Definition: For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Romans 2:25. It’s a really important and thought-provoking statement about righteousness and obedience. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it means in plain language: “For circumcision verily profiteth” : Think of “circumcision” as a symbol – a mark that was done on Jewish babies to show their loyalty to God. This verse says that following the rules of the law (like keeping it) actually benefits you spiritually. It’s like a good practice that leads to something positive. “If thou keep the law” : This means living according to God's instructions and guidelines as outlined in the Bible – things like honesty, kindness, respect for others, and following moral principles. “But if thou be a breaker of the law…” : This is where it gets interesting. If you don’t follow the rules, if you disobey them, then your “circumcision” (that mark of loyalty) becomes undone. It's like losing something valuable – it's no longer a good sign of your relationship with God. So, the whole verse is saying: Living a righteous and obedient life – following God’s law – actually earns you favor with God. However, if you stray from that path, you lose your reward. It’s about demonstrating love and loyalty to God through your actions. What it's about in the bigger picture: This verse is often interpreted as a warning against legalism – trying to follow rules too rigidly without understanding their true meaning or purpose. It emphasizes that genuine faith is more important than just obeying rules. It’s about a relationship with God, not just following what others say. In short, it's a powerful message about the importance of living a life rooted in love and obedience to God's will. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme?