Romans 2:26

Therefore, &c. St Paul reasons from his last statement, as from what is self-evident to conscience.

the uncircumcision i.e., probably, "the uncircumcised man;" for see below, "hisuncircumcision." The form of speech is most unusual; such a word as "uncircumcision," when used personally, almost always referring to a class, not an individual. Perhapseven here it is so used, but then immediately (in the words "his circumcision") an individual specimen is considered.

keep the righteousness, &c. See above on Romans 2:25. Here again, practical piety, the will to do God's revealed will, is in view; not sinless obedience. Cornelius (Acts 10:35) is a case exactly in point. He was not sinless; he needed "saving" (a significant word there); but he "feared God, and worked righteousness," and the Divine welcome was his.

the righteousness Better, the ordinances; the special precepts, of whatever kind.