Circumcision: A Christian Perspective

CCP-EN Booklet

Introduction

Christ was a Jew and was therefore circumcised, as were his initial Apostles and other followers. However non-Jews were also drawn to follow Him, especially by St Paul's mission.

There was then controversy over whether these new followers had to also become Jews and be circumcised, as well as follow all the other Jewish laws. A meeting of the Apostles decided that circumcision (and hence many other Jewish laws) was not necessary to be a Christian.

There has subsequently been discussion as to whether a Christian can, or may, be circumcised (St Paul's writings can be confusing and hard to fully understand in modern times). This booklet aims to explain the historical position and that of the modern Christian Church in this matter.

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