Definition: In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really important passage from the Bible. It’s a pretty complex idea, but we can make it understandable. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is about forgiveness and liberation from our own shortcomings. It’s saying that we are connected to Christ, and through Him, we are freed from the burden of sin. Let’s break it down word by word: “In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands…” – This is a bit tricky, but it means we're already part of a circle – a group of people who have been marked in a specific way. "Circumcision" was a ritual practiced by Jewish people, and it meant cutting the foreskin (the head of the penis) – a symbolic act of purification and remembrance of the covenant between God and Abraham. It’s like a mark of belonging to a special group. “Made without hands” is a bit metaphorical; it suggests this marking wasn't done by human effort, but rather through a divine act. “in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh…” – This is where the core message lies. "The body of the sins" refers to all our mistakes, wrongdoings, and imperfections as humans. We’re all prone to sin – we make choices that go against God's will. “Putting off” means removing or abandoning these things. “by the circumcision of Christ:” - This is the crucial part! "Circumcision" again refers to the ritual practiced on infants, but here it’s connected to Jesus Christ – our savior and Lord. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross made us “circumcised” – we are now marked with His forgiveness and His presence. Putting it all together - a simple summary: The verse is saying that we are united with Christ through his death and resurrection, which removes us from the influence of our own sinful nature. We’re no longer bound to our past mistakes or the burden of sin itself. We've been forgiven, set free, and we have a new beginning with Christ as our guide. Why is this important? This verse highlights that forgiveness is given to us through Jesus. It’s not something we earn; it’s a gift from God that makes us part of His family. It encourages humility – recognizing that we are all flawed and needing God's grace. --- Resources for further understanding: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/1113/Colossians](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/1113/Colossians) GotQuestions.org: [https://www.gotquestions.org/Colossians21.html](https://www.gotquestions.org/Colossians21.html) Would you like me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Compare it to another biblical passage?