2 Corinthians 3:13

We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to keep the Israelites from gazing at the end of what was fading away.

Study Bible

We are not like Moses
This phrase sets a contrast between the ministry of Paul and the ministry of Moses. Moses, a central figure in the Old Testament, was the mediator of the Old Covenant. The Greek word for "like" (ὥσπερ) indicates a comparison, suggesting that the new covenant ministry is distinct and superior. Paul emphasizes the boldness and openness of the new covenant, which is not characterized by the same limitations as the old.

who would put a veil over his face
The veil Moses wore is a reference to Exodus 34:33-35, where Moses covered his face after speaking with God because the glory was too intense for the Israelites. The Greek word for "veil" (κάλυμμα) signifies a covering or a barrier. This act symbolizes the obscured understanding and the temporary nature of the old covenant. The veil represents the separation between God and humanity, which is removed in Christ.

to keep the Israelites from gazing
The purpose of the veil was to prevent the Israelites from seeing the fading glory. The Greek word for "gazing" (ἀτενίζω) implies a fixed or intense look. This suggests that the Israelites were not ready to fully comprehend or endure the glory of God. In the new covenant, believers are invited to behold God's glory with unveiled faces, reflecting a deeper, more intimate relationship with God.

at the end of what was fading away
The phrase "fading away" (καταργούμενον) indicates something that is being rendered obsolete or coming to an end. The glory on Moses' face was temporary, symbolizing the transient nature of the old covenant. In contrast, the new covenant, established through Christ, is eternal and surpasses the old in glory and permanence. This highlights the transformative power of the gospel, which does not fade but grows ever brighter in the lives of believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
A central figure in the Old Testament, Moses was the leader of the Israelites who received the Law from God on Mount Sinai. He wore a veil to cover his face after speaking with God because his face shone with glory.

2. Israelites
The descendants of Jacob, also known as the children of Israel, who were led by Moses out of Egypt and through the wilderness.

3. Mount Sinai
The mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments from God. It is a significant place of divine revelation and covenant.

4. The Veil
A physical covering Moses used to shield the Israelites from the glory of God reflected on his face, symbolizing the temporary and fading nature of the old covenant.

5. Paul the Apostle
The author of 2 Corinthians, who contrasts the old covenant of the Law with the new covenant of grace through Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

The Temporary Nature of the Old Covenant
The veil symbolizes the temporary and fading glory of the old covenant. As believers, we are called to embrace the new covenant, which is eternal and glorious.

The Unveiled Life in Christ
Unlike Moses, believers in Christ live with unveiled faces, reflecting the glory of the Lord. This signifies openness, transparency, and transformation through the Spirit.

Transformation Through the Spirit
The new covenant brings transformation by the Spirit, changing us into the image of Christ. This ongoing process is a key aspect of Christian life and sanctification.

Boldness in the New Covenant
Paul contrasts the boldness we have in Christ with the veiled approach of the old covenant. This boldness comes from the confidence in the finished work of Christ.

Living as Reflections of God's Glory
As Christians, we are called to reflect God's glory in our daily lives, living as testimonies of His grace and truth to the world around us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the veil in 2 Corinthians 3:13 help us understand the difference between the old and new covenants?

2. In what ways can we live with "unveiled faces" in our daily walk with Christ, and what does that look like practically?

3. How does the transformation by the Spirit, as mentioned in the context of 2 Corinthians 3, manifest in a believer's life?

4. What are some areas in your life where you need to embrace the boldness that comes from the new covenant?

5. How can we, as believers, ensure that we are reflecting God's glory to those around us, and what practical steps can we take to do so?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 34:29-35
This passage describes the event where Moses' face shone after speaking with God and how he used a veil to cover it. It provides the background for Paul's reference in 2 Corinthians 3:13.

Hebrews 8:6-13
Discusses the superiority of the new covenant over the old, emphasizing the permanence and glory of the new covenant in Christ.

Matthew 17:1-8
The Transfiguration of Jesus, where His face shone like the sun, showing the glory of the new covenant and the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets.