This is a question that Paul is just tired of dealing with! People were trying to put things on the believers that weren't necessary and say that they are necessary. The ritual of circumcision was to show that you were a part of the Jewish nation and therefore set apart as one of God's people. With Jesus, all of that changed. It was no longer about becoming a Jew, it was about becoming like Christ. This is what Paul is addressing..for what he hopes will be the last time. It takes a long time for people who have been doing something one way forever to change. It used to be essential to be circumcised or you would be cut off from God! You can see how this would be a difficult thing to convince the Jews of after several thousand years.
All that being said, what matters is whether or not you have been changed by Christ. Have you been transformed into a new creation? What is different about you now? Paul then goes on to talk about the scars he has that proves that he belongs to Jesus. You see, following Jesus is costly. When you are transformed, it causes friction with the world. You'll get some scars. It is easy to talk, but the proof is in how you life your life. The question I have to answer is this: Am I willing to get scarred up for Jesus? My answer is absolutely! Bring it.
Enjoy the Journey
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