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Are Christians the “Spiritual Jews” Paul Talks About in Romans 2?

What does Paul really mean in Romans 2:28–29 when he says, “A Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart”?

For centuries, this passage has been used to argue that Christians are now the “real” or “spiritual Jews.” But is that what Paul was teaching in Romans 2?

In this episode of Journey with the Jewish Paul, we explore the meaning of Romans 2:17–29. You’ll learn why Paul isn’t redefining Jewish identity or replacing it. Instead, Paul is confronting a Gentile who wrongly assumes a Jewish identity through circumcision.

We’ll challenge the common interpretation of Romans 2 that supports replacement theology and show why Paul remained deeply rooted within Judaism.

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The Weird Apostle
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