3659 — Circumcision of Timothy
Why did Paul circumcise Timothy, if circumcision is not binding, or essential? J. A. P. He did it simply to relieve the prejudices of the Jews, or some Jewish Christians who still thought that some of the old ceremonies were essential. Acts 16:3 tells us the reason why he did it: "He took and circumcised him because of the Jews that were in those parts: for they all knew that his father was a Greek." Many times, of course, Paul preached to the Jews in their own synagogs, and taught in the temple. He did not want Timothy hindered from his work in teaching; but as none but circumcised persons could take part in these meetings, the rite was performed upon Timothy so that he would not be hindered in his ministry. The rite of itself was nothing, as the apostle teaches in Gal. 5:6 and 6:15 and elsewhere. Circumcision was nothing, and uncircumcision was nothing, so far as salvation was concerned, but it did help Timothy in his work among the Jews and for the Jews, and injured no one. For instance, if a man should labor among a people who wore three-cornered hats, and had prejudice against those who wore round ones, it certainly would be expedient and proper for him to wear a three-cornered hat also. It would mean nothing to him in any way, and it would take away their prejudice until he could teach them better things. There are some things that are utterly non-essential; and to Christians the rite of circumcision was one.