2:28 For he is not a Jew, which is one {u} outwardly; neither [is that] circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:
(u) By the outward ceremony only.
2:28 For he is not a Jew. He is not a Jew, in the religious sense of one of God's chosen people, who is one outwardly alone.
Neither [is that] circumcision, the true circumcision, that which makes one a member of God's covenanted church, which is outward in the flesh.
2:28 For he is not a Jew - In the most important sense, that is, one of God's beloved people. Who is one in outward show only; neither is that the true, acceptable circumcision, which is apparent in the flesh.
2:25-29 No forms, ordinances, or notions can profit, without regenerating grace, which will always lead to seeking an interest in the righteousness of God by faith. For he is no more a Christian now, than he was really a Jew of old, who is only one outwardly: neither is that baptism, which is outward in the flesh: but he is the real Christian, who is inwardly a true believer, with an obedient faith. And the true baptism is that of the heart, by the washing of regeneration and the renewal of the Holy Ghost; bringing a spiritual frame of mind, and a willing following of truth in its holy ways. Let us pray that we may be made real Christians, not outwardly, but inwardly; in the heart and spirit, not in the letter; baptized, not with water only, but with the Holy Ghost; and let our praise be, not of men, but of God.
