Ephesians 2:11
Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;
Ephesians 2:11 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Ephesians serves as a reminder to the Gentile Christians, who were once considered outsiders in the Jewish community. The term "Uncircumcision" was used by the Jewish people to derogatorily refer to anyone who was not circumcised as they believed that circumcision made them the chosen people of God. Paul, the writer of Ephesians, is emphasizing that their status as Gentiles in the past should not define them now that they have accepted Christ. He is urging them to remember their humble beginnings and to embrace their new identity as followers of Christ, regardless of their past differences with the Jewish community. The verse highlights the unity and equality that comes through faith in Christ, transcending cultural and religious boundaries. It challenges the Gentile Christians to move past their previous labels and to focus on their shared faith in Christ, who brings about a new way of understanding and relating to one another.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Ephesians, the apostle Paul is addressing the Gentile believers in Ephesus, reminding them of their former status before coming to faith in Christ. Paul refers to them as "Uncircumcision" to highlight their previous lack of circumcision, which was a physical mark of the covenant relationship between God and the Jewish people. The term "Circumcision" here represents the Jewish people who were physically circumcised. This distinction between circumcised and uncircumcised was not just a physical one but also symbolized the division between the Jews and the Gentiles. Paul is emphasizing that through faith in Christ, the Gentile believers have been brought near to God and are now part of God's covenant people. This theological interpretation of the verse underscores the inclusivity of the gospel message, which breaks down barriers and unites believers from all backgrounds into one body.
Ephesians 2:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
Wherefore remember, that once ye, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called Circumcision, in the flesh, made by hands;
World English Bible
Therefore remember that once you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called “uncircumcision” by that which is called “circumcision”, (in the flesh, made by hands);
Douay-Rheims
For which cause be mindful that you, being heretofore gentiles is the flesh, who are called uncircumcision by that which is called circumcision in the flesh, made by hands:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Wherefore remember that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, and called vncircumcision of them, which are called circumcision in the flesh, made with hands,