Circumcision of the Heart

Subject: Circumcision of the Heart

Scripture Reading: Jeremiah 4: 1-14

Memory Verse: Joel 2: 13

Objective: To understand that God desires a transformed heart rather than mere outward rituals.

Introduction: When God created man, He gave him clear instructions as to how conduct himself. Man however, was deceived and he relinquished his responsibility. To return to God, man must accept that the price paid on Calvary is enough to repair the relationship with God. This requires a transformation from within rather than mere outward rituals. Let us inform, re-inform, and reinforce the instructions God gave at the beginning so we please Him from the heart.

1.     What reminder did Paul give to the church at Rome? Romans 15: 4

Note: Everything written in the Old Testament was intended to teach and prepare us for the Kingdom of God. Brother Jude also highlights the examples that God sets for us so that we may recognize the need to constantly do what is right.

2.     What did Jeremiah ask God’s people to do, and what did he say would follow if they obeyed? Jeremiah 4: 1 - 2

3.     While the prophet continued to make his plea, what specifically did he ask them to do? Jeremiah 4: 3 - 4

Note: As a sign of their “set-apartness,” all Jewish male babies and man servants underwent physical circumcision. For many, it seemed as a mere ritual. Jeremiah called God’s people to circumcise the heart, emphasizing that God desires an inward transformation, not just external appearances.

4.     How does Paul speak of this kind of circumcision? Colossians 2: 10 - 13

Note: This inner circumcision that Christ brings can only be obtained when we give Him the opportunity to transform our hearts.

5.     How should the circumcision of the heart be done? Joel 2: 12 - 13

Note: The tearing of one’s garment was a customary outward expression of grief (as done by Jacob, Moses, Joshua, Elijah, Job, and David). Joel teaches that God values broken hearts and contrite spirits, which is a true inward change and not just mere outward displays.

6.     What is everyone asked to do, and what hope is promised? Isaiah 55: 6 - 7; and why does the heart need to be circumcised through this method? Jeremiah 17: 9 - 10

7.     How should those who truly need a circumcised heart cry unto God? Psalm 19: 14; Psalm 139: 23 - 24; Psalm 51: 1 - 4, 7 & 9 - 12