The Significance of Circumcision - 1 Cor 7 & Phil 3

We continue to trace Paul's teaching on circumcision in 1 Cor & Phil. When the rite was performed to identify an ethnic Jew, Paul endorsed it - as with Timothy. But he denied it's necessity for Gentiles - as with Titus. Paul himself observed ceremonial ritual as his liberty, but adamantly opposed it as a method of justification. To the Corinthians he writes "circumcision is nothing." He warns the Philippians against the false circumcision & informs them that we, in the New Covenant, are the true circumcision identified by our worship in the Spirit. We are warned against religious pride & urged to emphasize our common blessing of new life in Christ.