Romans 2: 29
"For circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter".

The concept of the new Jew is profound, encompassing physical and spiritual aspects. It signifies a shift away from external rituals and towards internal transformation. In the Old Testament, being Jewish was defined by physical markers such as circumcision and adherence to laws and sacrifices. However, with the arrival of Jesus Christ in the New Testament, there came a new way of understanding what it means to be “Jewish.”

Jesus proclaimed that true worshipers will worship God in spirit and truth (John 4:24). This indicates that it is not enough to follow outward practices; one must also have a transformed heart dedicated to serving God. This idea is in Paul’s letter to the Romans, where he writes about being circumcised of the heart rather than just physically (Romans 2:29). In other words, being part of God’s chosen people no longer depends on following certain customs or traditions but instead on having an inner change brought about through faith in Jesus Christ. Thus, Christians who believe in Jesus as their Savior are considered spiritually circumcised Jews – set apart for God’s purposes through their belief and devotion rather than any external signifiers.

The spiritual Jew in Jesus Christ

The new Jew embodies this spiritual transformation – no longer bound by fleshly markers but united with all believers through faith in Christ. This shift represents a deeper connection with God and his plans for humanity. With this perspective comes freedom from legalism and rules-based religion, as well as an emphasis on a genuine relationship with God based on love, grace, and sacrifice.

While traditional Judaism emphasizes obeying specific laws and adhering to cultural practices, the new Jew focuses on cultivating a personal relationship with God through faith in Christ. This new identity applies to future generations who accept Jesus as their Messiah. Everyone is welcome to join this new covenant with God and become part of the new Jewish identity, spiritually circumcised through the gift of eternal redemption offered by Jesus Christ.

The Exodus of the Jews

During their journey through the wilderness, God reminded the Israelites of His presence and guidance. He spoke to them directly on Mount Sinai, giving them commandments and laws to live by. He also performed miracles by providing manna from heaven and water from a rock to sustain his people.

Despite witnessing these displays of power, the Israelites still struggled with their faith in God. It was evident when Moses ascended Mount Sinai for forty days and nights to receive the Ten Commandments. In his absence, the people grew restless and turned to idolatry, making a golden calf to worship instead of trusting in God.

This act showed their lack of understanding and appreciation for all God had done for them thus far. They had seen His form in the cloud during the day and fire at night and heard His voice speak directly to them, yet they still chose to turn away from Him. It is clear that even after being delivered from slavery in Egypt by His mighty hand, some of the Israelites still struggled with fully committing themselves to Him. It serves as a reminder that our human desires can often lead us astray if we are not vigilant in keeping our faith strong.

The new Jew walks by faith in Jesus Christ

However, despite their shortcomings, God remained faithful to His promise and continued leading His people towards the promised land. He forgave them for disobedience and gave them another chance to follow Him wholeheartedly. The story of how, after experiencing direct communication with God Himself on Mount Sinai, the Israelites still turned away highlights both our weaknesses as humans but also shows us hope – no matter how many times we fail or falter in our faith journey, God is always ready to forgive us if we repent sincerely. God wants us to learn from this lesson and trust him completely because he knows best for us.

The new Jew is the temple of God

The temple built for God in the Old Testament was a physical representation of our spiritual role as temples for the Holy Spirit. Just as the Israelites called on God to save them from slavery, we should call on Jesus to take us home and live holy lives so that He may dwell within us. As we await His second coming, let us remember that we are vessels of His presence on earth.

First born from the dead

The Passover story in Egypt foreshadows Jesus’ sacrifice and redemption. As the firstborn sons of Egyptians died, symbolizing judgment and death, we see how Jesus, who is called the “firstborn from among the dead,” brings life to those who believe in him.

Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross sets us free from spiritual bondage, just as God intervened to release the Israelites from bondage. We no longer have to be slaves to sin and can live a new life in Him.

Unleavened bread of life

During their time in Egypt, God commanded his people to eat unleavened bread for seven days as a reminder of their hasty departure from slavery. Similarly, we must consume the Word of God (the bread of life) daily to remember our salvation and stay close to Him.

Feast of Passover

God instituted the Feast of Passover for the Israelites to commemorate their liberation from oppression. Likewise, we now have a reason to celebrate joyfully our own Passover – not only from physical captivity but from eternal separation from God because of sin – all thanks to Jesus, who became the ultimate sacrifice on the cross.

Jesus chose a Donkey as His ride

Finally, even though donkeys were considered unclean animals under Jewish law and could not be redeemed or sacrificed during Passover celebrations, it is significant that one particular donkey played a vital role in carrying Jesus into Jerusalem before his crucifixion. It further emphasizes how Jesus came not only for Jews but also for Gentiles – any person of background or status – offering redemption and forgiveness through His love and grace.