Romans 2:28
Verse
Context
The Jews and the Law
27The one who is physically uncircumcised yet keeps the law will condemn you who, even though you have the written code and circumcision, are a lawbreaker.28A man is not a Jew because he is one outwardly, nor is circumcision only outward and physical.29No, a man is a Jew because he is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man’s praise does not come from men, but from God.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For he is not a Jew - A genuine member of the Church of God, who has only an outward profession. Neither is that circumcision - Circumcision is a rite which represents a spiritual thing, viz. the change and purification of the heart, as may be seen, Jer 4:4, Jer 4:6, Jer 4:10; Jer 9:26; Eze 44:7, Eze 44:9.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
he is not a Jew which is one outwardly, &c.--In other words, the name of "Jew" and the rite of "circumcision" were designed but as outward symbols of a separation from the irreligious and ungodly world unto holy devotedness in heart and life to the God of salvation. Where this is realized, the signs are full of significance; but where it is not, they are worse than useless. Note, (1) It is a sad mark of depravity when all that is designed and fitted to melt only hardens the heart (Rom 2:4, and compare Pe2 3:9; Ecc 8:11). (2) Amidst all the inequalities of religious opportunity measured out to men, and the mysterious bearing of this upon their character and destiny for eternity, the same great principles of judgment, in a form suited to their respective discipline, will be applied to all, and perfect equity will be seen to reign throughout every stage of the divine administration (Rom 2:11-16). (3) "The law written on the heart" (Rom 2:14-15) --or the Ethics of Natural Theology--may be said to be the one deep foundation on which all revealed religion reposes; and see on Rom 1:19-20, where we have what we may call its other foundation--the Physics and Metaphysics of Natural Theology. The testimony of these two passages is to the theologian invaluable, while in the breast of every teachable Christian it wakens such deep echoes as are inexpressibly solemn and precious. (4) High religious professions are a fearful aggravation of the inconsistencies of such as make them (Rom 2:17-24). See Sa2 12:14. (5) As no external privileges, or badge of discipleship, will shield the unholy from the wrath of God, so neither will the want of them shut out from the kingdom of heaven such as have experienced without them that change of heart which the seals of God's covenant were designed to mark. In the sight of the great Searcher of hearts, the Judge of quick and dead, the renovation of the character in heart and life is all in all. In view of this, have not all baptized, sacramented disciples of the Lord Jesus, who "profess that they know God, but in works deny Him," need to tremble--who, under the guise of friends, are "the enemies of the cross of Christ?" Next: Romans Chapter 3
Romans 2:28
The Jews and the Law
27The one who is physically uncircumcised yet keeps the law will condemn you who, even though you have the written code and circumcision, are a lawbreaker.28A man is not a Jew because he is one outwardly, nor is circumcision only outward and physical.29No, a man is a Jew because he is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man’s praise does not come from men, but from God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Presevation of Zion
By David Wilkerson2.8K58:46PSA 51:17ISA 62:1MAT 6:33JHN 8:32ROM 2:28HEB 12:22REV 13:16In this sermon, the speaker addresses the concern and grief of a holy remnant of people in the nation who are troubled by the abominations in the land and in the church. The speaker mentions receiving thousands of letters from people who feel that the nation is headed for a crisis and that the name of the Lord will be vindicated. The speaker then discusses the mark of the beast and reassures the audience that they do not need to fear it or any other prophetic events. The speaker emphasizes that once the audience grasps the truth they are about to hear, they will no longer worry about a depression, the mark of the beast, or the tribulation.
Spiritual Religion
By Ian Murray67444:05NUM 22:18ISA 66:3ISA 66:5MAT 6:33ROM 2:28In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of handling the word of God with sincerity and genuine love for scripture. He warns that simply preaching orthodox teachings does not guarantee salvation. The speaker references Numbers 22:18, where Belac is unable to go beyond the word of the Lord, even if offered all the gold in his house. The sermon also highlights the need for ministers to prioritize their focus on the word of God and prayer, rather than allowing their energies to be scattered in various directions. The speaker mentions the conversion of Thomas Howard to the Roman Catholic Church and discusses his own work on the life of Dr. Lloyd Jones. The sermon concludes with a reference to Isaiah 66:1-2, where God questions the need for a physical house and emphasizes the importance of genuine worship and obedience.
Formalism
By J.C. Ryle0Heart ReligionThe Danger of FormalismROM 2:282TI 3:5J.C. Ryle addresses the pervasive issue of formalism in Christianity, emphasizing that true religion is not merely a matter of outward appearances but must stem from a genuine heart transformation. He warns that many professing Christians may engage in religious practices without true faith or heartfelt devotion, which ultimately leads to spiritual emptiness. Ryle highlights that true Christians are those whose faith is rooted in their hearts, and he cautions that authentic faith often faces ridicule and is not popular among the masses. He encourages believers to examine their hearts and seek a genuine relationship with God, rather than settling for a hollow form of godliness.
Exposition on Psalm 114
By St. Augustine0JOS 3:15PSA 113:1JER 2:27MRK 1:10JHN 4:14JHN 10:16ROM 2:281CO 10:112CO 6:14PHP 3:131JN 2:18St. Augustine preaches on the significance of the events in the Bible, such as the crossing of the River Jordan, as both historical accounts and prophetic symbols for future generations. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing ourselves in the stories, understanding that as Christians, we are spiritually connected to Israel and the house of Jacob through faith and grace. Augustine urges believers to renounce the ways of the world, symbolized by Egypt, and to turn towards God, allowing Him to lead us into His promises with divine help and mercy.
Epistle 353
By George Fox0PSA 51:6ECC 1:14JER 50:5MAT 6:33JHN 6:53JHN 8:23ROM 2:28ROM 14:181CO 4:101CO 4:20GAL 3:8George Fox preaches about the importance of seeking the kingdom of God first and the righteousness of His kingdom, emphasizing the need to be heavenly-minded and to believe in the light, grace, and truth that come from Christ. He urges listeners to crucify their wills and be renewed in their inward man, putting off the old Adam to allow the light of Jesus Christ to shine within. Fox highlights the significance of worshiping God in spirit and truth, circumcising the heart with the spirit, and feeding on the heavenly sacrifice of Christ for true life.
Have You Been Circumcised?
By Anton Bosch0GEN 17:23DEU 10:16JER 6:10ACT 7:51ROM 2:28PHP 3:3COL 2:11Anton Bosch delves into the significance of circumcision in the Old Testament as a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, emphasizing that while it was not a condition for entering the covenant, it was essential for remaining a beneficiary of God's blessings. He draws parallels between physical circumcision in the Old Testament and spiritual circumcision in the New Testament, highlighting the importance of having a circumcised heart and ears to hear and understand God's Word, and to submit humbly to Him. Circumcision symbolizes not only the laying aside of negative traits but also embracing positive attributes like worshiping God in Spirit, rejoicing in Christ, and having no confidence in the flesh.
God Wants to Prosper You
By Anton Bosch0DEU 28:22CH 32:27MAT 6:19ROM 2:281CO 2:12Anton Bosch preaches about the correlation between obedience and prosperity in the Old Testament, emphasizing that God blesses those who are faithful and obedient. He highlights the shift from physical blessings for physical descendants of Abraham to spiritual blessings for spiritual descendants in the Church. Bosch explains that God desires to bless believers with spiritual wealth, knowledge of His Word, victory in spiritual battles, and abundant harvests of souls. He warns against chasing after blessings rather than seeking the Lord first, encouraging a pursuit of God's presence over His gifts.
Trust Not in Man
By George Fox0DEU 10:16JER 4:4ACT 7:51ROM 2:28COL 2:11The preacher delves into the significance of circumcision in the Bible, emphasizing the transition from physical circumcision to spiritual circumcision, symbolizing a removal of sin and a new birth in Christ. The sermon explores the historical, cultural, and theological aspects of circumcision, highlighting its importance in the Old Testament and its spiritual implications in the New Testament. The preacher addresses the misconceptions and legalistic views surrounding circumcision, emphasizing the true meaning of circumcision of the heart and the need for internal transformation rather than external rituals.
Holiness: It's Conditions
By G. Campbell Morgan0LEV 21:5ROM 2:28PHP 3:3COL 2:11The preacher discusses the concept of false circumcision, highlighting how some individuals distort the true meaning of circumcision by focusing on outward rituals rather than the spiritual significance. Paul warns against those who preach a gospel of works, Jewish rituals, or traditions, emphasizing that true circumcision is of the heart, by the Spirit, not by outward practices. Believers are urged to worship God in spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and not place confidence in outward privileges or physical appearances.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For he is not a Jew - A genuine member of the Church of God, who has only an outward profession. Neither is that circumcision - Circumcision is a rite which represents a spiritual thing, viz. the change and purification of the heart, as may be seen, Jer 4:4, Jer 4:6, Jer 4:10; Jer 9:26; Eze 44:7, Eze 44:9.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
he is not a Jew which is one outwardly, &c.--In other words, the name of "Jew" and the rite of "circumcision" were designed but as outward symbols of a separation from the irreligious and ungodly world unto holy devotedness in heart and life to the God of salvation. Where this is realized, the signs are full of significance; but where it is not, they are worse than useless. Note, (1) It is a sad mark of depravity when all that is designed and fitted to melt only hardens the heart (Rom 2:4, and compare Pe2 3:9; Ecc 8:11). (2) Amidst all the inequalities of religious opportunity measured out to men, and the mysterious bearing of this upon their character and destiny for eternity, the same great principles of judgment, in a form suited to their respective discipline, will be applied to all, and perfect equity will be seen to reign throughout every stage of the divine administration (Rom 2:11-16). (3) "The law written on the heart" (Rom 2:14-15) --or the Ethics of Natural Theology--may be said to be the one deep foundation on which all revealed religion reposes; and see on Rom 1:19-20, where we have what we may call its other foundation--the Physics and Metaphysics of Natural Theology. The testimony of these two passages is to the theologian invaluable, while in the breast of every teachable Christian it wakens such deep echoes as are inexpressibly solemn and precious. (4) High religious professions are a fearful aggravation of the inconsistencies of such as make them (Rom 2:17-24). See Sa2 12:14. (5) As no external privileges, or badge of discipleship, will shield the unholy from the wrath of God, so neither will the want of them shut out from the kingdom of heaven such as have experienced without them that change of heart which the seals of God's covenant were designed to mark. In the sight of the great Searcher of hearts, the Judge of quick and dead, the renovation of the character in heart and life is all in all. In view of this, have not all baptized, sacramented disciples of the Lord Jesus, who "profess that they know God, but in works deny Him," need to tremble--who, under the guise of friends, are "the enemies of the cross of Christ?" Next: Romans Chapter 3