11In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the fleshb was put off when you were circumcised byc Christ, 12having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead. (Colossians 2:11-12)
Thoughts: John Calvin says that baptism is the New Testament equivalent of circumcision. The phrase, "Having been circumcised by Christ having been buried with him in baptism." Baptism and circumcision are both initiation rites. Both have to do with cleansing (putting off- burying). Both are signs of faith- seals and symbols of being a part of the family of God.
The difference is that circumcision is offered to only males whereas baptism is offered to both male and female. In Inter-testimental times male converts to Judaism were circumcised. Female converts were baptized. In Christ there is neither male nor female, slave or free- but we are all one in Christ Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for claiming me and welcoming me to your family of faith, hope, and love.
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