To the Jews, the Gentiles were “uncircumcised dogs.” The tragedy is that the Jews depended on this physical mark instead of the spiritual reality it represented (Deuteronomy 10:16; Jeremiah 9:26; Ezekial 44:9). A true Jew is one who has had an inward spiritual experience in the heart, and not merely an outward physical operation. People today make this same mistake with reference to baptism or the Lord’s Supper, or even church membership.

God judges according to “the secrets of the heart”; He is not impressed with mere outward formalities. An obedient Gentile with no circumcision would be more acceptable than a disobedient Jew with circumcision. In fact, a disobedient Jew turned his circumcision into uncircumcision in God’s sight, for God looks at the heart. The Jews praised each other for their obedience to the Law, but the important thing is the “praise of God” and not the praise of men. When you recall that the name “Jew” comes from “Judah” which means “praise,” this statement takes on new meaning.

The Bible says: “But the Lord said unto Samuel, ‘Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature: because I have refused Him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth: for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).

Also consider: Deuteronomy 10:16; Jeremiah 9:26; Romans 2:16; 2 Corinthians 10:7; Genesis 29:35; 49:8; John 12:43.

Action assignment: Take a few minutes to consider what God’s X-ray vision detects in your heart today. Confess your desire for His praise, rather than the praise of people.