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
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; Paul calls Gentile believers to remember their former status. The “Uncircumcision” contrasts with the “Circumcision”—a terminology loaded with identity and religious boundary markers. This verse introduces a broader argument about unity in Christ, despite ethnic and ritual divisions. The Gentiles were outsiders, excluded from full participation in God’s promises, access to the covenant, and the sense of belonging that the Israelite circumcision signified. By reminding them of their past, Paul highlights the radical grace that has redefined their identity in Christ and sets the stage for reconciliation within the church.
This verse foregrounds the unity of Jew and Gentile in Christ, breaking down barriers that defined religious worth. It shows that God’s plan includes dismantling boundary markers and creating one new humanity. Theology moves into practice: how do communities become spaces of inclusion and healing? The call to remember signals that memory shapes identity, shaping how one treats others within the body of Christ.
If you’ve ever felt like an outsider in church or community, this verse invites you to reframe your identity in Christ rather than ethnic or ritual labels. Practice welcome and hospitality across differences: invite someone new to share a meal, listen attentively to a perspective you don’t share, or join a diverse small group. For those who have leadership roles, cultivate inclusive leadership that values varied backgrounds and gifts. Remembering your past can become a bridge for empathy: you know what it feels like to be excluded, so you can advocate for others and build communities where people belong.
Cross-References: Galatians 3:28; Romans 9:24–26; Colossians 3:11; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 3:6