Elsewhere in the New Testament, those of the circumcision party can refer to Jews (Romans 4:12), Jewish Christians (Acts 10:45; Acts 11:2; Colossians 4:11), or false teachers (Titus 1:10).1 In the context of Galatians, it is most likely a reference to Jewish Christians who thought that circumcision was necessary also for Gentile Christians. They would no doubt have held to the common Jewish understanding that it was wicked and idolatrous to eat with Gentiles at the same table—consuming the same food.2
12 For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party.