How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. (Rom 4:10-12)
Circumcision was an outward sign for the Jews. It set them apart from nations who worshiped other gods. It showed that they were God's chosen people. The ceremony in which Jewish boys were circumcised was very important (it still is today). God gave the blessing and the command for this ceremony to Abraham.
Rituals did not earn any rewards for Abraham. His blessings were bestowed long before circumcision was introduced to the Jewish people. Abraham was blessed by God because he found favor with God. His faith is was set him apart, not his circumcision. Genesis tells us that he was 99 years old when this ceremony came into existence.
Ceremonies and rituals remind us of our faith. They do not give us any special "pass" into heaven, they do not give us any special merit before God. They are outward signs of obedience, but they show inner belief and trust. Just as circumcision shows faith and trust in God, baptism shows a desire for change, a desire for forgiveness of sin and a willingness to follow Jesus. The focus of our faith should be on Christ and His saving work, not on our own actions. Taking it one step further, you cannot buy a child's way into heaven through infant baptism. Again, baptism does not guarantee anyone a place in the kingdom. It is merely a ceremony and an action that commits a life to the belief in Christ. Baptism does not wash away sins, God does through the blood of Christ.
We are saved by faith. Period. It is not a mathematical equation (loving God + good works; faith + love + good works; faith + good works). We are saved through Christ - by trusting Him to forgive our sins. When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we give Him our sins, He forgives us and makes us right before God. We cannot earn it, nor can we buy it (through works, ceremonies or rituals). If people chose to continue to worship their "gods" and enjoy their sins - they will not benefit from the gift (whether they have been circumcised or baptized or anything else) - the FREE gift of God's mercy and grace...eternal life!!!
(photo by Celia Darrigo)
