2 Corinthians 3:10 meaning
In discussing the contrast between the Old and New Covenants, the Apostle Paul underscores a significant theological shift. The Old Covenant, characterized as a "ministration of death," had a temporary glory, evident in Moses' shining face after encountering God. However, this glory was ultimately transient and fades away when compared to the New Covenant, which presents a more profound and lasting glory. This new era is defined by the Spirit, whose presence in believers transforms lives and brings righteousness, thus elevating the New Covenant's glory to such a degree that the Old seems devoid of glory in comparison. Such realizations affirm the supremacy of the grace embodied in the gospel over the Law.
In 2 Corinthians 3:10, Paul asserts that the New Covenant’s enduring nature significantly outweighs the old, which was meant to guide but ultimately unable to provide life. For Christians, this means embracing a transformative relationship with God, marked by a clearer understanding of divine grace and the permanence of the gospel's power, which liberates rather than condemns.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- 2 Corinthians 3:7-11 meaning. The ministry of the Spirit, the new covenant, will reveal the true glory of God. We will move from the glory of the Law to the glory of the Spirit.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- 2 Corinthians 2:10-11 meaning. A troublemaking believer, after being rebuked and disciplined, should be restored back to fellowship with the body of believers. Otherwise Satan can take advantage of us, if we do not forgive and love one another.
- 2 Corinthians 10:1-6 meaning. Paul begins to build a defense for his apostleship and ministry. False teachers in Corinth have slandered him and gained some influence over the Corinthian believers. Paul encourages the Corinthians to get rid of the deception and deceivers through setting their minds on truth and obedience to Jesus. He would prefer for them to deal with the false teaching themselves, but if they do not by the time he arrives, Paul will take care of it. He reminds his readers that our enemies aren’t truly other people, but sin. God has given us the ability to obey as Christ obeyed, and thus destroy spiritual fortresses of sin and deceit in our hearts.
- 2 Corinthians 10:7-11 meaning. Paul rebukes those who are only looking at outward appearances. Some of the slander against him has been about his physical presence, rather than the truth of what he teaches. Paul reminds the Corinthians that he was commissioned by God to build them up, not to destroy them. He does not want to scare other believers into submission, but to guide them to obedience to God. He points to his personal integrity, that he lives out what he writes in his letters, even if to some he seems weak and unimpressive in person.