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◄ Romans 2:26►

New International Version
So then, if those who are not circumcised keep the law’s requirements, will they not be regarded as though they were circumcised?

New Living Translation
And if the Gentiles obey God’s law, won’t God declare them to be his own people?

English Standard Version
So, if a man who is uncircumcised keeps the precepts of the law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision?

Berean Standard Bible
If a man who is not circumcised keeps the requirements of the law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision?

Berean Literal Bible
Therefore if the uncircumcision keeps the requirements of the Law, will not his uncircumcision be reckoned for circumcision?

King James Bible
Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?

New King James Version
Therefore, if an uncircumcised man keeps the righteous requirements of the law, will not his uncircumcision be counted as circumcision?

New American Standard Bible
So if the uncircumcised man keeps the requirements of the Law, will his uncircumcision not be regarded as circumcision?

NASB 1995
So if the uncircumcised man keeps the requirements of the Law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision?

NASB 1977
If therefore the uncircumcised man keeps the requirements of the Law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision?

Legacy Standard Bible
So if the uncircumcised man observes the righteous requirements of the Law, will not his uncircumcision be counted as circumcision?

Amplified Bible
So if the uncircumcised man keeps the requirements of the Law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded [by God] as circumcision?

Christian Standard Bible
So if an uncircumcised man keeps the law’s requirements, will not his uncircumcision be counted as circumcision?

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Therefore if an uncircumcised man keeps the law’s requirements, will his uncircumcision not be counted as circumcision?

American Standard Version
If therefore the uncircumcision keep the ordinances of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be reckoned for circumcision?

Contemporary English Version
In fact, if they obey the Law, they are as good as anyone who is circumcised.

English Revised Version
If therefore the uncircumcision keep the ordinances of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be reckoned for circumcision?

GOD'S WORD® Translation
So if a man does what Moses' Teachings demand, won't he be considered circumcised even if he is uncircumcised?

Good News Translation
If the Gentile, who is not circumcised, obeys the commands of the Law, will not God regard him as though he were circumcised?

International Standard Version
So if a man who is uncircumcised keeps the requirements of the Law, his uncircumcision will be regarded as circumcision, won't it?

NET Bible
Therefore if the uncircumcised man obeys the righteous requirements of the law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision?

New Heart English Bible
If therefore the uncircumcised keep the requirements of the law, won't his uncircumcision be counted as circumcision?

Webster's Bible Translation
Therefore, if the uncircumcision keepeth the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?

Weymouth New Testament
In the same way if an uncircumcised man pays attention to the just requirements of the Law, shall not his lack of circumcision be overlooked, and,

Majority Text Translations

Majority Standard Bible
If a man who is not circumcised keeps the requirements of the law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision?

World English Bible
If therefore the uncircumcised keep the ordinances of the law, won’t his uncircumcision be accounted as circumcision?

Literal Translations

Literal Standard Version
If, therefore, the uncircumcision may keep the righteousness of the Law, will not his uncircumcision be reckoned for circumcision?

Berean Literal Bible
Therefore if the uncircumcision keeps the requirements of the Law, will not his uncircumcision be reckoned for circumcision?

Young's Literal Translation
If, therefore the uncircumcision the righteousness of the law may keep, shall not his uncircumcision for circumcision be reckoned?

Smith's Literal Translation
Therefore if uncircumcision watch the justification of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be reckoned for circumcision?

Catholic Translations

Douay-Rheims Bible
If, then, the uncircumcised keep the justices of the law, shall not this uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?

Catholic Public Domain Version
And so, if the uncircumcised keep the justices of the law, shall not this lack of circumcision be counted as circumcision?

New American Bible
Again, if an uncircumcised man keeps the precepts of the law, will he not be considered circumcised?

New Revised Standard Version
So, if those who are uncircumcised keep the requirements of the law, will not their uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision?

Translations from Aramaic

Lamsa Bible
Therefore, if the uncircumcision keep the statutes of the law, behold would not the uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
But if he of the uncircumcision will observe the commandments of The Written Law, behold, is not the uncircumcision accounted for circumcision?

NT Translations

Anderson New Testament
If, then, he who is uncircumcised keeps the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?

Godbey New Testament
Then if uncircumcision may keep the righteousness of the law, will not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?

Haweis New Testament
If then the uncircumcision observe the righteous judgments of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be accounted for circumcision?

Mace New Testament
if therefore an uncircumcised Gentile keep the moral precepts contained in the law, shall not he be reckon'd, as if he were circumcised?

Weymouth New Testament
In the same way if an uncircumcised man pays attention to the just requirements of the Law, shall not his lack of circumcision be overlooked, and,

Worrell New Testament
If, therefore, the uncircumcision keep the ordinances of the law, shall not his uncircumcision he reckoned for circumcision?

Worsley New Testament
Therefore if the uncircumcised keep the righteous precepts of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be accounted to him for circumcision?

Additional Translations ...

Audio Bible

Context

The Jews and the Law
…25Circumcision has value if you observe the law, but if you break the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision.26 If a man who is not circumcised keeps the requirements of the law,will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision?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.…

Berean Standard Bible ·Download

Cross References

Galatians 5:6
For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. What matters is faith expressing itself through love.

Galatians 6:15
For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything. What counts is a new creation.

1 Corinthians 7:19
Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing. Keeping God’s commandments is what counts.

Colossians 2:11
In Him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of your sinful nature, with the circumcision performed by Christ and not by human hands.

Philippians 3:3
For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh—

Acts 10:34-35
Then Peter began to speak: “I now truly understand that God does not show favoritism, / but welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right.

Ephesians 2:11-13
Therefore remember that formerly you who are Gentiles in the flesh and called uncircumcised by the so-called circumcision (that done in the body by human hands)— / remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. / But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.

Matthew 8:11-12
I say to you that many will come from the east and the west to share the banquet with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. / But the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

John 7:22-24
But because Moses gave you circumcision, you circumcise a boy on the Sabbath (not that it is from Moses, but from the patriarchs.) / If a boy can be circumcised on the Sabbath so that the law of Moses will not be broken, why are you angry with Me for making the whole man well on the Sabbath? / Stop judging by outward appearances, and start judging justly.”

1 Peter 2:9-10
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. / Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Isaiah 56:4-5
For this is what the LORD says: “To the eunuchs who keep My Sabbaths, who choose what pleases Me and hold fast to My covenant— / I will give them, in My house and within My walls, a memorial and a name better than that of sons and daughters. I will give them an everlasting name that will not be cut off.

Isaiah 56:6-7
And the foreigners who join themselves to the LORD to minister to Him, to love the name of the LORD, and to be His servants—all who keep the Sabbath without profaning it and who hold fast to My covenant— / I will bring them to My holy mountain and make them joyful in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on My altar, for My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations.”

Jeremiah 4:4
Circumcise yourselves to the LORD, and remove the foreskins of your hearts, O men of Judah and people of Jerusalem. Otherwise, My wrath will break out like fire and burn with no one to extinguish it, because of your evil deeds.”

Deuteronomy 10:16
Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and stiffen your necks no more.

Deuteronomy 30:6
The LORD your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, and you will love Him with all your heart and with all your soul, so that you may live.

Treasury of Scripture

Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?

Isaiah 56:6,7
Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the LORD, to serve him, and to love the name of the LORD, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant; …

Matthew 8:11,12
And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven…

Matthew 15:28
Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, greatis thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.

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Accounted Attention Circumcised Circumcision Counted Credited Keepeth Keeps Law Ordinances Overlooked Pays Precepts Reckoned Regarded Requirements Righteousness Rules Uncircumcised Uncircumcision Way Won't

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Romans 2

1.No excuse for sin.
6.No escape from judgment.
14.Gentiles cannot;
17.nor Jews.

Study Bible

Book ◦ Chapter

If a man who is not circumcised
In the Jewish tradition, circumcision was a physical sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, as seen inGenesis 17:10-14. It was a mark of identity and belonging to the people of Israel. However, Paul addresses Gentiles who were not part of this covenant and did not bear this physical sign. The early church faced significant tension over whether Gentile converts needed to adopt Jewish customs, including circumcision, to be true followers of Christ. This phrase challenges the notion that physical rituals alone determine one's standing before God.

keeps the requirements of the law
The "requirements of the law" refer to the moral and ethical commands found in the Mosaic Law. Paul emphasizes that true obedience to God is not merely about external rituals but about living according to His commandments. This echoes the teachings of Jesus, who prioritized the spirit of the law over its letter (Matthew 5:17-20). The focus is on the inward transformation and genuine righteousness that fulfills the law's intent, as seen in the lives of those who follow Christ.

will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision?
Paul argues that genuine obedience to God's law, even without the physical sign of circumcision, is what truly matters. This radical idea suggests that God values the heart's condition over external markers. It aligns with the prophetic tradition, such as inJeremiah 4:4, which calls for a "circumcision of the heart." This concept is further developed inRomans 2:29, where Paul states that true circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit. This teaching underscores the inclusivity of the Gospel, where faith in Christ transcends cultural and ritualistic boundaries, uniting all believers in spiritual kinship.

Persons / Places / Events

1.Paul the Apostle
The author of the Book of Romans, Paul is addressing the church in Rome, which consists of both Jewish and Gentile believers. His teachings often focus on the relationship between the Law and faith in Christ.

2.Gentiles
Non-Jewish people who were not traditionally part of the covenant community of Israel. In this context, they are those who are not circumcised but may still fulfill the law's requirements.

3.Circumcision
A physical sign of the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants, representing Jewish identity and adherence to the Law.

4.The Law
Refers to the Mosaic Law given to Israel, which includes moral, ceremonial, and civil commandments.

5.Rome
The city where the recipients of this letter reside, a diverse and influential center of the ancient world, with a mix of Jewish and Gentile believers.

Teaching Points

True Obedience is Heart-Centered
The essence of obedience to God is not in external rituals but in a heart that seeks to fulfill His will. This challenges believers to examine their motivations and ensure their actions stem from genuine faith.

Inclusivity of the Gospel
The message of salvation and righteousness through faith is available to all, regardless of cultural or religious background. This encourages believers to embrace diversity within the body of Christ.

The Law's Fulfillment in Christ
While the Law is important, its ultimate fulfillment is found in Christ. Believers are called to live by the Spirit, which empowers them to meet the Law's righteous requirements.

Identity in Christ Over Cultural Markers
Our identity as Christians is rooted in our relationship with Christ, not in cultural or religious symbols. This calls for a focus on spiritual growth and unity in the faith.

Bible Study Questions and Answers

1.What is the meaning of Romans 2:26?

2.How does Romans 2:26 challenge our understanding of true obedience to God?

3.What role does the heart play in fulfilling the law, according to Romans 2:26?

4.How can Gentiles' obedience in Romans 2:26 inspire our daily walk with Christ?

5.How does Romans 2:26 connect with Jesus' teachings on the law in Matthew 5?

6.In what ways can we ensure our actions align with God's law today?

7.How does Romans 2:26 relate to the concept of faith versus works in salvation?

8.Does Romans 2:26 suggest that Gentiles can fulfill the law without circumcision?

9.How does Romans 2:26 challenge the traditional Jewish view of the law?

10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Romans 2?

11.What is the significance of circumcision in the Bible?

12.What does the Bible say about circumcision?

13.How does Galatians 3:28's declaration of unity erase cultural, gender, and social distinctions that still seem to persist in both biblical and modern contexts?

14.What is the Bible's stance on racism?

What Does Romans 2:26 Mean

If a man who is not circumcised

Paul opens with the very people Jewish readers least expect—Gentiles who lack the physical sign given to Abraham (Genesis 17:10-14).

• Uncircumcised here represents everyone outside the covenant nation, “separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel” (Ephesians 2:11-12).

•Acts 15:1-11 shows early believers wrestling with whether these Gentiles must be circumcised to be saved. Paul’s answer in Romans anticipates that debate: outward ritual is not the decisive issue.

keeps the requirements of the law

The phrase points to actually doing what God commands, not merely possessing the Scriptures.

• Paul has just said, “It is not the hearers of the Law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the Law will be justified” (Romans 2:13).

• Long before, God called for a “circumcision of the heart” (Deuteronomy 10:16;Jeremiah 4:4), showing that heartfelt obedience matters more than external marks.

• James echoes the same priority: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22).

will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision?

Now Paul delivers the punchline: when genuine obedience springs from faith, God credits the uncircumcised as covenant participants.

• Abraham himself “received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised” (Romans 4:9-12), proving that right standing precedes the ritual.

•Colossians 2:11-12 speaks of a “circumcision made without hands,” fulfilled in Christ, whileGalatians 5:6 declares, “In Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith working through love.”

• Thus God remains utterly consistent: He honors the reality (faith-born obedience) over the symbol, and He will justly judge every person impartially (Romans 2:11).

summary

Romans 2:26 teaches that God counts inward, faithful obedience as true covenant fidelity, even when the outward Jewish sign is absent. Rituals have value only when they reflect a heart transformed by God. This verse prepares the ground for Paul’s later conclusion that both Jew and Gentile are justified only through faith in Christ, the perfect fulfiller of the Law.

Parallel Commentaries ...

Greek

If
ἐὰν(ean)
Conjunction
Strong's 1437:If. From ei and an; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.

a man who is not circumcised
ἀκροβυστία(akrobystia)
Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular
Strong's 203:From akron and probably a modified form of posthe; the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised state or person.

keeps
φυλάσσῃ(phylassē)
Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 5442:Probably from phule through the idea of isolation; to watch, i.e. Be on guard; by implication, to preserve, obey, avoid.

the
τὰ(ta)
Article - Accusative Neuter Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

requirements
δικαιώματα(dikaiōmata)
Noun - Accusative Neuter Plural
Strong's 1345:From dikaioo; an equitable deed; by implication, a statute or decision.

of the
τοῦ(tou)
Article - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

Law,
νόμου(nomou)
Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 3551:From a primary nemo; law, genitive case, specially, (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively.

{will} not
οὐχ(ouch)
Adverb
Strong's 3756:No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.

his
αὐτοῦ(autou)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846:He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.

uncircumcision
ἀκροβυστία(akrobystia)
Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular
Strong's 203:From akron and probably a modified form of posthe; the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised state or person.

be regarded
λογισθήσεται(logisthēsetai)
Verb - Future Indicative Passive - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 3049:To reckon, count, charge with; reason, decide, conclude; think, suppose.

as
εἰς(eis)
Preposition
Strong's 1519:A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.

circumcision?
περιτομὴν(peritomēn)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4061:Circumcision. From peritemno; circumcision.

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NT Letters: Romans 2:26 If therefore the uncircumcised keep the ordinances (Rom. Ro)