Colossians 2:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Colossians 2:11
11 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:
Chapter Context
Colossians 2 is a christological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of wisdom, faith, love. Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (c. 60-62 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Syncretistic philosophy threatened to compromise the sufficiency of Christ.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Colossians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Colossians 2:11
11 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:
Analysis
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. Paul addresses Jewish legalism requiring physical circumcision. Believers possess superior circumcision: "made without hands" (acheiropoiētō, ἀχειροποιήτῳ), divine rather than human work. This "circumcision of Christ" means either circumcision provided by Christ or participating in Christ's death (preferable interpretation given v. 12).
"Putting off the body of the sins of the flesh" (apekdysei tou sōmatos tōn hamartiōn tēs sarkos, ἀπεκδύσει τοῦ σώματος τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν τῆς σαρκός) uses clothing imagery: removing like a garment. Physical circumcision removed flesh symbolically; spiritual circumcision removes sin's power actually. This occurred at conversion through union with Christ's death, accomplishing what Old Testament ritual prefigured.
Historical Context
Circumcision debate nearly split early Christianity (Acts 15; Galatians). Judaizers insisted Gentile converts needed circumcision for full covenant membership. Paul argues that Christ fulfilled circumcision's meaning, making physical ritual obsolete. The real issue wasn't foreskin but sin nature; Christ's death dealt decisively with the substance (sin) that circumcision symbolized, rendering the shadow unnecessary.
Reflection
- What religious rituals do you emphasize that may have become form without substance?
- How does your baptism (v. 12 next) serve as reminder of dying and rising with Christ?
- Where might you rely on external religious performance instead of internal transformation through Christ?
Word Studies
- Sin: ἁμαρτία (Hamartia) G266 - Sin, missing the mark
Cross-References
- References Christ: 2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 2:20, 5:24, Philippians 3:3
- Sin: Romans 6:6
- Creation: Hebrews 9:24
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 10:16, 30:6, Romans 2:29, Ephesians 4:22