Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "New Birth" or "Circumcision of the Heart" is a profound theological theme found throughout the Bible, signifying a spiritual transformation and renewal that transcends mere physical or ritualistic observance. This transformation is essential for entering into a covenant relationship with God and is a central tenet of Christian faith.Old Testament Foundations The idea of circumcision as a sign of covenant begins with Abraham in Genesis 17:10-11, where God commands physical circumcision as a sign of the covenant between Him and Abraham's descendants. However, the Old Testament also introduces the concept of a deeper, spiritual circumcision. In Deuteronomy 10:16, Moses exhorts the Israelites, "Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and stiffen your necks no more." This call to "circumcise the heart" emphasizes an inward transformation, a turning away from stubbornness and sin towards obedience and love for God. Jeremiah echoes this theme, warning of judgment for those who are circumcised in the flesh but not in the heart: "Circumcise yourselves to the LORD; remove the foreskin of your hearts, O men of Judah and people of Jerusalem" (Jeremiah 4:4). This prophetic call underscores the insufficiency of external rituals without genuine internal change. New Testament Fulfillment The New Testament further develops the theme of heart circumcision, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In Romans 2:28-29, Paul writes, "A man is not a Jew because he is one outwardly, nor is circumcision only outward and physical. No, a man is a Jew because he is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code." Here, Paul emphasizes that true belonging to God's people is marked by an inward transformation wrought by the Holy Spirit, rather than mere adherence to the law. In Colossians 2:11-12, Paul further explains, "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. And having been buried with Him in baptism, you were raised with Him through your faith in the power of God, who raised Him from the dead." This passage links the spiritual circumcision of the heart with the believer's union with Christ in His death and resurrection, symbolized through baptism. Theological Implications The circumcision of the heart is integral to the doctrine of regeneration, or the "New Birth," which Jesus discusses with Nicodemus in John 3:3-7. Jesus declares, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." This new birth is a work of the Holy Spirit, transforming the believer's heart and enabling them to live in accordance with God's will. The heart circumcision signifies the removal of the sinful nature and the implantation of a new nature that desires to follow God. It is a divine act of grace, marking the believer as part of the New Covenant community, characterized by a personal and intimate relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Practical Application For believers, the circumcision of the heart calls for a life of ongoing repentance and faith. It challenges Christians to examine their hearts continually, seeking the Spirit's work in conforming them to the image of Christ. This inward transformation manifests outwardly in a life of love, obedience, and service to God and others, reflecting the reality of the New Birth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 30:6And the LORD your God will circumcise your heart, and the heart of your seed, to love the LORD your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, that you may live. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 2:29 Colossians 2:11 Library The Marks of the New Birth Title Index Number Index The New Birth Sermons on Several Occasions John Chapter vii. 19-24 Psalm VI. The Great Privilege of those that are Born of God Concerning the Sacrament of Baptism Waiting Faith Rewarded and Strengthened by New Revelations Resources What does it mean that a Christian is a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17)? | GotQuestions.orgWho are the New Calvinists, and what are the beliefs of New Calvinism? | GotQuestions.org How can I help new believers? | GotQuestions.org New: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Neophytes: General Scriptures Concerning New Moon: Traffic at Time of, Suspended Select Readings: The New Heaven and the New Earth The New Birth is for the Glory of God The New Birth is of the Mercy of God The New Birth is of the Will of God The New Birth: A Spiritual Resurrection The New Birth: All Saints Partake of The New Birth: Circumcision of the Heart The New Birth: Connected With Adoption The New Birth: Effected by Christ The New Birth: Effected by God The New Birth: Effected by The Holy Spirit The New Birth: Evidenced by Brotherly Love The New Birth: Evidenced by Faith in Christ The New Birth: Evidenced by Righteousness The New Birth: Manner of Effecting--Illustrated The New Birth: Newness of Life The New Birth: None Can Enter Heaven Without The New Birth: Partaking of the Divine Nature The New Birth: Preserves from Satan's Devices The New Birth: Produces Delight in God's Law The New Birth: Produces Hatred of Sin The New Birth: Produces Knowledge of God The New Birth: Produces Likeness to Christ The New Birth: Produces Likeness to God The New Birth: Produces Victory Over the World The New Birth: Putting on the New Man The New Birth: The Corruption of Human Nature Requires The New Birth: The Ignorant Cavil At The New Birth: The Washing of Regeneration The New Birth: Through the Instrumentality of The Ministry of the Gospel The New Birth: Through the Instrumentality of The Resurrection of Christ The New Birth: Through the Instrumentality of The Word of God Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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