G.W. North emphasizes the significance of the cross in relation to circumcision, arguing that the Judaizers' insistence on circumcision undermines the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice. He expresses Paul's vehement rejection of any practice that detracts from the glory of salvation being attributed solely to Christ, warning against the subtlety of adding works to faith. North highlights the danger of religious practices becoming substitutes for true faith, illustrating that true circumcision is a matter of the heart, not merely a physical act. He urges believers to reject any form of legalism that distracts from the grace of God and to embrace the transformative power of the cross in their lives. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the core message of the gospel, free from the trappings of religious tradition.

William MacDonald emphasizes that keeping God's commandments is not synonymous with legalism, which is the misguided attempt to earn God's favor through lawkeeping. He clarifies that while Christians are free from the law, they are not lawless; they are called to live in accordance with Christ's desires. MacDonald points out that the New Testament contains many commandments that serve as instructions for righteousness rather than penalties. He warns against the misuse of the term 'legalism' to dismiss godly behavior and encourages believers to adhere closely to Scripture for their moral guidance.