JMNT(i)
12 As many as continually want (intend; will; purpose)
to make a good impression (a pleasing appearance; a fair face, front or facade)
within flesh [i.e., in a flesh system or religion],
these are habitually urging, or trying to compel or force, you folks (or: making you feel obliged)
to proceed to be circumcised – only so that they may not be continually pursued and persecuted for (or: in; with)
the cross of Christ Jesus (or: by the execution stake that pertains to the Anointed Jesus).
13 For not even the folks being presently (or: currently getting)
circumcised (or, as a middle: habitually circumcising [people]; requiring [the practice of] circumcision; [other MSS: having been circumcised])
are themselves habitually keeping (guarding; protecting; observing; maintaining) [
the]
Law, but even so, they constantly want and intend you folks to proceed to be circumcised, so that they may have cause for boasting in your flesh [
ritual or religion]
.
14 Now may it not happen to me (or: in me)
to take up the practice of boasting, except within the cross (the execution stake)
of our Lord, Jesus Christ, through Whom (or: through which [i.e., the cross])
the organized System (or: the world of culture, economy, government and religion)
has been, and continues being, crucified (executed on the stake)
in me (or: to me; for me; by me; with me),
and I by (to; in; with; for)
the organized System (the world; = their culture, secular society, religion, and government).