mutilation.” What these people are about is made clear by the sharp contrast with we in verse 3. The true circumcision “serves” (in the new temple, is implied) by means of the Spirit of God, thus “boasting” in Christ and putting no confidence in the flesh. These final contrasts, between “serving” by the Spirit and trusting in “the flesh,” serve as the springboard for Paul’s personal testimony—exhibit A supporting the validity of verses 2–3. Given the frequency with which Paul speaks to this issue