Colossians 2:11

Are circumcised. Rather, “were circumcised.” The implication may be that some of the false teachers were claiming that before Christ is approached, circumcision and the details of the ceremonial law must be carried out (cf. Galatians 6:15). At least some of them may have claimed superiority because of their own state of circumcision.

Made without hands. Although the rite of circumcision was performed by hand, its significance and value lay in the fact of its inner meaning. It was designed to be an outward sign of an inward state of faith and grace. Through it Abraham indicated his belief that it was not he, but God, who had life and could give life to others. This peculiar sign was to distinguish all men of ancient Israel. It pointed to Israel’s complete devotion to Jehovah and obedience to all His requirements. An illustration of its true meaning is found in Israel’s history. At the time of the rebellion of Israel at Kadesh the people rejected God. God in turn, for a time, rejected them. Since they had proved unfaithful to His covenant, they were forbidden to receive the sign of that covenant. For 38 years circumcision was prohibited (see PP 406). When at last, believing and obedient, Israel crossed the Jordan, they were willing again to enter fully into covenant relationship with God; then this rite was once more carried out at God’s command (see Joshua 5:2-9). True circumcision is therefore a matter of the heart (see Deuteronomy 10:16). The circumcision that the Colossian Christians had received was not external in the flesh. It was an inward change in heart and life typified by their baptism (see on Colossians 2:12).

Putting off the body. See on Romans 6:6; cf. Ephesians 4:22.

Of the sins. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the omission of this phrase.

Of the flesh. That is, the carnal nature (see Romans 7:14-25; 8:1-13).

Circumcision of Christ. That is, the circumcision that Christ performs, not that performed on Him. True spiritual circumcision, the removal and burying of the evil tendencies of the heart, is brought about through the agency of Jesus Christ Himself. His power alone can remove the old life and create a new man. From the ceremony of circumcision Paul draws a spiritual lesson for the Christian.