Romans 2:29
Verse
Context
The Jews and the Law
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
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But he is a Jew - A true member of the Church of God. Which is one inwardly - Who has his heart purified, according to what God has uniformly prescribed by his prophets; see above: for circumcision is of the heart, in the spirit, εν πνευματι by the Spirit of God, who is the author of all spiritual affections and holy purposes: or, every thing here is to be understood spiritually, and not literally; for without holiness none can please God, and without holiness none can see him. Whose praise is not of men - It has, with great probability, been conjectured that the apostle may here refer to the signification of the name Jew, or Judah, יהודה Yehudah, Praise, from ידה Yadah, he Praised. Such a one is a true Israelite, who walks in a conformity to the spirit of his religion: his countrymen may praise him because he is a steady professor of the Jewish faith; but God praises him, because he has entered into the spirit and design of the covenant made with Abraham, and has got the end of his faith, the salvation of his soul. Sentiments like these, on the same subject, may be found in the ancient Jewish writers. Rabbi Lipman gives the opinion of their most ancient and pure writers in these words: - "A certain Christian mocked us, saying, 'Women, who cannot be circumcised, cannot be reckoned among Jews.' Such persons are ignorant that faith does not consist in circumcision, but in the heart. He who has not genuine faith is not a partaker of the Jewish circumcision; but he who has genuine faith is a Jew, although not circumcised." Nizzachon, Num. 21, p. 19. It is a curious maxim of the Talmudists, That the Jews sit in the inmost recesses of the heart. Nidda, fol. 20, 2. This is exactly the sentiment of St. Paul: Circumcision is of the heart, in the spirit. In short, common sense, as well as their law and their prophets, taught every considerate man among them that God could be pleased with their rites and external performances no farther than they led to holiness of heart and righteousness of life. 1. What the apostle says, in the preceding chapter, concerning the Gentiles doing by nature the things contained in the law, if properly considered, would lead certain persons from forming erroneous judgments concerning the Divine dispensations. We are not to suppose that God is not to be found where his written word does not appear; nor that the salvation of the nations yet unblessed with the light of the Gospel is impossible. God has never confined himself to any one particular way of communicating his salvation, any more than he has confined his saving grace to one people. His word is an indescribable blessing; but that word becomes effectual to salvation when accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit. It was that Spirit which gave the word originally; and that same Spirit can speak without this word. It is through his influence alone that the Gentiles do the things contained in his own law; and it is not to be wondered at that the work is the same, both in the law and in the heart, when it has proceeded from the same Spirit. 2. God therefore will judge all nations according to the use and abuse they have made of this word, whether it was written in the heart, or written on tables of stone. 3. As he is no respecter of persons, all nations are equally dear to him; and he has granted and will grant to them such discoveries of himself as have been and will be sufficient for their salvation. 4. His Word is an infinite blessing; and he has given it to one people that they may be the means of conveying it to another. Europe, and especially Christian Europe, has got the Bible; and God requires Europe to send the Bible throughout the earth. If this be not done, through their neglect, the Gentile nations will not be destroyed by a merciful God; yet the Europeans will have a most solemn and awful account to render to their Judge, that they have hidden the heavenly light under their own bushel. Britain is shaking herself from the dust, and, by means of the British and Foreign Bible Society, is sending the holy Scriptures to every kingdom, and nation, and people, and tongue. The Gentiles are now learning from the written law more fully and savingly what the Spirit of God had before written on their hearts; and it seems as if the kingdom of God were now about to come with all-conquering power.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:29 The letter of the law refers to the law of God written on tablets of stone (see 2 Cor 3:3), while the Spirit now writes his law on people’s hearts (Jer 31:33-34). Outward conformity is thus contrasted with obedience motivated by a change of heart.
Romans 2:29
The Jews and the Law
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
(Colossians) Part Four - Col 2:6-23
By Douglas Moo6.2K1:09:22ExpositionMAT 6:33ROM 2:291CO 10:2EPH 2:5COL 2:14In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of fullness in the new experience of deliverance from the power of sin. He emphasizes that through our identification with Christ, we are given the ability to live a new life and become a new people. The preacher also highlights the fundamental work of Christ in delivering us from the penalty of sin. He encourages Christians to view the Bible as something to immerse themselves in, allowing its message and values to become a part of their souls. The sermon concludes with a discussion on how God forgives us and wipes out our debts through Christ.
The Truth Will Set You Free
By John Piper1.7K46:47JHN 8:31JHN 8:34JHN 8:36JHN 8:41JHN 8:44ROM 2:29ROM 9:61JN 3:12This sermon delves into the importance of recognizing our need for Jesus as the ultimate liberator, highlighting how various evasive measures like ethnicity, religion, and moral superiority can hinder us from fully surrendering to Christ. It emphasizes that true freedom comes only through Jesus setting us free from sin, self, and Satan, regardless of our background or status. The message urges listeners to abide in God's word, be transformed by the truth, and embrace the liberating power of Christ.
(Romans) Romans 2:1-3:18
By Zac Poonen1.6K48:51MAT 6:33ROM 2:29ROM 3:92CO 7:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God knows everything we have ever done, as it is all recorded in our memory. On the final day, God will play back our memories and judge us according to our deeds. The preacher also highlights the importance of repentance, turning away from sinful ways and believing in Jesus Christ's sacrifice for our sins. The sermon emphasizes that true understanding of God can only come through Jesus Christ, who revealed God's nature through His word, the Bible. The preacher also emphasizes that concealed sin is just as serious as open sin, and that everyone is guilty before God and in need of salvation.
(Romans) God's Judgement on the Jews
By Willie Mullan1.4K1:16:41God's JudgementMAT 7:21ROM 1:1ROM 2:17ROM 2:20ROM 2:23ROM 2:29In this sermon, the speaker recounts his experience at a convention where he passionately preached about sin and the wrath of God. He emphasizes the importance of not just boasting about the gospel, but truly surrendering to it. The speaker references Matthew chapter 7, where Jesus warns that there will come a time when the door to salvation will be shut, and many who claim to have done great works in His name will be rejected. The sermon also touches on the Jewish people's tendency to boast to God without truly following Him. Overall, the speaker urges listeners to examine their hearts and ensure that their faith is genuine and transformative.
Hebrews 3:1-6
By Don McClure1.1K39:02ACT 3:22ROM 2:17ROM 2:29HEB 3:1HEB 4:16HEB 8:2HEB 10:19In this sermon, the preacher discusses the encounter of two disciples with Jesus after his resurrection. Jesus explains to them the significance of his suffering and death, starting from Moses and the Old Testament scriptures. The preacher highlights the frustration of Moses in leading the Israelites out of Egypt but not being able to lead them into the Promised Land due to their lack of faith. The sermon also mentions the provision of manna to the Israelites in the wilderness and the role of Pharaoh's daughter in raising Moses.
Acts 2016
By Carter Conlon96945:23ISA 59:19ACT 20:16ROM 2:29This sermon is a powerful call to urgency and prayer, emphasizing the need for the church to seek a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit to make a difference in the world. The speaker highlights the importance of leaving behind past victories and sailing past hindrances to fully embrace God's calling. The message urges believers to be set apart for God, to let go of what hinders them, and to seek a deeper level of consecration and power in prayer.
(Where Is the Church Going) 4. the Gospel and the Heart of Man
By Miki Hardy6621:14:42GospelMAT 6:33JHN 4:21ACT 2:36ROM 2:29HEB 8:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the Gospel touching the hearts of believers. He recounts the story of Peter preaching to a large crowd, where many were deeply moved and asked what they should do. Peter responds by urging them to repent, be baptized, and serve the Lord with all their hearts. The preacher emphasizes that understanding the Gospel intellectually is not enough; one must be convinced in their heart. He warns against being deceived by philosophical explanations of the Bible and encourages believers to allow God to write His truth on the tables of their hearts.
Persecution, Purity and Power
By Shane Idleman52949:49ROM 2:29ROM 8:372CO 11:13JAS 1:12REV 2:8REV 2:10This sermon delves into the themes of persecution, purity, and power as seen through the lens of the message to the church in Smyrna in Revelation 2. It emphasizes the importance of being open and teachable to hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches, highlighting the need for Christians to be ready to face trials and tribulations. The sermon also touches on the significance of poverty not equating to spiritual poverty, the impact of false believers in the church, and the necessity of overcoming in Christ to avoid the second death and judgment.
Lordship Salvation, Free Grace & the Sovereignty of God
By Rolfe Barnard49324:16SalvationEXO 20:8PSA 50:10ACT 8:9ACT 9:6ACT 10:36ROM 2:291CO 12:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus Christ as Lord. He quotes 1 Corinthians 12:3, which states that no one can declare Jesus as Lord without the Holy Spirit. The preacher challenges the audience to examine their own hearts and question whether they have truly surrendered to Jesus as their Lord. He also highlights the rebellion of those who refuse to acknowledge Jesus as their ruler. The sermon concludes with the preacher urging the audience to consider three truths that are implied if Jesus Christ is truly sovereign and the King of kings.
The Earthly Life of the Lord Jesus
By T. Austin-Sparks0Commitment to God's WillThe Humanity of ChristISA 53:8MAT 16:22MAT 17:24MRK 1:11LUK 24:25JHN 14:12ACT 8:33ROM 2:29T. Austin-Sparks explores the significance of the earthly life of Jesus, emphasizing that His time on earth was not merely to demonstrate His goodness or teachings, but to reveal a different order of humanity. He highlights that Jesus lived a life utterly committed to the will of the Father, showcasing a unique separation from the self-principle that governs ordinary human existence. Sparks argues that Jesus' life serves as a model for what humanity could be when aligned with God's intentions, demonstrating both the reality of His humanity and the necessity of faith. The sermon underscores that Jesus' miracles were not meant to change hearts but to testify to His divine identity, and that true transformation comes from Christ living within us. Ultimately, the message calls believers to embrace a life that reflects the 'otherness' of Christ, moving beyond mere human expectations.
The Circumcision of the Heart
By John Wesley0True HolinessSpiritual TransformationMAT 22:37ROM 2:292CO 5:17GAL 5:6EPH 2:8PHP 3:3HEB 11:1JAS 4:101PE 1:151JN 4:19John Wesley preaches on 'The Circumcision of the Heart,' emphasizing that true circumcision is a spiritual transformation rather than mere outward rituals. He argues that genuine faith, humility, and love are essential for a heart that pleases God, contrasting the spiritual life with worldly values. Wesley warns that many may reject these truths as strange, yet they are fundamental to living a life wholly devoted to God. He encourages believers to seek God's approval rather than the world's, highlighting that true holiness involves a deep awareness of one's sinfulness and reliance on God's grace. Ultimately, Wesley calls for a heart that loves God above all else, aligning every thought and action with His glory.
Entire Sanctification in Type
By Dougan Clark0ISA 61:1MAL 3:3ROM 2:29EPH 5:26HEB 9:14HEB 10:1HEB 12:291PE 1:151PE 2:9Dougan Clark preaches on the Mosaic dispensation, highlighting how the ceremonial laws and rituals in the Old Testament point to the substance and reality found in the gospel of Christ. He emphasizes the importance of holiness, both inward and outward, as seen in the distinctions between clean and unclean in the Mosaic law. Clark delves into the symbolism of circumcision, the consecration of priests, and the sacrifices as types of Christ, underscoring the continuous call to holiness for all believers. He also explores the significance of the anointing oil as a representation of the Holy Spirit's sanctifying work in the lives of Christians.
Titus 1:5, 6
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 6:23JHN 5:41ROM 2:29TIT 1:5TIT 1:9John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of appointing blameless elders in every city, emphasizing the qualities they should possess such as being faithful, not given to wine, and having obedient children. He highlights the need for leaders to be examples of virtue and to hold fast to the faithful word they have been taught, in order to exhort and convince those who oppose the truth. Chrysostom warns against the dangers of seeking glory from men, urging humility and a focus on true, lasting glory that comes from God alone.
Homily 5 on Romans
By St. John Chrysostom0ROM 1:28ROM 2:6ROM 2:10ROM 2:12ROM 2:16ROM 2:21ROM 2:29John Chrysostom preaches about the consequences of rejecting God and living in sin, emphasizing that God gives people over to a reprobate mind when they choose to ignore Him. He highlights the distinction between those who do evil and those who seek to do good, pointing out the intense nature of sin and the importance of repentance. Chrysostom urges believers to examine their hearts and actions, reminding them that God's judgment is just and based on truth, rewarding those who seek glory, honor, and immortality through patient continuance in well-doing. He warns of the impending judgment where God will reveal the secrets of men through Jesus Christ, calling for repentance and a sincere love for Christ above all else.
Exposition on Psalm 76
By St. Augustine0GEN 49:10PSA 75:1JHN 8:58ROM 2:29St. Augustine preaches about the significance of true Israel and Judah, emphasizing that being a Jew is more than just a physical lineage but requires circumcision of the heart. He delves into the history of the tribes of Judah and Levi, highlighting the importance of spiritual lineage over physical descent. St. Augustine connects the lineage of Judah to the coming of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His eternal divinity and superiority over earthly kings. He discusses the transformation from Jews to Christians, emphasizing the importance of true faith and belief in Christ.
The Joy of a Good Conscience
By Thomas a Kempis01SA 16:7PSA 32:1PRO 16:7ISA 48:22ROM 2:291CO 4:42CO 10:18GAL 6:14COL 3:21PE 3:4Thomas a Kempis preaches on the importance of maintaining a good conscience to experience true happiness and peace, contrasting the restfulness of a clear conscience with the restlessness of an evil one. He emphasizes that genuine joy comes from God and is rooted in truth, not in worldly recognition or fleeting glory. Kempis encourages humility, contentment, and a focus on God's approval rather than seeking validation from others.
Our Spirits
By H.J. Vine0MRK 14:38LUK 1:80JHN 3:6JHN 4:23ROM 2:29ROM 8:16GAL 6:1HEB 12:9HEB 13:151JN 5:1H.J. Vine preaches about the glorification of the redeemed bodies by our Lord Jesus Christ in the twinkling of an eye upon His return, emphasizing the care God provides for our spirits, enabling us to respond with praise and thanksgiving. Believers are encouraged to be in subjection to the Father of spirits, resulting in holiness and peaceable fruit of righteousness. The sermon highlights the necessity of a divine operation in man's spirit for true transformation and the importance of being born again to be right with God.
Day 113, Romans 2
By David Servant0ROM 2:4ROM 2:7ROM 2:25ROM 2:29David Servant preaches on Paul's logical argument in Romans, emphasizing that when we condemn others for wrongdoing, we testify that we know what is right and wrong, and desire justice for wrongdoers. However, by doing what we condemn in others, we self-condemn and deserve punishment for our own selfishness. The foundation of the gospel is that all, Jew and Gentile, are self-condemned sinners deserving of God's wrath, with eternal life granted to those who persevere in doing good. Paul challenges the misconception that salvation comes through circumcision or mere association with the Law of Moses, highlighting the need for inward transformation by the Spirit.
A New Creature
By Thomas Watson0EZK 36:26JHN 3:3ROM 2:292CO 5:17EPH 1:20EPH 4:24COL 1:12HEB 11:61PE 1:3Thomas Watson preaches about the essence of true Christianity being a new creature in Christ, emphasizing the necessity of being grafted into Him by faith to experience a supernatural work of God's Spirit that renews and transforms the heart. He explains that the new creature is a work of divine power, greater than creating the world, and a display of God's free grace, infusing new qualities and restoring God's image lost by the fall. Watson highlights the importance of grieving, detesting, opposing, and mortifying old sins, as well as the need for a visible change in thoughts, affections, and actions to evidence the new creature. He urges the congregation to seek the new creature through the preaching of the Word, earnest prayer, and thankfulness for God's abundant mercy.
Spiritual Circumcision
By Daniel Steele0GEN 17:1DEU 6:4ROM 2:29ROM 8:7COL 2:11Daniel Steele preaches about the remarkable transition points in the religious development of Abraham, highlighting his separation from his kindred and country at God's command, his justification by faith, and his entire sanctification as key moments in his spiritual journey. Steele emphasizes the importance of spiritual circumcision or entire sanctification as the gateway to Christian perfection and pure love, casting out all fear. He discusses the unity of Judaism and Christianity in their supreme love for God, pointing out that the Old and New Testaments reveal the same essential principle of loving God above all. Steele delves into the concept of heart circumcision, explaining that it is a necessary condition following the new birth for believers to experience perfect love and holiness.
For if I Yet Pleased Men, I Should Not Be the Servant of Christ.
By Martin Luther0ACT 18:18ACT 21:26ROM 2:29ROM 14:131CO 9:22GAL 2:3GAL 5:1Martin Luther discusses how false apostles cleverly tried to discredit Paul by pointing out apparent contradictions in his actions, such as circumcising Timothy and observing ceremonial laws. Paul's actions were out of consideration for the weak brethren, not to preach the Law or circumcision. The false apostles twisted Paul's intentions to make him appear unfavorable to the Jews, who would have praised him if he had preached legalism. Luther emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and motives behind Paul's actions to avoid misinterpretation and false accusations.
The Circumcision of the Heart.
By Francois Fenelon0MAT 3:3ROM 2:29GAL 5:6PHP 2:3HEB 4:12Francois Fenelon preaches on the importance of true charity, emphasizing that it should be humble, consistent, and selfless, cutting off anything that does not align with pure love for others. He highlights the need for the circumcision of the heart to become children of faith like Abraham, surrendering completely to God's refining process. Fenelon uses the example of John the Baptist, who selflessly pointed others to Christ, showcasing the greatness that comes from forgetting oneself and focusing solely on God.
The Flesh and Blood of Christ in the Mystery, and in the Outward
By Isaac Penington0EZK 36:25JHN 6:35ROM 2:29ROM 8:42CO 5:17GAL 2:20GAL 5:22COL 2:6HEB 8:10Isaac Penington preaches about the essence of true Christianity, emphasizing the importance of being a new creature in Christ, being in the new covenant, experiencing inward circumcision and washing, feeding on the bread of life, living by faith, and walking in the Spirit. He highlights the significance of living the Christian life, rooted in faith and obedience, and the necessity of feeling the seed of the kingdom within to become a true Christian. Penington urges individuals to seek the inward transformation and spiritual renewal that characterize authentic Christianity.
The Sinner's Natural Power and Moral Weakness
By Charles Finney0PSA 139:23ISA 44:20JER 17:9MAT 24:36MRK 9:24JHN 14:1ROM 2:29Blaise Pascal preaches about the proof of the two Testaments being fulfilled in Jesus Christ through examining the prophecies and understanding their dual meanings. He presents various proofs from Scripture, the Rabbis, Kabbala, and mystical interpretations to show the two meanings in the Scriptures. Pascal emphasizes the importance of recognizing the types and symbols in the Old Testament that point to spiritual truths and the Messiah, revealing the deeper spiritual significance behind the rituals and laws. He highlights the necessity of understanding the Scriptures in a way that reconciles contradictory passages and reveals the true spiritual intent behind the prophecies and promises.
- Adam Clarke
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But he is a Jew - A true member of the Church of God. Which is one inwardly - Who has his heart purified, according to what God has uniformly prescribed by his prophets; see above: for circumcision is of the heart, in the spirit, εν πνευματι by the Spirit of God, who is the author of all spiritual affections and holy purposes: or, every thing here is to be understood spiritually, and not literally; for without holiness none can please God, and without holiness none can see him. Whose praise is not of men - It has, with great probability, been conjectured that the apostle may here refer to the signification of the name Jew, or Judah, יהודה Yehudah, Praise, from ידה Yadah, he Praised. Such a one is a true Israelite, who walks in a conformity to the spirit of his religion: his countrymen may praise him because he is a steady professor of the Jewish faith; but God praises him, because he has entered into the spirit and design of the covenant made with Abraham, and has got the end of his faith, the salvation of his soul. Sentiments like these, on the same subject, may be found in the ancient Jewish writers. Rabbi Lipman gives the opinion of their most ancient and pure writers in these words: - "A certain Christian mocked us, saying, 'Women, who cannot be circumcised, cannot be reckoned among Jews.' Such persons are ignorant that faith does not consist in circumcision, but in the heart. He who has not genuine faith is not a partaker of the Jewish circumcision; but he who has genuine faith is a Jew, although not circumcised." Nizzachon, Num. 21, p. 19. It is a curious maxim of the Talmudists, That the Jews sit in the inmost recesses of the heart. Nidda, fol. 20, 2. This is exactly the sentiment of St. Paul: Circumcision is of the heart, in the spirit. In short, common sense, as well as their law and their prophets, taught every considerate man among them that God could be pleased with their rites and external performances no farther than they led to holiness of heart and righteousness of life. 1. What the apostle says, in the preceding chapter, concerning the Gentiles doing by nature the things contained in the law, if properly considered, would lead certain persons from forming erroneous judgments concerning the Divine dispensations. We are not to suppose that God is not to be found where his written word does not appear; nor that the salvation of the nations yet unblessed with the light of the Gospel is impossible. God has never confined himself to any one particular way of communicating his salvation, any more than he has confined his saving grace to one people. His word is an indescribable blessing; but that word becomes effectual to salvation when accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit. It was that Spirit which gave the word originally; and that same Spirit can speak without this word. It is through his influence alone that the Gentiles do the things contained in his own law; and it is not to be wondered at that the work is the same, both in the law and in the heart, when it has proceeded from the same Spirit. 2. God therefore will judge all nations according to the use and abuse they have made of this word, whether it was written in the heart, or written on tables of stone. 3. As he is no respecter of persons, all nations are equally dear to him; and he has granted and will grant to them such discoveries of himself as have been and will be sufficient for their salvation. 4. His Word is an infinite blessing; and he has given it to one people that they may be the means of conveying it to another. Europe, and especially Christian Europe, has got the Bible; and God requires Europe to send the Bible throughout the earth. If this be not done, through their neglect, the Gentile nations will not be destroyed by a merciful God; yet the Europeans will have a most solemn and awful account to render to their Judge, that they have hidden the heavenly light under their own bushel. Britain is shaking herself from the dust, and, by means of the British and Foreign Bible Society, is sending the holy Scriptures to every kingdom, and nation, and people, and tongue. The Gentiles are now learning from the written law more fully and savingly what the Spirit of God had before written on their hearts; and it seems as if the kingdom of God were now about to come with all-conquering power.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:29 The letter of the law refers to the law of God written on tablets of stone (see 2 Cor 3:3), while the Spirit now writes his law on people’s hearts (Jer 31:33-34). Outward conformity is thus contrasted with obedience motivated by a change of heart.