Scripture
It doesn't matter whether we have been circumcised or not. What counts is whether we have been transformed into a new creation.

Observation
Here Paul talks about the practical implications of walking in Christ.

If one member of the body stumbles in some way we should gather gently help them back on to the right track while avoiding the same temptation ourselves. At the same time we need to make sure we are working to our best ability.

We harvest what we sow. We should therefore sow righteousness rather than sin.

The people who insist on circumcision are just looking for something to boast about as a form of self-righteousness. On the other hand, Paul wants to boast only about the cross of Christ. It is this that results in a transformation of our nature.

Application
The early church understood that faith was to be lived out in community. We are to encourage each other and to support one another.

In particular the church has the responsibility of lifting up those who fall prey to some sin. Correction should be done gently and humbly, in the awareness that we are all vulnerable to temptation.

How different this is to our modern individualistic culture. So many people want to avoid the kind of transparency that enables this mutual support. When people do share their weakness with others they can be quickly rejected.

We must learn above all things what it means to share one another's burdens. This is the kind of faith which transforms and which convicts the world of its need for the gospel.

Prayer
Lord, make your kingdom real in my congregation. Teach us how to live in gentle and humble community with one another. Amen.