The danger for Paul here is a common problem for all preachers, namely, that the hearers of his message will believe it was for someone else. The Jews could respond to what Paul said in Chapter 1, commending him for having a go at pagan Gentiles, but Paul then turns the tables in this chapter pointing out that merely being a Jew, having the law and being circumcised is not enough. Paul points the finger of guilt at them as well (v1-6 & 17-24).

The Jews should expect no special treatment just because they have had the law (v11). It isn’t hearers but doers of the law that are right in God’s sight (v13). Paul points the finger, as he knows that the evil spoken of in chapter 1 v29-31 is present in all people’s hearts including Jews. What they need is not circumcision, which is the outward sign of being a Jew, but rather circumcision of the heart (v29). This is the work of the Holy Spirit cutting away the sin in their hearts. This work which Jesus called rebirth, is the miracle that every person, both religious and non-religious needs.