2 Corinthians 3

Summary

 

2 Corinthians 3 highlights the transformative nature of the ministry of the Spirit, contrasting it with the ministry of the letter (the law). Paul emphasizes the surpassing glory of the new covenant, where believers experience a direct and transformative relationship with God through the Spirit.

 

1. Letters of Recommendation (2 Corinthians 3:1-3): Paul begins by addressing the Corinthians' question about letters of recommendation. He argues that the Corinthian believers themselves are his letter of recommendation, written by the Spirit of the living God on their hearts, not on tablets of stone.
2. Ministry of the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:4-11): Paul contrasts the old covenant, represented by the ministry of the letter (the law), with the new covenant, represented by the ministry of the Spirit. The ministry of the Spirit brings life and righteousness, surpassing the glory of the old covenant that brought condemnation. Paul emphasizes the surpassing glory of the new covenant.
3. Veiled Hearts and Unveiled Glory (2 Corinthians 3:12-18): Paul uses the image of Moses veiling his face to illustrate the veiled understanding of those who read the Old Testament without Christ. For believers, the veil is removed, and they can see the glory of the Lord revealed in Christ. As they behold this glory, they are transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another by the Spirit.

 

 

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