Colossians 2:11

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.

Study Bible

In Him
This phrase emphasizes the believer's union with Christ. The Greek term "ἐν αὐτῷ" (en autō) signifies a deep, spiritual connection. In the context of Colossians, Paul frequently underscores the believer's identity and completeness in Christ. This union is not merely positional but transformative, affecting every aspect of the believer's life. Historically, this reflects the early Christian understanding that salvation and sanctification are found solely in Christ, contrasting with the Judaizers' emphasis on adherence to the law.

you were also circumcised
The Greek word for circumcised here is "περιετμήθητε" (perietmēthēte), which refers to a spiritual circumcision. This is not a physical act but a metaphorical one, signifying the cutting away of the old, sinful nature. In the Jewish tradition, circumcision was a sign of the covenant between God and His people. Paul reinterprets this rite to illustrate the believer's new covenant relationship with God through Christ, emphasizing a heart transformation rather than a physical ritual.

in the putting off of your sinful nature
The phrase "putting off" comes from the Greek "ἀπέκδυσις" (apekdysis), meaning a complete removal or stripping away. This denotes a decisive break from the power and influence of sin. The "sinful nature," or "σάρξ" (sarx), often translated as "flesh," represents the fallen human condition. Paul is teaching that through Christ, believers are empowered to live free from the dominion of sin, a radical departure from their former way of life.

with the circumcision performed by Christ
This circumcision is described as being "performed by Christ," indicating a divine action. The Greek "ἐν τῇ περιτομῇ τοῦ Χριστοῦ" (en tē peritomē tou Christou) suggests that this is a spiritual operation carried out by Christ Himself. It signifies the believer's participation in Christ's death and resurrection, where the old self is crucified, and a new creation emerges. This highlights the sufficiency of Christ's work, contrasting with human efforts to achieve righteousness.

and not by human hands
The phrase "not by human hands" underscores the divine nature of this transformation. The Greek "οὐ χειροποιήτῳ" (ou cheiropoiētō) literally means "not made with hands," emphasizing that this circumcision is not a human endeavor but a supernatural act of God. This distinction is crucial in the context of Colossians, where Paul addresses false teachings that promoted human traditions and rituals as necessary for spiritual growth. Instead, Paul affirms that true spiritual renewal comes from Christ alone, independent of human intervention.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who wrote the letter to the Colossians, addressing issues of false teachings and emphasizing the supremacy of Christ.

2. Colossae
An ancient city in Asia Minor where the church addressed in this letter was located.

3. Christ
Central figure in Christianity, whose spiritual circumcision is discussed in this verse.

4. Circumcision
A physical act in Jewish tradition symbolizing the covenant with God, here used metaphorically to describe a spiritual transformation.

5. Sinful Nature
The inherent human tendency to sin, which believers are called to put off through Christ.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Transformation Over Physical Rituals
The circumcision mentioned in Colossians 2:11 is not a physical act but a spiritual transformation performed by Christ. This emphasizes the importance of inner change over external rituals.

Putting Off the Sinful Nature
Believers are called to put off their sinful nature, akin to removing old garments. This is a continuous process of sanctification, enabled by Christ's work in us.

Christ's Supremacy in Salvation
The verse underscores that salvation and spiritual renewal are accomplished through Christ alone, not by human efforts or traditions.

Unity in Christ
The spiritual circumcision unites all believers, regardless of their background, into one body in Christ, breaking down barriers of division.

Living Out Our New Identity
As those who have been spiritually circumcised, believers are encouraged to live out their new identity in Christ, reflecting His character in their daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the concept of spiritual circumcision change your perspective on religious rituals and traditions?

2. In what ways can you actively "put off" your sinful nature in your daily life, and how does this relate to the work of Christ in you?

3. How does the idea of spiritual circumcision help you understand your identity and unity with other believers?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to live out your new identity in Christ, as described in Colossians 2:11?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, such as Romans 2:29 and Philippians 3:3, deepen your understanding of the spiritual transformation Paul describes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 2:29
Discusses the concept of circumcision of the heart, emphasizing inward spiritual transformation over outward physical rituals.

Philippians 3:3
Highlights the idea of worshiping by the Spirit of God and glorying in Christ Jesus, not relying on the flesh.

Ephesians 2:11-13
Explains the unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ, breaking down the barrier of the law and physical circumcision.

Deuteronomy 10:16
Calls for the circumcision of the heart, a theme echoed in the New Testament as a metaphor for spiritual renewal.