Acts 16:3
Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek.
Cross-references
Acts 21:21 records false accusations that Paul opposed circumcision; his circumcision of Timothy here provides direct evidence contradicting that charge.
Acts 15:20 records the council's decree that Gentiles need not keep the law — yet Paul circumcises Timothy in Acts 16:3 for practical reasons.
Acts 15:40 shows Paul choosing Silas as a companion — similarly, he later chooses Timothy in Acts 16:3.
1 Corinthians 7:19 states circumcision is irrelevant — yet Paul circumcises Timothy to avoid offense, showing his flexibility.
1 Corinthians 7:19 states circumcision is nothing — Paul's action in Acts 16:3 is a practical accommodation, not a contradiction.
Galatians 2:3 shows Titus not compelled to circumcision, contrasting Timothy's voluntary circumcision — both demonstrate Paul's flexibility in gospel ministry.
Galatians 5:1-3 warns circumcision obligates law-keeping; Paul's circumcision of Timothy was not for law but to avoid offense, showing a different purpose.
Galatians 5:6 says circumcision counts for nothing in Christ, providing the theological basis for Paul's freedom to circumcise Timothy without compromising faith.
Galatians 5:2 warns that accepting circumcision nullifies Christ; Paul's circumcision of Timothy was not for salvation but for Jewish custom, so it's a contrast in motive.
In Galatians 5:11, Paul denies preaching circumcision — contrasting with his action here of circumcising Timothy for practical reasons.
Philippians 2:22 later describes Timothy's proven service alongside Paul — highlighting the trust between them shown here.