The Ritual of Circumcision and Justification – What is the Purpose of Religious Ritual?

SERIES: ROMANS

MESSAGE: The Ritual of Circumcision and Justification – What is the Purpose of Religious Ritual?

TEXT: Romans 4:9–13

MESSAGE BY: Pastor Tim Lewis

1. It is a symbol of covenant promise. (Vv. 9–10)

   • When did God give the symbol?
     (Gen. 15:2–6, 18; 17:1–7, 10–14)

   • When did God give the promise?

2. It is a demonstration of obedient faith.
   (Gen. 17:23–29)

   • How was Abraham justified?
     (Gen. 15:6; Rom. 4:9)

   • How did he prove his faith?

   • How are you proving your faith?
     (Acts 2:38; 2:41; 3:19–20; 6:7; 22:16)

3. It is a mark of identity.
   (Ex. 12:48; Josh. 5:2–9)

   • It was a distinguishing mark.

   • It was a physical reminder.

4. It does not accomplish or complete your salvation.
   (Rom. 4:10–12; Dt. 10:12–21)

   • You are saved by grace.

   • You are saved through faith.

5. It is an outward rite that symbolizes an inward relationship.
   (Jer. 9:25–26; Dt. 30:6; Rom. 2:28–29; Col. 2:9–11)

6. All believers are to be baptized but not required to be circumcised.
   (Gal. 5:1–6; Rom. 6:1–7)