Book of Galatians - Chapter 6 - Verse 12
As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ.
Meaning
This verse highlights the pressure that some individuals may face to conform to certain religious practices, such as circumcision, in order to avoid persecution. The reference to making a fair show in the flesh emphasizes the external appearance of piety or righteousness that some may seek to uphold. The act of compelling others to be circumcised can be seen as a way for these individuals to avoid facing backlash or criticism for their beliefs in the cross of Christ. By emphasizing the physical act of circumcision over the spiritual message of the cross, these individuals attempt to appease both their own desires for acceptance and the expectations of their religious community.