Romans 2:29

But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the spirit, [and] not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of God.

But {G235} he is a Jew {G2453}, which is one inwardly {G1722}{G2927}; and {G2532} circumcision {G4061} is that of the heart {G2588}, in {G1722} the spirit {G4151}, and not {G3756} in the letter {G1121}; whose {G3739} praise {G1868} is not {G3756} of {G1537} men {G444}, but {G235} of {G1537} God {G2316}.

On the contrary, the real Jew is one inwardly; and true circumcision is of the heart, spiritual not literal; so that his praise comes not from other people but from God.

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. Such a man’s praise does not come from men, but from God.

but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.

Commentary

Romans 2:29 provides a powerful definition of true identity and righteousness in God's eyes, shifting the focus from external, physical markers to the internal, spiritual reality. Paul concludes his argument regarding the limitations of relying solely on the Law or physical lineage by stating that a true "Jew" (in the sense of being right before God) is one inwardly transformed. The sign of this transformation, he explains, is not physical circumcision but a spiritual "circumcision of the heart," enabled by the Spirit rather than mere adherence to written rules. Ultimately, the value of such a person is not measured by human approval but by the praise that comes from God.

Context

This verse is the climax of Paul's argument in Romans chapters 1 and 2, where he demonstrates that both Gentiles and Jews are accountable to God and under the power of sin. In Romans 2, he specifically challenges the Jewish belief that possession of the Law or physical circumcision guarantees righteousness before God. He argues that outward observance without inward change is insufficient (as stated in the preceding verse, Romans 2:28). Romans 2:29 presents the true standard: an internal, spiritual reality that aligns with God's will.

Key Themes

  • Inward vs. Outward Religion: The verse clearly distinguishes between external religious markers (like physical circumcision) and the internal state of the heart.
  • Circumcision of the Heart: This concept, rooted in the Old Testament (see Deuteronomy 30:6), signifies a spiritual cleansing and dedication of one's inner being to God.
  • Spirit vs. Letter: Righteousness comes through the work of the Spirit, enabling genuine transformation, not just by rigidly following the written code of the Law without internal change (compare Romans 7:6).
  • Praise from God: True validation comes from God, who sees the heart, rather than from human recognition or approval based on external appearance or actions.

Linguistic Insights

The contrast between "spirit" (pneuma) and "letter" (gramma) is significant. The "letter" refers to the written Law, which, while holy, can be kept superficially without internal transformation. The "spirit" refers to the power and influence of God's Spirit, which effects the true change of heart that pleases God.

Significance and Application

Romans 2:29 is foundational to understanding the nature of true faith and the new covenant. It teaches that God looks beyond external appearances, religious rituals, or ethnic identity. What truly matters is the condition of the heart—whether it has been transformed by the Spirit. This inward change is where God's law is written, leading to genuine obedience and a life lived for God's approval. For believers today, this means focusing on cultivating a relationship with God from the inside out, allowing the Holy Spirit to conform us to Christ's image, and seeking to please God above all else.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Deuteronomy 30:6 (29 votes)

    And the LORD thy God will circumcise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live.

  • Philippians 3:3 (25 votes)

    For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.

  • Deuteronomy 10:16 (23 votes)

    Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked.

  • Colossians 2:11 (16 votes)

    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:

  • Colossians 2:12 (16 votes)

    Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with [him] through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

  • Jeremiah 4:4 (15 votes)

    Circumcise yourselves to the LORD, and take away the foreskins of your heart, ye men of Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem: lest my fury come forth like fire, and burn that none can quench [it], because of the evil of your doings.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:4 (10 votes)

    But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.