The Book of Galatians
Read Galatians 5:1-12
"For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love."(Galatians 5:6)
If you have read Acts 11 and 15-16, you might think that the issue of circumcision for Gentiles was settled at the Jerusalem Council. The apostles affirmed that Gentiles were not required to be circumcised but were encouraged to walk in faith in Christ and live by the Holy Spirit. They were to abstain from things polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, and from consuming blood or strangled animals (Acts 15:19).
Yet, some Jewish believers continued to trouble the Gentile Christians, insisting that salvation required circumcision. Trusting in such teachings meant rejecting the free gift of salvation through Jesus. Paul made it clear—our righteousness comes through faith, not through external rituals.
Action:
Be discerning. False teachings often disguise themselves as godliness. Paul warned Timothy that in the last days, people will be deceived by those who distort the truth (2 Timothy 3:1-7). Stay rooted in Scripture to recognize false doctrines.
Use God's Word wisely. The Bible is our foundation for teaching, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). Equip yourself with His truth so you can stand firm in faith.
Live boldly for Christ. Do not be ashamed of the gospel that brings true freedom. Stand confidently as a servant of the Most High King, knowing you are no longer a slave to sin or human traditions.
Encourage others. Help fellow believers remain steadfast in faith, reminding them that salvation is by grace alone through faith in Christ.
5 For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
2 Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. 3 I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. 4 You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace. 5 For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.
7 You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth? 8 This persuasion is not from him who calls you. 9 A little leaven leavens the whole lump. 10 I have confidence in the Lord that you will take no other view, and the one who is troubling you will bear the penalty, whoever he is. 11 But if I, brothers, still preach circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been removed. 12 I wish those who unsettle you would emasculate themselves!