Romans 2:26

26 If therefore the uncircumcision keep the requirements of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be reckoned for circumcision,

Romans 2:26 Meaning and Commentary

Romans 2:26

Therefore if the uncircumcision keep
These words are spoken hypothetically; if any such persons could be found among the Gentiles who keep the whole law of God; and can only be absolutely understood of such, who from a principle of grace act in obedience to the law; as in the hands of Christ, and who look to Christ as the fulfilling end of it, for righteousness; in whom they keep

the righteousness of the law
perfectly:

shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?
by this question it is suggested, that an uncircumcised Gentile, who keeps the law as in the hands of Christ, and under the influences of his Spirit and grace, and keeps it in Christ, is reckoned a circumcised person in a spiritual sense, and must be preferable to a circumcised Jew that breaks it.

Romans 2:26 In-Context

24 For the name of God is blasphemed on your account among the nations, according as it is written.
25 For circumcision indeed profits if thou keep [the] law; but if thou be a law-transgressor, thy circumcision is become uncircumcision.
26 If therefore the uncircumcision keep the requirements of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be reckoned for circumcision,
27 and uncircumcision by nature, fulfilling the law, judge thee, who, with letter and circumcision, [art] a law-transgressor?
28 For he is not a Jew who [is] one outwardly, neither that circumcision which is outward in flesh;

Footnotes 2

  • [a]. Dikaioma, as 'righteous judgment,' ch. 1.32.
  • [b]. Often translated 'imputed' in A.V.
The Darby Translation is in the public domain.