The circumcision of the Galatians would be seen as an accomplishment by the Judaizers. If they set out from Judea with the plan of making sure that Gentile believers were circumcised, they would be able to return home with news of their success. In this sense, they could boast about the flesh of the Galatians, boast about how many people they were able to convince to get circumcised. To their minds, it might even serve as an accomplishment to bring before God, as if it is what God wanted from them. 1
13 For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh.