To circumcise is to remove the prepuce or foreskin off of a penis. In the Old Testament times, it was used as a holy ritual to consecrate or set apart those who followed God. It was established as a command for the nation of Israel.
(Some cultures practice female circumcision, though this isn’t commanded in the Bible).
After the death and resurrection of Jesus, circumcision was no longer required of his followers (Acts 15:1-29). (Even so, some Jewish converts to Christianity wrongly tried to impose it on others.)
The sacrament of baptism (which is for both genders and all nationalities) is the New Testament replacement for circumcision.
Key verse about Circumcise: This is my covenant with you and your descendants after you, the covenant you are to keep: Every male among you shall be circumcised (Genesis 17:10, NIV).
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront a status quo faith and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
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