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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Ephesians 2:11 Therefore remember that formerly you who are Gentiles in the flesh and called uncircumcised by the so-called circumcision (that done in the body by human hands)--</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/ephesians/2-11.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/10/49_Eph_02_11.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Ephesians 2:11 - One in Christ" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Therefore remember that formerly you who are Gentiles in the flesh and called uncircumcised by the so-called circumcision (that done in the body by human hands)--" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/ephesians/2-11.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/ephesians/2-11.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/ephesians/">Ephesians</a> > <a href="/ephesians/2.htm">Chapter 2</a> > Verse 11</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad11.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/ephesians/2-10.htm" title="Ephesians 2:10">◄</a> Ephesians 2:11 <a href="/ephesians/2-12.htm" title="Ephesians 2:12">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/ephesians/2.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/ephesians/2.htm">New International Version</a> Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called &#8220uncircumcised&#8221 by those who call themselves &#8220the circumcision&#8221 (which is done in the body by human hands)— <a href="/nlt/ephesians/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> Don’t forget that you Gentiles used to be outsiders. You were called “uncircumcised heathens” by the Jews, who were proud of their circumcision, even though it affected only their bodies and not their hearts. <a href="/esv/ephesians/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called “the uncircumcision” by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands— <a href="/bsb/ephesians/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Therefore remember that formerly you who are Gentiles in the flesh and called uncircumcised by the so-called circumcision (that done in the body by human hands)— <a href="/blb/ephesians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Therefore remember that formerly you--the Gentiles in the flesh, the ones being called the uncircumcision by that being called the circumcision, made by hands in the flesh-- <a href="/kjv/ephesians/2.htm">King James Bible</a> Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; <a href="/nkjv/ephesians/2.htm">New King James Version</a> Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh—who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands— <a href="/nasb_/ephesians/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Therefore remember that previously you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called “Uncircumcision” by the so-called “Circumcision” which is performed in the flesh by human hands— <a href="/nasb/ephesians/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> Therefore remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called &#8220Uncircumcision &#8220 by the so-called &#8220Circumcision,&#8221 which is performed in the flesh by human hands— <a href="/nasb77/ephesians/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Therefore remember, that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called “Uncircumcision” by the so-called “Circumcision,” which is performed in the flesh by human hands— <a href="/lsb/ephesians/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Therefore, remember that formerly you—the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called “Uncircumcision” by the so-called “Circumcision,” which is performed in the flesh by human hands— <a href="/amp/ephesians/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Therefore, remember that at one time you Gentiles by birth, who are called “Uncircumcision” by those who called themselves “Circumcision,” [itself a mere mark] which is made in the flesh by human hands— <a href="/csb/ephesians/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> So, then, remember that at one time you were Gentiles in the flesh—called “the uncircumcised” by those called “the circumcised,” which is done in the flesh by human hands. <a href="/hcsb/ephesians/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> So then, remember that at one time you were Gentiles in the flesh—called &#8220the uncircumcised&#8221 by those called &#8220the circumcised,&#8221 which is done in the flesh by human hands. <a href="/asv/ephesians/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> Wherefore remember, that once ye, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called Circumcision, in the flesh, made by hands; <a href="/cev/ephesians/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Don't forget that you are Gentiles. In fact, you used to be called "uncircumcised" by those who take pride in being circumcised. <a href="/erv/ephesians/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> Wherefore remember, that aforetime ye, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called Circumcision, in the flesh, made by hands; <a href="/gwt/ephesians/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Remember that once you were not Jewish physically. Those who called themselves "the circumcised" because of what they had done to their bodies called you "the uncircumcised." <a href="/gnt/ephesians/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> You Gentiles by birth--called "the uncircumcised" by the Jews, who call themselves the circumcised (which refers to what men do to their bodies)--remember what you were in the past. <a href="/isv/ephesians/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> So then, remember that at one time you gentiles by birth were called "the uncircumcised" by those who called themselves "the circumcised." They underwent physical circumcision done by human hands. <a href="/net/ephesians/2.htm">NET Bible</a> Therefore remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh--who are called "uncircumcision" by the so-called "circumcision" that is performed on the body by human hands-- <a href="/nheb/ephesians/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Therefore remember that once you, the non-Jews in the flesh, who are called "uncircumcision" by that which is called "circumcision," (in the flesh, made by hands); <a href="/wbt/ephesians/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; <a href="/wey/ephesians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Therefore, do not forget that formerly you were Gentiles as to your bodily condition. You were called the Uncircumcision by those who style themselves the Circumcised--their circumcision being one which the knife has effected.<div class="vheading2">Majority Text Translations</div><a href="/msb/ephesians/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Therefore remember that formerly you who are Gentiles in the flesh and called uncircumcised by the so-called circumcision (that done in the body by human hands)— <a href="/web/ephesians/2.htm">World English Bible</a> Therefore remember that once you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called “uncircumcision” by that which is called “circumcision” (in the flesh, made by hands), <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/ephesians/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> For this reason, remember, that you [were] once the nations in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that called Circumcision in the flesh made by hands, <a href="/blb/ephesians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Therefore remember that formerly you--the Gentiles in the flesh, the ones being called the uncircumcision by that being called the circumcision, made by hands in the flesh-- <a href="/ylt/ephesians/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> Wherefore, remember, that ye were once the nations in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that called Circumcision in the flesh made by hands, <a href="/slt/ephesians/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Wherefore remember, that ye then the nations in the flesh, being reckoned Uncircumcision by the Circumcision in the flesh reckoned made by hands;<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/ephesians/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For which cause be mindful that you, being heretofore Gentiles in the flesh, who are called uncircumcision by that which is called circumcision in the flesh, made by hands; <a href="/cpdv/ephesians/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Because of this, be mindful that, in times past, you were Gentiles in the flesh, and that you were called uncircumcised by those who are called circumcised in the flesh, something done by man, <a href="/nabre/ephesians/2.htm">New American Bible</a> Therefore, remember that at one time you, Gentiles in the flesh, called the uncircumcision by those called the circumcision, which is done in the flesh by human hands, <a href="/nrsvce/ephesians/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> So then, remember that at one time you Gentiles by birth, called “the uncircumcision” by those who are called “the circumcision”—a physical circumcision made in the flesh by human hands—<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/ephesians/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Wherefore remember that you were Gentiles in the flesh from the beginning, and you were called Uncircumcision, differing from that which is called Circumcision, which is the work of the hands in the flesh. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/ephesians/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Because of this, be mindful that you Gentiles from the first were of the flesh, and that you were called uncircumcision by that which is called circumcision and is a work of the hands in the flesh.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/ephesians/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For which reason, remember that you were formerly Gentiles, by natural descent, and that you are called Uncircumcision by the Circumcision; so called, from a mark made in the flesh by hands; <a href="/godbey/ephesians/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> Therefore remember, that when you were Gentiles in the flesh, called Uncircumcision by that which is called Circumcision, made in the flesh with hands; <a href="/haweis/ephesians/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Wherefore remember that ye in time past were Gentiles in the flesh, who are called uncircumcision by that called circumcision made by hands in the flesh; <a href="/mace/ephesians/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a> Wherefore remember that you were heretofore Gentiles, being denominated the uncircumcised, by those who are the circumcised by a manual operation; <a href="/wey/ephesians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Therefore, do not forget that formerly you were Gentiles as to your bodily condition. You were called the Uncircumcision by those who style themselves the Circumcised--their circumcision being one which the knife has effected. <a href="/worrell/ephesians/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> Wherefore, remember that ye, the gentiles in flesh, who are called uncircumcision by that which is called circumcision in flesh made by hand, <a href="/worsley/ephesians/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> Wherefore remember that ye were formerly Gentiles in the flesh, called uncircumcision by that which is called circumcision made by hands in the flesh; <a href="/parallel/ephesians/2-11.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AfeSHen3sAQ?start=288" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/ephesians/2.htm">One in Christ</a> 10For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life. 11<a href="/greek/1352.htm" title="1352: Dio (Conj) -- Wherefore, on which account, therefore. From dia and hos; through which thing, i.e. Consequently.">Therefore</a> <a href="/greek/3421.htm" title="3421: mnēmoneuete (V-PMA-2P) -- From a derivative of mneme; to exercise memory, i.e. Recollect; by implication, to punish; also to rehearse.">remember</a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">that</a> <a href="/greek/4218.htm" title="4218: pote (Adv) -- At one time or other, at some time, formerly. From the base of pou and te; indefinite adverb, at some time, ever.">formerly</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymeis (PPro-N2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">you</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ta (Art-NNP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">who are</a> <a href="/greek/1484.htm" title="1484: ethnē (N-NNP) -- Probably from etho; a race, i.e. A tribe; specially, a foreign one.">Gentiles</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/4561.htm" title="4561: sarki (N-DFS) -- Flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred. ">the flesh</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hoi (Art-NMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3004.htm" title="3004: legomenoi (V-PPM/P-NMP) -- (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. ">and called</a> <a href="/greek/203.htm" title="203: akrobystia (N-NFS) -- From akron and probably a modified form of posthe; the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised state or person.">uncircumcised</a> <a href="/greek/5259.htm" title="5259: hypo (Prep) -- A primary preposition; under, i.e. of place, or with verbs; of place (underneath) or where (below) or time (when).">by</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3004.htm" title="3004: legomenēs (V-PPM/P-GFS) -- (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. ">so-called</a> <a href="/greek/4061.htm" title="4061: peritomēs (N-GFS) -- Circumcision. From peritemno; circumcision.">circumcision</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">(that done in</a> <a href="/greek/4561.htm" title="4561: sarki (N-DFS) -- Flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred. ">the body</a> <a href="/greek/5499.htm" title="5499: cheiropoiētou (Adj-GFS) -- Done or made with hands, artificial. From cheir and a derivative of poieo; manufactured, i.e. Of human construction.">by human hands)—</a> 12remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/galatians/5-6.htm">Galatians 5:6</a> For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. What matters is faith expressing itself through love. <a href="/colossians/2-11.htm">Colossians 2:11</a> In Him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of your sinful nature, with the circumcision performed by Christ and not by human hands. <a href="/romans/2-28.htm">Romans 2:28-29</a> A man is not a Jew because he is one outwardly, nor is circumcision only outward and physical. / No, a man is a Jew because he is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man’s praise does not come from men, but from God. <a href="/galatians/6-15.htm">Galatians 6:15</a> For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything. What counts is a new creation. <a href="/philippians/3-3.htm">Philippians 3:3</a> For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— <a href="/romans/9-4.htm">Romans 9:4-5</a> the people of Israel. Theirs is the adoption as sons; theirs the divine glory and the covenants; theirs the giving of the law, the temple worship, and the promises. / Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them proceeds the human descent of Christ, who is God over all, forever worthy of praise! Amen. <a href="/acts/15-1.htm">Acts 15:1</a> Then some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” <a href="/galatians/2-3.htm">Galatians 2:3-4</a> Yet not even Titus, who was with me, was compelled to be circumcised, even though he was a Greek. / This issue arose because some false brothers had come in under false pretenses to spy on our freedom in Christ Jesus, in order to enslave us. <a href="/romans/3-1.htm">Romans 3:1-2</a> What, then, is the advantage of being a Jew? Or what is the value of circumcision? / Much in every way. First of all, they have been entrusted with the very words of God. <a href="/colossians/3-11.htm">Colossians 3:11</a> Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, or free, but Christ is all and is in all. <a href="/genesis/17-10.htm">Genesis 17:10-14</a> This is My covenant with you and your descendants after you, which you are to keep: Every male among you must be circumcised. / You are to circumcise the flesh of your foreskin, and this will be a sign of the covenant between Me and you. / Generation after generation, every male must be circumcised when he is eight days old, including those born in your household and those purchased from a foreigner—even those who are not your offspring. ... <a href="/deuteronomy/10-16.htm">Deuteronomy 10:16</a> Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and stiffen your necks no more. <a href="/jeremiah/4-4.htm">Jeremiah 4:4</a> Circumcise yourselves to the LORD, and remove the foreskins of your hearts, O men of Judah and people of Jerusalem. Otherwise, My wrath will break out like fire and burn with no one to extinguish it, because of your evil deeds.” <a href="/isaiah/52-1.htm">Isaiah 52:1</a> Awake, awake, clothe yourself with strength, O Zion! Put on your garments of splendor, O Jerusalem, holy city! For the uncircumcised and unclean will no longer enter you. <a href="/ezekiel/44-7.htm">Ezekiel 44:7-9</a> In addition to all your other abominations, you brought in foreigners uncircumcised in both heart and flesh to occupy My sanctuary; you defiled My temple when you offered My food—the fat and the blood; you broke My covenant. / And you have not kept charge of My holy things, but have appointed others to keep charge of My sanctuary for you.’ / This is what the Lord GOD says: No foreigner uncircumcised in heart and flesh may enter My sanctuary—not even a foreigner who lives among the Israelites.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Why remember, that you being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;remember.<a href="/ephesians/5-8.htm">Ephesians 5:8</a> For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:<a href="/deuteronomy/5-15.htm">Deuteronomy 5:15</a> And remember that thou wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the LORD thy God brought thee out thence through a mighty hand and by a stretched out arm: therefore the LORD thy God commanded thee to keep the sabbath day.<a href="/deuteronomy/8-2.htm">Deuteronomy 8:2</a> And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no.Gentiles.<a href="/romans/2-29.htm">Romans 2:29</a> But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.<a href="/galatians/2-15.htm">Galatians 2:15</a> We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles,<a href="/galatians/6-12.htm">Galatians 6:12</a> As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ.Uncircumcision.<a href="/1_samuel/17-26.htm">1 Samuel 17:26,36</a> And David spake to the men that stood by him, saying, What shall be done to the man that killeth this Philistine, and taketh away the reproach from Israel? for who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God? … <a href="/jeremiah/9-25.htm">Jeremiah 9:25,26</a> Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will punish all them which are circumcised with the uncircumcised; … <a href="/philippians/3-3.htm">Philippians 3:3</a> For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.made.<a href="/colossians/2-11.htm">Colossians 2:11</a> In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/galatians/4-29.htm">Birth</a> <a href="/galatians/4-14.htm">Bodily</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-3.htm">Body</a> <a href="/galatians/6-13.htm">Circumcised</a> <a href="/galatians/6-15.htm">Circumcision</a> <a href="/galatians/5-13.htm">Condition</a> <a href="/romans/9-11.htm">Effected</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-3.htm">Flesh</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-6.htm">Forget</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-3.htm">Formerly</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-1.htm">Gentiles</a> <a href="/galatians/2-9.htm">Hands</a> <a href="/galatians/3-15.htm">Human</a> <a href="/ezekiel/5-2.htm">Knife</a> <a href="/galatians/3-14.htm">Nations</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-3.htm">Once</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-3.htm">Outside</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-3.htm">Past</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-12.htm">Performed</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-15.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/galatians/5-2.htm">Remember</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-5.htm">So-Called</a> <a href="/acts/24-14.htm">Style</a> <a href="/galatians/6-13.htm">Themselves</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-7.htm">Time</a> <a href="/galatians/2-7.htm">Uncircumcised</a> <a href="/galatians/6-15.htm">Uncircumcision</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-15.htm">Wherefore</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/ephesians/2-12.htm">Birth</a> <a href="/colossians/2-9.htm">Bodily</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-16.htm">Body</a> <a href="/philippians/3-5.htm">Circumcised</a> <a href="/philippians/3-2.htm">Circumcision</a> <a href="/colossians/2-13.htm">Condition</a> <a href="/1_kings/9-1.htm">Effected</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-15.htm">Flesh</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-8.htm">Forget</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-13.htm">Formerly</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-14.htm">Gentiles</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-28.htm">Hands</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-14.htm">Human</a> <a href="/genesis/22-6.htm">Knife</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-1.htm">Nations</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-13.htm">Once</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-19.htm">Outside</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-9.htm">Past</a> <a href="/colossians/2-11.htm">Performed</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-1.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-12.htm">Remember</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-4.htm">So-Called</a> <a href="/job/19-24.htm">Style</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-19.htm">Themselves</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-12.htm">Time</a> <a href="/colossians/3-11.htm">Uncircumcised</a> <a href="/colossians/2-13.htm">Uncircumcision</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-13.htm">Wherefore</a><div class="vheading2">Ephesians 2</div>1. <a href="/ephesians/2-1.htm">By comparing what we were by nature, with what we are by grace,</a> 10. <a href="/ephesians/2-10.htm">he declares that we are made for good works: and being brought near by Christ, </a> 19. <a href="/ephesians/2-19.htm">should not live as Gentiles and foreigners, but as citizens with the saints, and the family of God.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/ephesians/2.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/ephesians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/ephesians/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Therefore remember This phrase serves as a call to reflection and mindfulness. Paul often uses "therefore" to connect his theological teachings with practical implications. Here, he urges the readers to recall their past condition, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's spiritual journey and transformation.that formerly you who are Gentiles in the flesh Paul addresses the Gentile believers, highlighting their previous state before coming to faith in Christ. "Gentiles in the flesh" refers to their physical, ethnic identity, distinct from the Jewish people. This distinction was significant in the first-century context, where Jews and Gentiles were often separated by cultural and religious barriers.and called uncircumcised The term "uncircumcised" was used by Jews to describe Gentiles, often with a sense of disdain or separation. Circumcision was a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants (<a href="/genesis/17-10.htm">Genesis 17:10-14</a>), marking the Jewish people as God's chosen. This label underscores the division and hostility that existed between Jews and Gentiles.by the so-called circumcision Paul refers to the Jewish people, who prided themselves on their physical circumcision as a sign of their covenant relationship with God. However, Paul uses "so-called" to suggest that true circumcision is not merely physical but spiritual, a theme he explores in other letters (<a href="/romans/2-28.htm">Romans 2:28-29</a>).(that done in the body by human hands)— This phrase emphasizes the physical nature of circumcision, contrasting it with the spiritual transformation that comes through faith in Christ. Paul often argues that physical rituals are insufficient for salvation, pointing instead to the need for a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit (<a href="/colossians/2-11.htm">Colossians 2:11</a>). This distinction highlights the new covenant in Christ, which transcends ethnic and ritualistic boundaries.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/g/gentiles.htm">Gentiles</a> Non-Jewish people who were considered outsiders to the covenant promises of God. In the context of Ephesians, they represent those who were once far from God but have been brought near through Christ. 2. <a href="/topical/c/circumcision.htm">Circumcision</a> A physical sign of the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants, marking Jewish identity. It was a significant cultural and religious practice that distinguished Jews from Gentiles. 3. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of the letter to the Ephesians, who was a Jewish Pharisee converted to Christianity. He played a crucial role in spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles. 4. <a href="/topical/e/ephesus.htm">Ephesus</a> A major city in Asia Minor where the Ephesian church was located. It was a diverse and bustling center of trade and culture, with a significant population of both Jews and Gentiles. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_early_church.htm">The Early Church</a> The community of believers in the first century, which included both Jews and Gentiles. The integration of these groups was a significant issue addressed in the New Testament.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/i/identity_in_christ.htm">Identity in Christ</a> Our primary identity is found in Christ, not in cultural or religious labels. Believers are called to remember their past separation from God and rejoice in their new identity as part of God's family. <a href="/topical/u/unity_in_diversity.htm">Unity in Diversity</a> The church is a diverse body made up of people from different backgrounds. This diversity should be celebrated as a testament to the unifying power of the Gospel. <a href="/topical/b/breaking_down_barriers.htm">Breaking Down Barriers</a> Just as Christ broke down the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles, believers are called to break down barriers of prejudice and division in their own communities. <a href="/topical/r/remembering_god's_grace.htm">Remembering God's Grace</a> Reflecting on our past separation from God should lead us to a deeper appreciation of His grace and motivate us to extend that grace to others. <a href="/topical/l/living_out_the_gospel.htm">Living Out the Gospel</a> Our lives should reflect the transformative power of the Gospel, demonstrating love and unity to a divided world.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_ephesians_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Ephesians 2</a> <a href="/q/diligent_or_slothful_habits.htm">What is the significance of circumcision in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/who_are_the_other_sheep.htm">Who are the other sheep not of this fold?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_replacement_theology.htm">What is Replacement Theology?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_the_meaning_of_'one_new_man'.htm">What is the meaning of "One New Man"?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/ephesians/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(11) Gentiles in the flesh--i.e., not having the bodily impress of circumcision, sealing the Jewish covenant.Who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision.--The use of the phrase "called"--with a touch of the contempt implied in our phrase "the so-called"--simply implies that now Circumcision and Uncircumcision were mere names, virtually "nothing." The declaration of the nullity of circumcision as a religious distinction is often repeated, yet takes various forms. Thus, in <a href="/1_corinthians/7-19.htm" title="Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God.">1Corinthians 7:19</a>, it is contrasted with the practical reality of obedience to God's commandments; in <a href="/galatians/5-6.htm" title="For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision avails any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which works by love.">Galatians 5:6</a>, with the inner reality of "faith working by love "; in <a href="/galatians/6-15.htm" title="For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision avails any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.">Galatians 6:15</a>, with the divine gift of the "new creation"; in <a href="/colossians/3-11.htm" title=" Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.">Colossians 3:11</a>, with the spiritual unity of all in Christ. (Comp. also the whole argument of <a href="/romans/2-25.htm" title="For circumcision truly profits, if you keep the law: but if you be a breaker of the law, your circumcision is made uncircumcision.">Romans 2:25</a> to <a href="/romans/4-12.htm" title="And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised.">Romans 4:12</a>.) . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/ephesians/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 11-22. - CONTRAST BETWEEN PAST AND THE PRESENT. Verse 11. - Wherefore remember, that once ye, the Gentiles in the flesh. The practical tenor of the apostle's teaching is indicated by his "wherefores." He is always gathering up his views into some lesson. They are to "remember" the change between the past and the present - what they were by nature, and what they had become by grace. This is most useful to all, even though the contrast between the two be not so vivid as in the case of Paul and the Ephesians. The contrast is indicated in various particulars, both of outward condition and of inward privilege and character. First, the old condition. They were "Gentiles in respect of the flesh" - not bearing on their bodies the mark of the Israel of God, therefore not marked out for blessing, not apparently near it. Who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called Circumcision in the flesh made by hands. Nicknamed, as it were, Uncircumcision by those who in a fleshly or mechanical, but not always in the true spiritual sense (comp. <a href="/romans/2-28.htm">Romans 2:28, 29</a>; <a href="/philippians/3-3.htm">Philippians 3:3</a>; <a href="/colossians/2-11.htm">Colossians 2:11</a>), were called Circumcision; they had a name which denoted the very opposite of that given to God's people - another illustration of their apparent distance from blessing; they revolved round the sun, as it were, not in the nearer orbits of planets warmed, brightened, and beautified by the solar beams, but in the outermost ring of all - like the cold, dark orbit of Uranus or Neptune, which the sunbeams hardly reach to lighten or to warm. <a href="/commentaries/ephesians/2-11.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Therefore Διὸ (Dio) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1352.htm">Strong's 1352: </a> Wherefore, on which account, therefore. From dia and hos; through which thing, i.e. Consequently. remember μνημονεύετε (mnēmoneuete) Verb - Present Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3421.htm">Strong's 3421: </a> From a derivative of mneme; to exercise memory, i.e. Recollect; by implication, to punish; also to rehearse. that ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. formerly ποτὲ (pote) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_4218.htm">Strong's 4218: </a> At one time or other, at some time, formerly. From the base of pou and te; indefinite adverb, at some time, ever. you ὑμεῖς (hymeis) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. who [are] τὰ (ta) Article - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. Gentiles ἔθνη (ethnē) Noun - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1484.htm">Strong's 1484: </a> Probably from etho; a race, i.e. A tribe; specially, a foreign one. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. [the] flesh σαρκί (sarki) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4561.htm">Strong's 4561: </a> Flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred. [and] called λεγόμενοι (legomenoi) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3004.htm">Strong's 3004: </a> (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. uncircumcised ἀκροβυστία (akrobystia) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_203.htm">Strong's 203: </a> From akron and probably a modified form of posthe; the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised state or person. by ὑπὸ (hypo) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_5259.htm">Strong's 5259: </a> A primary preposition; under, i.e. of place, or with verbs; of place (underneath) or where (below) or time (when). the τῆς (tēs) Article - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. so-called λεγομένης (legomenēs) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3004.htm">Strong's 3004: </a> (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. circumcision περιτομῆς (peritomēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4061.htm">Strong's 4061: </a> Circumcision. From peritemno; circumcision. ({that done} in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. [the] body σαρκὶ (sarki) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4561.htm">Strong's 4561: </a> Flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred. by human hands)— χειροποιήτου (cheiropoiētou) Adjective - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5499.htm">Strong's 5499: </a> Done or made with hands, artificial. From cheir and a derivative of poieo; manufactured, i.e. Of human construction. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-11.htm">NT Letters: Ephesians 2:11 Therefore remember that once you the Gentiles (Ephes. Eph. Ep) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/ephesians/2-10.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Ephesians 2:10"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Ephesians 2:10" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/ephesians/2-12.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Ephesians 2:12"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Ephesians 2:12" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>