) never spoke of concerning Priesthood, and this is clearer still, if another Priest arises in the likeness of Malky-Tsadaq, Who has become, not according to the Torah of Fleshly Command, but according to the Power of an Endless Life, for He does Witness, “You are a Priest forever according to the Order of Malky-Tsadaq.” For there is indeed a setting aside of the former Command because of its weakness and unprofitableness, for the Torah perfected naught, but the bringing in of a Better Expectation, through which we draw near to Alahym."

-Hebrews 7:14-19

As for the Torah of the “Circumcision of Flesh”, the Letter of Galatians was primarily Written to clarify the fact that Physical Circumcision is no longer required in the New Covenant Age. Paul explained throughout the Letter how the Messiah's Sacrifice set apart His People once and for all. Therefore, circumcision was no longer necessary and doing so based on the premise it is still required actually flies in the face of His Eternal Propitiation. He warned, if they were persuaded it was still required, then they would be yoking themselves under the whole Law of Mashah once again, and therefore be held liable to be judged by that entire First Covenant Torah:

"In the freedom with which Messiah has made us free, stand firm, then, and do not again be held with a yoke of slavery. See, I, Sha’ul, say to you that if you become circumcised, Messiah shall be of no use to you. And I witness again to every man being circumcised that he is a debtor to do the entire Torah. You who are declared Right by Torah have severed yourselves from Messiah, you have fallen from favour. For we, in Spirit, by Belief, eagerly wait for the Expectation of Righteousness. For in Messiah יהושע neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any strength, but Belief working through love. You were running well, who held you back from obeying the truth? That persuasion does not come from Him who calls you. A little leaven leavens all the lump. I trust in you, in the Master, that you shall have no other mind. And he who is troubling you shall bear his Judgment, whoever he is.

And I, brothers, if I still proclaim circumcision, why am I still persecuted? Then the stumbling-block of the stake has been set aside. O that those who disturb you would even cut themselves off! For you, brothers, have been Called to freedom, only do not use freedom as an occasion for the flesh, but through love Serve one another."

-Galatians 5:1-13

However, some confuse Paul's Letter to Galatians to only dissuade the practice of circumcision under the expectation it will somehow "save them". They often assert Paul would have encouraged Gentiles and Hebrews to eventually become circumcised out of a genuine desire to simply obey the Father's Command as evidence of their trust and love towards the Father and Messiah. However, while it is true circumcision alone was never a guarantee of Salvation, Paul did not believe the Galatians were persuaded by the Judaizers to become circumcised in order to "earn their salvation". Coming from the Pharisee Sect himself, he knew they understood it to be a Sign required by the Law of Mashah of their Confession of Faith in the Messiah which set them apart as the Seed of Abraham. Paul also knew Pharisees understood the application of all torah as an on-going necessity, and that circumcision alone was insufficient to be judged as "Righteous" before the Father. Otherwise, they would not have condemned circumcised men for breaking other necessary laws. He fully understood the perspective of the Judaizers, that just as in the First Covenant Age, "without circumcision of flesh, they would have no inheritance amongst the Seed of Abraham, and no Expectation of Deliverance unto Salvation". Yet, he vehemently rebuked this false teaching that "circumcision of flesh was still required for Believers in the New Covenant":

"I marvel that you are so readily turning away from Him who called you in the favour of Messiah, to a different ‘Good News,’ which is not another, only there are some who are troubling you and wishing to pervert the Good News of Messiah. However, even if we, or a messenger out of heaven, bring a ‘Good News’ to you beside what we announced to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, and now I say again, if anyone brings a ‘Good News’ to you beside what you have received, let him be accursed. For do I now persuade men, or Alahym? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I should not be a Servant of Messiah."-Galatians 1:6-10

 "For there are many who rebel against right Teaching; they engage in useless talk and deceive people. This is especially true of those who insist on circumcision for salvation. They must be silenced. By their wrong Teaching, they have already turned whole families away from the Truth. Such Teachers only want your money."

–Titus 1:10-11

"Watch out for those wicked men – dangerous dogs, I call them – who say you must be circumcised. Beware of the evil doers. Beware of the mutilation. For it isn’t the cutting of our bodies that makes us Children of Yah; it is worshiping Him with our Spirits."

-Philippians 3:2-3

 Although Circumcision Isn't Required for Salvation,

Doesn't it Reveal our Hearts are Truly "Circumcised"?

That argument is precisely how the Judaizers argued as circumcision was still "necessary", believing it as a sort of litmus test to determine if those men were truly dedicated to the Father as was the case in the First Covenant Age. However, Scripture reveals circumcision of flesh no longer makes a person more or less Righteous:

“Do not lie to each other, since you have put off the old man with his practices, and have put on the new one who is renewed in Knowledge according to the likeness of Him Who created him, where there is not Greek and Yahudy (Jew), circumcised and uncircumcised, foreigner, Scythian, slave, free, but Messiah is all, and in all.” -Colossians 3:9-11

"As many as wish to make a good show in the flesh, these compel you to be circumcised, only so that they should not be persecuted for the cross of Messiah. For those who are circumcised do not even watch over the Torah, but they wish to have you circumcised so that they might boast in your flesh. And for me, let it not be that I should boast except in the cross of our Master יהושע Messiah, through whom the world has been impaled to me, and I to the world. For in Messiah יהושע neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any strength, but a new creature."

–Galatians 6:12-15

Isn't Submission to Circumcision Important for Medical Purposes?

Although medical professionals and scientists have long debated the perceived health benefits of the practice of male circumcision, Scripturally we have not been informed of this. If there were serious medical benefits, it would be strange for Paul to so bluntly state circumcision means nothing in the New Covenant Age, encouraging others not to become circumcised at any point in their Spiritual Maturity, but to remain in their state from which they were "Called".

"Only, as Alahym has distributed to each one, as the Master has Called each one, so let him walk. And so I order in all the Assemblies: Was anyone Called while circumcised? Let him not become uncircumcised. Was anyone Called while uncircumcised? Let him not be circumcised. The circumcision is naught, and the uncircumcision is naught, but the guarding of the commands of Alahym does matter! Let each one remain in the same Calling in which he was Called. Were you called while a slave? It matters not to you, but if you are able to become free too, rather use it. For he who is Called in the Master while a slave is the Master’s freed man. Likewise he who is Called while free is a slave of Messiah. You were bought with a price, do not become slaves of men. Brothers, let each one remain with Alahym in that Calling in which he was Called." 

-1 Corinthians 7:17-24

Of course, this stance does cause some to doubt Paul’s validity as an Anointed Apostle. It is difficult for some to understand how any true Apostle of Messiah could directly negate previous commands spoken in Scripture, citing Deuteronomy 18 as evidence their words should be discounted based on the interpretation that “anyone preaching contrary to the Law of Moses should be killed”. However, this is not actually what the passage states. The last verse clarifies, if that prophet was not personally sent by the Father, or their prophetic word did not come to pass as they foretold, then they should be put to death. The passage also foretells of the Day when the Messiah would come, sent by the Father and all should submit to His Word:

“I shall raise up for them a Prophet like you out of the midst of their brothers. And I shall put My Words in His mouth, and He shall speak to them all that I command Him. And it shall be, the man who does not listen to My Words which He speaks in My Name, I require it of him. But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in My Name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other mighty ones, even that prophet shall die.’ And when you say in your heart, ‘How do we know the word which יהוה has not spoken?’ – when the prophet speaks in the Name of יהוה and the word is not, or comes not, that is the word which יהוה has not spoken. The prophet has spoken it presumptuously. Do not be afraid of him.” -Deuteronomy 18:19-22

“The Sceptre shall not turn aside from Yahudah, nor a Lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh comes, and to Him is the obedience of peoples.” -Genesis 49:10

Therefore, as Mashah (Moses) states, this expectation of a “change of law and priesthood (Heb. 7:12)” was always built into the Promise to Abraham and Law of Mashah. Therefore, it would be erroneous to believe the Apostles of Messiah to be false prophets simply based on the premise "they teach contrary to the Law of Moses". Since sufficient Scriptural evidence reveals the Father and Messiah indeed Anointed them to share the Good News of the New Covenant’s manifestation, we must not reject the Word they teach. Regardless, many Believers and Unbelievers of the Pharisee Sect did not interpret this passage as such. They understood the passage to mean the Law of Mashah would "never change", and therefore, anyone speaking contrary should be put to death. Therefore, when they heard Paul and Barnabah teaching circumcision was no longer necessary, they argued vehemently:

“And certain men came down from Yahudah (Judea) and were teaching the brothers,

‘Unless you are circumcised, according to the practice of Mashah (Moses),

you are unable to be saved.’”

-Acts 15:1

Luke explains Paul and Barnabah continued to reject the Yahudym's Teaching, and after a while of arguing against the Apostles’ perspective, some Messianic Judaizers sent them to the Elders and Apostles in Yarushalam to determine which party was correct on the matter. On their way there, Paul and Barnabah continued to share the Gospel and many Gentiles came to Faith through their Witness. When they finally arrived, they couldn’t help but share how powerfully the Spirit was moving amongst the Gentiles, overjoyed at the so many conversions to Faith. Obviously absent from their stories was the witness of these Gentiles’ physical circumcision. Ironically, some Believers of the Sect of the Pharisees then rose up claiming those newly converted Gentiles must be circumcised, or they could have no Expectation of Salvation as the Law of Mashah stated (the original concern leading to their presence there in the first place):

“So, when Sha’ul and Barnabah had no small dissension and dispute with them, they arranged for Sha’ul and Barnabah and certain others of them to go up to Yarushalam, to the Emissaries and Elders, about this question. So, being sent on their way by the Assembly, they passed through Phoenicia and Shomeron, relating the conversion of the gentiles. And they were causing great joy to all the brothers. And having arrived in Yarushalam, they were received by the Assembly and the Emissaries and the Elders. And they reported all that Alahym had done with them. And some of the Believers who belonged to the Sect of the Pharisees, rose up, saying, “It is necessary to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the Torah of Mashah (Moses). And the Emissaries and Elders came together to look into this matter.”

-Acts 16:2-6

The passage goes on to explain after a great debate, Peter finally quieted the crowd by sharing the self-evident answer. He declared, if their Belief in the Messiah’s Sacrifice made them Clean before Yah, so His Set Apart Spirit was able to dwell within them, circumcision of flesh was obviously unnecessary, as the Reception of the Set Apart Spirit is our evidence and assurance of Eternal Salvation. Therefore, they considered circumcision of flesh an “unbearable weight” no longer required or encouraged for either the natural-born Hebrews, or Gentiles alike:

“And when there had been much dispute, Kĕpha (Peter) rose up and said to them, “Men, brothers, you know that a good while ago Alahym chose among us, that by my mouth the gentiles should hear the Word of the Good News and Believe. And Alahym, who knows the heart, bore Witness to them, by giving them the Set Apart Spirit, as also to us, and made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by Belief. Now then, why do you try Alahym by putting a yoke on the neck of the taught ones which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But through the Grace of the Master יהושע Messiah we trust to be saved, in the same Way as they.”  And all the crowd was silent and were listening to Barnabah and Sha’ul declaring how many miracles and wonders Alahym did among the gentiles, through them.” -Acts 15:7-12

            However, Peter was not Paul and Barnabah’s only support. Ya’aqub (aka "James") also agreed. We see him proclaim the same, and goes on to express how this was always prophesied in Scripture to be the case:

“And after they were silent, Ya‛aqub (James) answered, saying, “Men, brothers, listen to me: Shim‛on has declared how Alahym first Visited the Gentiles to take out of them a People for His Name. And the Words of the prophets agree with this, as it has been Written: ‘After this I shall return and rebuild the Booth of Daud (David) which has fallen down. And I shall rebuild its ruins, and I shall set it up, so that the Remnant of mankind shall seek יהוה, even all the Gentiles on Whom My Name has been called, says יהוה Who is doing all this,’ Who has made this known from of Old.”

 -Acts 15:13-18

            Once declaring this prophetic manifestation, Ya’acub decides they should clearly define which laws were truly required for Saving Faith in Messiah, so there would no longer be any confusion on the matter. To prove this to those who would argue otherwise, he suggests sending Sila and Yahudah (Sila) as trustworthy Witnesses, along with a Letter Written from the Elders, which Testify all the Emissaries, Assembly, Leaders, and Elders were convicted the Set Apart Spirit has confirmed this as Truth. He explained this would be necessary as new converts may continue to be confused, since they often visit Synagogues during Shabbat Assembling where the reading the Law of Mashah was continually read by Pharisees and Judaizers in every city:

“Therefore, I judge that we should not trouble those from among the gentiles who are turning to Alahym, but that we Write to them to abstain from the defilements of idols, and from whoring, and from what is strangled, and from blood. For from ancient generations Mashah (Moses) has, in every city, those proclaiming him – being read in the Congregations every Sabbath.” Then it seemed good to the Emissaries and Elders, with all the Assembly, to send Chosen Men from among them to Antioch with Sha’ul and Barnabah: Yahudah being called Barsabba, and Sila, Leading Men among the brothers, having Written by their hand this: “The Emissaries and the Elders and the Brothers, to the Brothers who are of the Gentiles in Antioch, and Syria, and Kilikia: Greetings. Since we have heard that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, unsettling your lives, to whom we gave no Command – it seemed good to us, having become of one mind, to send Chosen Men to you with our beloved Barnabah and Sha’ul, men who have given up their lives for the Name of our Master יהושע Messiah. We have therefore sent Yahudah and Sila, who are also confirming this by Word of Mouth. For it seemed good to the Set Apart Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessities: that you abstain from what is offered to idols, and blood, and what is strangled, and whoring. If you keep yourselves from these, you shall do well. Be strong! They, therefore, being sent off, went to Antioch. And having gathered the crowd together, they delivered the Letter. And having read it, they rejoiced over its encouragement. And Yahudah and Sila, being themselves also prophets, encouraged the brothers with many Words and strengthened them.”

-Acts 15:13-32

            However, because the Law of Circumcision was once required for Salvation during the First Covenant Age, we learn this topic continued to be a point of contention for those who did not accept the New Covenant Promises. Therefore, Paul continually encouraged new converts to resist the peer-pressure of the Judaizers proclaiming the entire Law of Mashah as necessary in the Synagogues each Shabbat:

“Having then such Expectation, we use much boldness of speech, and not like Mashah (Moses), who put a veil over his face so that the Children of Yasharal should not look steadily at the End of what was passing away. But their minds were hardened, for to this day, when the Old Covenant is being read, that same veil remains, not lifted, because in Messiah it is taken away. But to this day, when Mashah is being read, a veil lies on their heart. And when one turns to the Master, the veil is taken away. Now יהוה is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of יהוה is, there is Freedom. And we all, as with unveiled face we see as in a mirror the esteem of יהוה, are being transformed into the same likeness from esteem to esteem, as from יהוה, the Spirit.”

-1 Corinthians 3:12-18

Therefore, Paul insisted they instead rely on the Witness of those who were Anointed by the Messiah, sent by the Father, and empowered through the Set Apart Spirit to share the Truth:

“Are we to begin to recommend ourselves again?

Or do we need, as some, Letters of Recommendation to you, or from you?

You are our Letter, having been Written in our hearts, known and Read by all men,

making it obvious that you are a Letter of Messiah, Served by us,

Written not with ink but by the Spirit of the Living Alahym,

not on Tablets of Stone but on fleshly Tablets of the Heart.

And such trust we have toward Alahym, through the Messiah.

Not that we are Competent in ourselves to reckon any matter as from ourselves,

but our Competence is from Alahym,

Who also made us Competent as Servants of a New Covenant,

not of the Letter but of the Spirit, for the Letter kills but the Spirit gives life.

But if the Administering of Death in Letters, Engraved on Stones, was esteemed,

so that the Children of Yasharal were unable to look steadily at the face of Mashah (Moses)

because of the esteem of his face, which was passing away,

how much more esteemed shall the Administering of the Spirit not be?

For if the Administering of Condemnation had esteem,

the Administering of Righteousness exceeds much more in esteem.

For indeed what was made esteemed had no esteem in this respect,

in view of the esteem that excels.

For if that which is passing away was esteemed,

much more that which remains in esteem.”

-2 Corinthians 3:1-11

And throughout his Letters, Paul continued to remind the Gentile Converts that the Set Apart Spirit dwelling in us is our Sign of Salvation (rather than Circumcision of Flesh):

"For as many as are led by the Spirit of Alahym, these are Sons of Alahym. For you did not receive the Spirit of Bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of Adoption by Whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” Spirit Himself bears Witness with our spirit that we are Children of Alahym, and if Children, also Heirs – truly Heirs of Alahym, and Co-heirs with Messiah, if indeed we suffer with Him, in order that we also be exalted together."

-Romans 8:14-17

"...you were sealed with the Set Apart Spirit of Promise,

Who is the Pledge of our Inheritance,

until the Redemption of the Purchased Possession,

to the Praise of His esteem."

-Ephesians 1:13-14

"But He who establishes us with you in Messiah and has Anointed us is Alahym, Who also Sealed us, and gave the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge." -2 Corin. 1:21-22

"He saved us, not by works of Righteousness which we have done but according to His Compassion, through the washing of rebirth, and renewal by the Set Apart Spirit,

which He poured out on us richly through יהושע Messiah our Saviour,

that having been Declared Right by His Favour we should become Heirs according to the expectation of everlasting life." -Titus 3:5-7

If Paul No Longer Taught Circumcision,

Why Did He Circumcise Timothy (Acts 16)?

Modern Judaizers continue to take issue with Paul’s seemingly self-contradictory statements, while others misunderstand him to be conflicted on the matter, citing his choice to circumcise Timothy in Acts 16:1. For this reason, they sometimes reject Paul’s Letters as Inspired in a valiant effort to “obey the Father in Heaven, rather than men”. Alternatively, this instance is often provided as "evidence" of Paul’s belief that the Law of Circumcision has not changed, or that he did so at minimum believing it was medically beneficial for their journey. However, if we read the verse more carefully, we learn neither perspectives are correct. Luke explains Paul’s intention was not to obey the Law of Circumcision of Flesh, nor to prevent sickness and disease, but to appease the Judaizers in those places so they could freely share the true Gospel:

“And he (Paul) came to Derbe and Lustra. And see, a certain taught one was there, named Timothy, the son of a certain Yahudy woman who believed – but his father was Greek – who was well spoken of by the brothers who were at Lustra and Ikonion. Sha’ul (Paul) wished to have this one go with him. And he took him and circumcised him because of the Yahudym who were in those places, for they all knew that his father was Greek. And as they went through the cities, they delivered to them the Regulations to keep, which were decided by the Emissaries and Elders at Yarushalam. Then, indeed, the Assemblies were strengthened in the Belief, and increased in number every day.” -Acts 16:1-5

As we see, the passage asserts he only did so "because of the Yahudym" knew "his father was a Greek". In fact, as they went throughout the land, they actually reaffirmed the “Regulations” decided at Yarushalam by the Apostles and Elders of the Assembly of Messiah. Some may assume these “Regulations” would naturally include the necessity of obeying the Law of the Circumcision of Flesh, however the chapter just prior reveals this is not the case. In fact, Luke takes great pains to explain physical circumcision was deliberately excluded from these Regulations after much debate and contention throughout Acts 15, as we just discussed. Therefore, Paul's choice to circumcise Timothy is not evidence he believed it was still necessary or required. But still, why would the "Yahudym (Jews) in those places" matter to Paul if he didn't believe Greeks had to be circumcised? To understand, we should consider Paul's own Testimony in light of the situation at hand. For instance, as we’ve learned throughout the previous segments, physical sacrifices during the Feast Days were once required during the First Covenant Age:

"Three times a year all your males appear before Yahuah your Alahym in the place which He chooses: at the Festival of Unleavened Bread, and at the Festival of Weeks, and at the Festival of Booths. And none should appear before Yahuah empty-handed, but each one with the gift of his hand, according to the blessing of Yahuah your Alahym which He has given you." -Deuteronomy 16:16-17

            Secondly, false teachers and false prophets were not simply ignored, or cast out of the Assembly, they were commanded to be put to death by stoning:

“Walk after יהוה your Alahym and fear Him, and guard His commands and obey His voice, and serve Him and cling to Him. And that prophet or that dreamer of dreams is put to death, because he has spoken apostasy against יהוה your Alahym – who brought you out of the land of Matsraym (Egypt) and redeemed you from the house of bondage – to make you stray from the way in which יהוה your Alahym commanded you to walk. Thus, you shall purge the evil from your midst. When your brother, the son of your mother, or your son or your daughter, or the wife of your bosom, or your friend who is as your own being, entices you secretly, saying, ‘Let us go and serve other mighty ones’– which you have not known, neither you nor your fathers, of the mighty ones of the people which are all around you, near to you or far off from you, from one end of the earth to the other end of the earth – do not agree with him or listen to him, nor shall your eye pardon him, nor spare him or conceal him, but you shall certainly kill him. Your hand is first against him to put him to death, and afterward the hand of all the people, and you shall stone him with stones until he dies, because he sought to entice you away from יהוה your Alahym, who brought you out of the land of Matsraym, from the house of bondage. And let all Yasharal hear and fear, and not again do any such evil matter as this in your midst.”

-Deuteronomy 13:4-11

Even in this law, Paul was "zealous" and obedient to the best of his ability (before coming to the Revelation of Messiah’s Manifestation in the Flesh):

“Men, brothers, and fathers, hear my defense before you now.” And when they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, they kept greater silence. And he said: “I am indeed a Yahudy, having been born in Tarsos of Kilikia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamli’ĕl, having been instructed according to the exactness of the Torah of our fathers, being zealous for Alahym, as you all are today, who persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering up into prisons both men and women, as also the High Priest bears me Witness, and all the eldership, from whom I also received letters to the brothers, and went to Damascus to bring in chains even those who were there to Yarushalam to be punished."

-Acts 22:1-5

As zealous as Paul was for keeping the First Covenant Torah "exactly", after the Revelation of the Messiah’s Manifestation on the Road to Damascus, Paul decided not to “go up to Yarushalam” (Jerusalem) for several years, not even for the three required Annual Festivals. However, when he did finally decide to go up, we find he had much contention with “those of the Party of the Circumcision” in their grievances against him. Not just for no longer participating in the sacrificial system for several years, but also regarding his blatant disregard for the Law of Circumcision of Flesh. Because Paul no longer believed or taught circumcision was necessary for Believers, many “of the Party of the Circumcision” such as Pharisees, Sadducees and even Messianic Judaizers sought to stone and kill him, believing he was a false prophet as if they were teaching “apostasy”.

Acts 9:19 - Paul did not return to Yarushalam for "several days" (three years to be exact, Gal. 1:16-19) immediately after meeting the Messiah, instead he went to Arabia (where Abraham’s other children dwell) and then returned to Damascus

Gal. 2:1 - Paul didn’t return to Yarushalam for 14 years after going up the first time

Gal. 2:3 - All that time, Paul did not require Titus to be circumcised even though he was a Greek, and they actively resisted the pressure of the Judaizers who'd have rather seen him circumcised (Gal. 2:5)

Acts 24:17 - "after many years" Paul finally went up to Yarushalam to make offerings, but not originally intending to bring sacrifices during the Feasts or randomly deciding to offer a Nazarite Vow, as his original intent was simply to share the Gospel:

“And now see, I go bound in the Spirit to Yarushalam, not knowing what is going to meet me there, except that the Set Apart Spirit Witnesses in every city, saying that chains and pressures await me. But I do not count my life of any value to me, so that I might accomplish my Mission with joy, and the Service which I received from the Master יהושע, to bear Witness to the Good News of the Grace of Alahym. And now see, I know that you all, among whom I went about proclaiming the Reign of Alahym, shall see my face no more.”

-Acts 20:22-25

His choice to bring sacrifices was a last minute change of plans. But why would Paul do so, knowing they were unnecessary? Luke explains some brothers became fearful Paul would be killed for teaching circumcision and certain other laws were no longer necessary. Here they convinced him to once again, “appear as those under the law, to those under the law”, as he referred to it in 1 Corinthians 9:20, in order to preserve his life:

"And when they heard it, they praised the Master. And they said to him, “You see, brother, how many thousands of Yahudym there are who have Believed, and all are ardent for the Torah. And they have been informed about you that you teach all the Yahudym who are among the Gentiles to forsake Mashah (Moses), saying not to circumcise the children nor to walk according to the practices. What then is it? They shall certainly hear that you have come. So do this, what we say to you: We have four men who have taken a vow. Take them and be cleansed with them, and pay their expenses so that they shave their heads. And all shall know that what they have been informed about you is not so, but that you yourself also walk orderly, keeping the Torah. But concerning the gentiles who Believe, we have Written and decided that they should keep themselves from what is offered to idols, and blood, and what is strangled, and whoring." -Acts 21:20-25

Paul explains he went along with the ruse, not out of his own fear for life, nor because he personally believed circumcision and sacrifices were still necessary, as they explained even here they would write to the Gentiles to reaffirm circumcision and sacrificial offering was no longer necessary, but simply to be afforded the opportunity to share the true Gospel to those in Yarushalam before zealous Judaizers discredited him or killed him by mistakingly believing he was "breaking torah" as a "false prophet":

“For though I am free from all, I made myself a Servant to all, in order to win more,

and to the Yahudym I became as a Yahudym, that I might win Yahudym;

to those who are under Torah, as under Torah, so as to win those who are under Torah;

to those without Torah, as without Torah –

not being without Torah toward Alahym, but under Torah of Messiah –

so as to win those who are without Torah.

To the weak I became as weak, so as to win the weak.

To all men I have become all, so as to save some, by all means.

And I do this because of the Good News, so as to become a fellow-partaker with it.”

-1 Corinthians 3:19-23

Therefore, although Paul thought it well to go up to Yarushalam appearing as one “under the Law of Mashah” by supporting a local Nazarite Offering (Acts 21:17-24) in this instance, many other brothers and sisters were sent to Paul by the Father through the Set Apart Spirit of Prophecy to inform him this was not the Father's Will, and commanding him not to go:

Acts 21:4 - "And having found taught ones, we remained there seven days. And they told Sha’ul through the Spirit not to go up to Yarushalam."

Acts 21:9-14 - "Now this one had four maiden daughters who prophesied. And as we were staying many days, a certain prophet named Ḥag̅aḇ came down from Yahudah, and having come to us, he took the girdle of Sha’ul, bound his own hands and feet, and said, “Thus says the Set Apart Spirit, ‘Thus shall the Yahudym at Yarushalam bind the man who owns this girdle, and deliver him into the hands of the gentiles.’ ” And when we heard this, both we and those from that place begged him not to go up to Yarushalam. And Sha’ul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Yarushalam for the Name of the Master יהושע.” And as he could not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, “Let the desire of the Master be done.”

As Luke said, after several Spirit led Believers told Paul not to go, they finally gave up and one brother said, "Let the Father's Will be done" after Paul refused to heed their warnings (Acts 21:14). And if the Set Apart Spirit's command is not enough, it was obviously not the Father's Will as Paul was actually prevented from completing the sacrifices by his immediate arrest (Acts 21:26-28).

Instead, he was able to use that public platform to preach the true Gospel (Acts 22:13-21). As such, the disciples and Paul agreed to reassert that the Levitical sacrifices and Abrahamic circumcision were unnecessary, and outlined the only necessary laws for conversion, and acceptance into the Faith of Messiah (Acts 21:25). Paul later rebukes the practice of circumcision done by other Apostles out of fear, embarrassment, or when they were convinced it was still necessary:

Gal. 2:9-21 - Paul rebuked Peter when Peter became embarrassed to be seen by Judaizers spending time with Gentile believers who were not circumcised

Gal. 5:12 - Paul says even Barnabas was "led astray by their hypocrisy (Gal. 5:12)" for requiring Gentiles to become circumcised of flesh to appease the Judaizers (Gal. 3:12-13)

Gal. 2:3-5 &14 - Paul states he was being persecuted for teaching circumcision of flesh was no longer necessary (Gal. 2:3-5 & 14, 3:1-3, 5:6, 6:15, Rom. 2:26-29, Rom. 15:1-3 & 24-27, 1 Corin. 9:18-20, Acts 21:21)

Thus, Paul's singular decision to support a Nazarite Vow was the only example in all of Scripture by any anointed Apostle attempting to make literal sacrifices. However, even this offering was prevented from being completed. Therefore, there are zero examples of the the Messiah's disciples ever actually making any sacrifices including animal, food or drink offerings according to the Law of Mashah (Moses) post-resurrection. Likewise, the Scriptures reveal circumcision of flesh, which was a type of blood sacrifice which served to Set Apart the men of the Old Covenant Age has no further spiritual benefit for Believers in Messiah, nor describes any necessary health benefit. As Scripture states, we have been "Set Apart" through the Atoning Sacrifice of Messiah "once and for all." The Sign of the New Covenant is the Set Apart Spirit dwelling in us, Who serves as a guarantee of our Faith unto Salvation. So, although some disciples were sometimes convinced to practice physical circumcision in order to appease the Judaizers, the entire Assembly, elders, apostles and anointed leaders of the Believers' Congregations eventually unanimously decided circumcision of flesh is no longer required.

Since the Laws That Were Changed include a Spiritual Lesson,

What Does Circumcision Mean for Believers in the New Covenant?

Although it is only by Belief in the Blood of Messiah we are saved (Romans 3-4), as Ya'acub so eloquently expresses in Ya'acub (James) 2, true Belief is made evident through our actions. As he explains, those who truly believe the Messiah has become their Eternal Propitiation and was resurrected as their Eternal High Priest and King will "do their utmost" (2 Tim. 2:15) to learn to walk in "perfect" obedience (Math./Matt. 5:48), trusting His Ways are good. They will not continue to struggle in "sins unto death" (1 Yahu/John 5:16-18, Heb. 6:1-8). They will cast off their flesh and walk "worthily" of their Calling (Eph. 4:1) as a "Royal Set Apart Priesthood of Righteousness" (1 Peter 2):

"Let us walk becomingly, as in the day, not in wild parties and drunkenness, not in living together and indecencies, not in fighting and envy, but put on the Master יהושע Messiah, and make no provision for the lusts of the flesh." -Romans 13:13-14

"For the entire Torah is completed in one Word, in this,

“You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” And if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another! And I say: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not accomplish the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh. And these are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you desire to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under Torah. And the works of the flesh are well-known, which are these: adultery, whoring, uncleanness, indecency, idolatry, drug sorcery, hatred, quarrels, jealousies, fits of rage, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, murders, drunkenness, wild parties, and the like – of which I forewarn you, even as I also said before, that those who practice such as these shall not Inherit the Reign of Alahym. But the Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, trustworthiness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no Torah. And those who are of Messiah have impaled the flesh with its passions and the desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit."

-Galatians 5:14-25

So, although Circumcision of Flesh is no longer required, the Word does state Circumcision of Heart is now evermore imperative:

"For circumcision indeed profits if you practice the Torah,

but if you are a Transgressor of the Torah, your circumcision has become uncircumcision. So, if an uncircumcised one watches over the Righteousnesses of the Torah,

shall not his uncircumcision be reckoned as circumcision?

And he who is naturally uncircumcised, if he fulfills the Law,

will he not judge you who though having the Letter of the Law and Circumcision,

are a Transgressor of the Law? For he is not a Yahudy (Jew) who is so outwardly,

neither is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh.

But a Yahudy (Jew) is he who is so inwardly, and circumcision is that of the heart,

in Spirit, not literally, whose praise is not from men but from Alahym."

-Romans 2:25-29

Therefore, let us hold fast to the Gospel we have received from the whole of Scripture, and resist those who would lead us back under the First Covenant Torah, while seeking to understand and walk out those commands which are still necessary:

"So, brothers, having boldness to enter into the Set Apart Place by the blood of יהושע, by a New and Living Way which He instituted for us, through the Veil, that is, His Flesh, having a High Priest over the House of Alahym, let us draw near with a true heart in Completeness of Belief, having our hearts sprinkled from a wicked conscience and our bodies washed with clean water. Let us hold fast the Confession of our Expectation without yielding, for He Who Promised is trustworthy. And let us be concerned for one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the Assembling of ourselves together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging, and so much more as you see the Day coming near."

-Hebrews 10:19-25

"See to it that no one makes a prey of you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary matters of the world, and not according to Messiah. Because in Him dwells all the Completeness of the Mightiness bodily,

and you have been made Complete in Him, who is the Head of all Principality and Authority. In Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not made with hands, in the putting off of the body of the Sins of the Flesh, by the Circumcision of Messiah, having been buried with Him in immersion, in which you also were raised with Him through the Belief in the Working of Alahym, who raised Him from the dead. And you, being dead in your Trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, having blotted out the Certificate of Debt against us – by the dogmas – which stood against us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. Having stripped the principalities and the authorities, He made a public display of them, having prevailed over them in it. Let no one therefore judge you in eating or in drinking, or in respect of a festival or a new moon or Sabbaths – which are a shadow of what is to come – but the Body of the Messiah."

-Colossians 2:8-17