This chapter is another lament for Egypt and the pharoah.
” ‘Son of man, wail over the multitude of Egypt, and send them down… to the world below, to those who have gone down to the pit: “Whom do you surpass in beauty? Go down and be laid to rest with the uncircumcised.” They shall fall amid those who are slain by the sword. Egypt is delivered to the sword… The mighty chiefs shall speak of them, with their helpers, out of the midst of Sheol: ‘They have come down, they lie still, the uncircumcised, slain by the sword.” ‘ ” (v18-21)
God is essentially saying that Egypt is uncircumcised and belongs in Hell with others who are uncircumcised (those who are not devoted followers of God). The Old Testament circumcision was a physical representation of being a child of God.
The New Testament circumcision focuses entirely on a person’s heart, dropping the emphasis on an outward physical expression. Note: Baptism has become the commonplace outward expression of someone’s commitment to following Jesus.
When Paul compares the law of Moses and the new covenant in Romans 2, he reminds us that we need to be circumcised in our hearts (Rm 2:29). This means our hearts must be fully devoted to following Jesus and set apart for the will of God. Let’s invite the Holy Spirit into this process, since this refinement is not a one-time event (such as physical circumcision) – it’s a lifelong journey.
Father God, our Sovereign Lord and Gracious King, we praise You for Your infinite lovingkindness and steadfast presence. Holy Spirit please continue to refine our hearts, setting apart for our Lord’s purpose, equipping us to obey His will. Please work through us as well, as imperfect as we are, influencing others to become fully devoted followers of Jesus. May we be Your hands and feet Jesus, loving the world as You do, for as long as we shall live. Amen.
~ Conqueror in Training