◄ 2 Corinthians 3 ►
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Ministers of a New Covenant 1Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you? 2You yourselves are our letter, inscribed on our hearts, known and read by everyone. 3It is clear that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. 4Such confidence before God is ours through Christ. 5Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim that anything comes from us, but our competence comes from God. 6And He has qualified us as ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. The Glory of the New Covenant (Exodus 34:10–35) 7Now if the ministry of death, which was engraved in letters on stone, came with such glory that the Israelites could not gaze at the face of Moses because of its fleeting glory, 8will not the ministry of the Spirit be even more glorious? 9For if the ministry of condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry of righteousness! 10Indeed, what was once glorious has no glory now in comparison to the glory that surpasses it. 11For if what was fading away came with glory, how much greater is the glory of that which endures! 12Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. 13We 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. 14But their minds were closed. For to this day the same veil remains at the reading of the old covenant. It has not been lifted, because only in Christ can it be removed. 15And even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. 16But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 17Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 2 Corinthians 3 Summary Ministers of a New Covenant Verses 1–3 – Living Letters Read by All Paul reminds the Corinthians that he and his coworkers do not need official “letters of recommendation.” The believers themselves are the proof of Paul’s work—“a letter from Christ…written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God…on tablets of human hearts” (v. 3). Verses 4–6 – Sufficient by the Spirit, Not the Letter Confidence comes from God through Christ. Paul says, “Not that we are competent in ourselves…our competence comes from God” (v. 5). God “has qualified us as ministers of a new covenant…for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life” (v. 6). Verses 7–11 – Fading Glory, Lasting Glory The Law engraved on stone brought a glory that shone on Moses’ face yet faded. The Spirit’s ministry brings a glory that outshines and outlasts the old. The old covenant is called “the ministry of death” and “condemnation,” while the new is “the ministry of righteousness” (vv. 7–9). Verses 12–16 – The Veil Lifted in Christ Because of this hope, Paul speaks with boldness. In contrast to Moses, who veiled his face, a veil now lies over minds when the Law is read. “Only in Christ can it be removed” (v. 14). “Whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away” (v. 16). Verses 17–18 – Freedom and Transformation “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (v. 17). With unveiled faces believers “reflect the glory of the Lord” and are “being transformed into His image with intensifying glory” (v. 18). In 2 Corinthians 3, Paul defends his apostleship and ministry by discussing the two covenants. He contrasts the glory of the Old Covenant, which was written in letters on stone and brought death, with the New Covenant, which is written by the Spirit on human hearts and brings life. The chapter concludes with the transformative power of the Spirit in the lives of believers. Historical Setting and Author’s Heart Paul writes from Macedonia about a year after a painful visit to Corinth (Acts 20:1-2). Traveling teachers had questioned his authority, waving impressive letters. Paul answers by pointing to transformed lives in Corinth. His tone is fatherly yet firm—he longs for the church to recognize authentic, Spirit-led ministry. Letters of Recommendation in the Ancient World • Greco-Roman travelers often carried papyrus letters sealed with wax to open doors in a new city. • Jewish rabbis issued written endorsements for visiting teachers. • Archaeologists have uncovered first-century Roman military and business letters stamped with signet rings—proof of how normal such documents were. Paul flips the custom: living, Spirit-written believers outshine ink and wax. Tablets of Stone vs. Tablets of Flesh Exodus 24:12; 31:18 speak of stone tablets “written by the finger of God.” Jeremiah 31:33 foretold a day when God would write His law “on their hearts.” Ezekiel 36:26 promises “a new heart…and a new spirit.” Paul says that day has arrived. The Spirit’s writing produces love, obedience, and unity—qualities paper documents can’t create. Old Covenant and New Covenant Compared Old Covenant (Law) • Written on stone (v. 7) • Brought knowledge of sin (Romans 3:20) • Glory that faded (Exodus 34:29-35) • Result: condemnation and death (v. 7, 9) New Covenant (Spirit) • Written on hearts (v. 3) • Brings forgiveness (Hebrews 8:10-12) • Glory that remains (v. 11) • Result: righteousness and life (v. 6, 9) Glory That Fades and Glory That Remains Moses’ shining face scared Israel, so he veiled it (Exodus 34:30). The brightness dimmed over time—a picture of the Law’s temporary purpose. The Spirit’s glory never dims. Hebrews 3:1-6 draws a similar contrast between Moses the servant and Christ the Son. The Veil Over the Heart Paul says a veil still covers hearts when the Law is read without faith in Christ. Isaiah 6:9-10 speaks of dull hearts; the pattern continues until one “turns to the Lord.” At that moment, like the curtain in the Temple torn at Christ’s death (Matthew 27:51), the barrier falls away. Freedom in the Spirit “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (v. 17). • Freedom from sin’s penalty (Romans 8:1-2) • Freedom from sin’s power (Galatians 5:1, 16) • Freedom to approach God boldly (Hebrews 4:16) This is not license for selfishness; it is the power to love (Galatians 5:13-14). Transformation into Christ’s Image The Greek word behind “transformed” shows up in Romans 12:2 (“be transformed by the renewing of your mind”) and in the Gospel accounts of Jesus’ transfiguration. Believers move from one degree of glory to another, reflecting Jesus more clearly—like an ever-brightening mirror (1 John 3:2). Archaeological and Cultural Notes • Veils: Roman women used face veils in public religious rites. Moses’ veil would have been unusual, emphasizing the event’s supernatural nature. • Stone inscriptions: First-century Corinth boasted marble monuments with laws chiseled in stone. Paul’s mention of stone tablets would resonate in a city surrounded by literal engraved laws. • Synagogue readings: Discoveries at Delos and Ostia confirm weekly Torah readings, explaining Paul’s reference to Moses being read “to this day” (v. 15). Practical Ministry Applications 1. Credentials matter far less than character. Changed lives are the best endorsement. 2. Confidence grows from God-given sufficiency, not self-promotion. 3. Ministry that relies on rules alone produces guilt; Spirit-led ministry produces life. 4. Speak boldly about Christ, trusting the Spirit to lift veils. 5. Expect ongoing transformation—glory that intensifies, not fades. Connections with Other Scriptures • Jeremiah 31:31-34 – Promise of a new covenant. • Ezekiel 11:19-20; 36:26-27 – New heart and Spirit. • Exodus 34:29-35 – Moses’ veiled face. • Hebrews 8-10 – Superiority of the new covenant. • Romans 8:1-4 – Life in the Spirit replacing condemnation. • Galatians 3:23-25 – Law as guardian until Christ. • John 1:17 – “For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” Key Lessons in a Snapshot • Real ministry writes on hearts. • God alone makes servants competent. • The Law shows sin; the Spirit gives life. • Christ removes the veil. • Freedom and transformation are the Spirit’s daily work. Connections to Additional Scriptures Jeremiah 31:33 But this is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD. I will put My law in their minds and inscribe it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they will be My people. Romans 8:2 For in Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set you free from the law of sin and death. Hebrews 8:6 But now Jesus has received a more excellent ministry, just as the covenant He mediates is better and is founded on better promises. Teaching Points The Living Epistle Paul describes the Corinthians as a letter from Christ (2 Corinthians 3:3), written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God. This highlights the personal and relational nature of the new covenant. The Ministry of the Spirit The chapter contrasts the old covenant, which was engraved in letters on stone and brought death, with the new covenant of the Spirit, which brings life (2 Corinthians 3:6-7). The Glory of the New Covenant Paul explains that the glory of the new covenant surpasses that of the old. The old covenant had glory, but it was fading; the new covenant is permanent and more glorious (2 Corinthians 3:9-11). Transformation through the Spirit The chapter concludes with the transformative work of the Spirit, stating, And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory (2 Corinthians 3:18). Practical Applications Reflect Christ in Your Life Consider how your actions and words serve as a letter to those around you. Are you reflecting the love and truth of Christ? Embrace the Spirit's Work Acknowledge the Holy Spirit's role in transforming your heart and mind. Seek to be open to His guidance and conviction. Live in the Freedom of the New Covenant Understand that you are no longer bound by the law but are free to live in the Spirit. Let this freedom motivate you to pursue holiness and righteousness. Seek God's Glory Make it a daily practice to contemplate the Lord’s glory and allow His presence to transform you into His likeness. People 1. Paul Paul is the author of the letter and an apostle of Jesus Christ. In this chapter, he speaks about his role as a minister of the new covenant, emphasizing the sufficiency that comes from God (2 Corinthians 3:5-6). 2. Moses Moses is referenced as the mediator of the old covenant. Paul contrasts the glory of Moses' ministry, which was temporary and fading, with the surpassing glory of the new covenant in Christ (2 Corinthians 3:7, 13). The Greek term "Μωϋσῆς" (Mōusēs) is used for Moses. 3. The Spirit The Holy Spirit is mentioned as the one who gives life and enables the ministry of the new covenant. Paul highlights that the letter of the law kills, but the Spirit gives life (2 Corinthians 3:6, 8, 17-18). The Greek word "Πνεῦμα" (Pneuma) is used for Spirit. 4. The Lord The Lord, referring to Jesus Christ, is described as the Spirit who brings freedom. Paul explains that where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom, and believers are being transformed into His image (2 Corinthians 3:17-18). The Greek term "Κύριος" (Kyrios) is used for Lord. Places 1. The Heart The chapter speaks of the "tablets of human hearts" (2 Corinthians 3:3), contrasting the old covenant written on stone with the new covenant written on hearts. The Greek word for heart, "καρδία" (kardia), signifies the center of spiritual life. 2. The Letter and the Spirit Paul contrasts the "letter" that kills with the "Spirit" that gives life (2 Corinthians 3:6). This refers to the old covenant law versus the new covenant of the Spirit. The Greek word for spirit, "πνεῦμα" (pneuma), emphasizes the life-giving aspect of the Holy Spirit. 3. The Face of Moses The chapter references the glory on Moses' face when he received the law (2 Corinthians 3:7). This is a metaphorical place of encounter with God, drawing from Exodus 34:29-35. 4. The Veil Paul discusses the veil that remains over the hearts of those who read the old covenant without turning to Christ (2 Corinthians 3:14-15). The veil symbolizes spiritual blindness or separation from understanding the full glory of God. 5. The Freedom of the Spirit The chapter concludes with the idea that "where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom" (2 Corinthians 3:17). This freedom is a spiritual state or place of liberation from the law's condemnation. Events 1. Paul's Defense of His Ministry (2 Corinthians 3:1-3) Paul begins by addressing the need for commendation, stating, "Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you?" . He emphasizes that the Corinthians themselves are his letter, "written on our hearts, known and read by everyone" . This metaphor highlights the transformation in the believers' lives as evidence of his ministry's authenticity. 2. The New Covenant Ministry (2 Corinthians 3:4-6) Paul contrasts the old covenant with the new, stating, "Such confidence we have through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim that anything comes from us, but our competence comes from God" . He describes himself as a minister of a new covenant, "not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life" . The Greek word for "letter" (γράμμα, gramma) refers to the written law, while "Spirit" (πνεῦμα, pneuma) signifies the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit. 3. The Glory of the New Covenant (2 Corinthians 3:7-11) Paul contrasts the glory of the old covenant, which was "engraved in letters on stone" and came with glory, with the surpassing glory of the new covenant. He writes, "If the ministry of death, engraved in letters on stone, came with such glory that the Israelites could not gaze at the face of Moses because of its fleeting glory, will not the ministry of the Spirit be even more glorious?" . The temporary nature of the old covenant's glory is highlighted by the Greek word for "fleeting" (καταργούμενον, katargoumenon), meaning being rendered ineffective or passing away. 4. Boldness in the New Covenant (2 Corinthians 3:12-13) Paul speaks of the boldness that comes from the hope in the new covenant, saying, "Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. 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" . The veil symbolizes the obscured understanding under the old covenant. 5. The Veil Removed in Christ (2 Corinthians 3:14-16) Paul explains that the minds of the Israelites were hardened, and "to this day the same veil remains at the reading of the old covenant. It has not been lifted, because only in Christ can it be removed" . The Greek word for "veil" (κάλυμμα, kalymma) signifies a covering that obscures understanding, which is removed in Christ. 6. Transformation by the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:17-18) Paul concludes with the transformative power of the Spirit, stating, "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit" . The Greek word for "transformed" (μεταμορφούμεθα, metamorphoumetha) indicates a profound change in form or nature, reflecting the ongoing spiritual transformation of believers. Lessons from 2 Corinthians 3 1. The Power of Living Letters In 2 Corinthians 3:2-3, Paul describes believers as "a letter from Christ," written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God. This powerful imagery reminds us that our lives are testimonies of God's work. As living letters, we have the opportunity to reflect Christ's love and truth to those around us. Let your actions and words be a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel, showing others the hope and joy found in a relationship with Jesus. 2. The Sufficiency of God Paul emphasizes in 2 Corinthians 3:5 that our competence comes from God, not from ourselves. "Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim that anything comes from us, but our competence comes from God." This is a humbling reminder that our abilities and successes are gifts from God. Trust in His sufficiency and lean on His strength, knowing that He equips us for every good work He calls us to do. 3. The New Covenant of the Spirit In 2 Corinthians 3:6, Paul contrasts the old covenant of the letter with the new covenant of the Spirit, stating, "For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." The new covenant brings life and freedom through the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live in righteousness. Embrace the Spirit's guidance and allow Him to lead you into a deeper understanding of God's will and purpose for your life. 4. The Glory of the New Covenant Paul speaks of the surpassing glory of the new covenant in 2 Corinthians 3:9-11. While the old covenant had glory, the new covenant's glory is far greater and everlasting. "For if what was fading away came with glory, how much greater is the glory of that which endures!" Rejoice in the eternal glory of the new covenant, which brings us into a closer relationship with God through Jesus Christ. 5. Boldness Through Hope In 2 Corinthians 3:12, Paul declares, "Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold." The hope we have in Christ emboldens us to live and speak with confidence. Let this hope inspire you to share the Gospel fearlessly, knowing that the message of Christ has the power to change lives and bring salvation to all who believe. 6. The Veil Removed Paul explains in 2 Corinthians 3:14-16 that a veil covers the hearts of those who do not know Christ, but when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. "But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away." This transformation allows us to see and understand the truth of the Gospel clearly. Pray for those who have yet to know Christ, that their hearts may be unveiled to the truth and love of God. 7. Freedom in the Spirit 2 Corinthians 3:17 proclaims, "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." The Holy Spirit brings freedom from sin, fear, and condemnation. Embrace this freedom and live a life that reflects the liberty and joy found in Christ. Let the Spirit guide you into a life of purpose and fulfillment. 8. Transformation into Christ's Likeness In 2 Corinthians 3:18, Paul describes the process of being transformed into the image of Christ, "And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory." This transformation is a lifelong journey, empowered by the Holy Spirit. Seek to grow in Christlikeness daily, allowing His character to shine through you. 9. The Ever-Increasing Glory Paul speaks of an "ever-increasing glory" in 2 Corinthians 3:18, highlighting the continuous growth and transformation in the life of a believer. This journey is not static but dynamic, as we are continually being renewed and refined by the Spirit. Embrace this process, knowing that God is at work in you, shaping you for His purposes. 10. The Ministry of the Spirit Finally, 2 Corinthians 3 reminds us of the ministry of the Spirit, who empowers and equips us for service. As we rely on the Spirit, we are enabled to fulfill the Great Commission and share the love of Christ with the world. Be open to the Spirit's leading and be ready to serve wherever He calls, trusting that He will provide all that you need to accomplish His work. Topics 1. The Ministry of the Spirit vs. the Letter (2 Corinthians 3:1-6) Paul contrasts the old covenant, which is based on the letter of the law, with the new covenant, which is of the Spirit. He emphasizes that the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. The Greek word for "letter" (γράμμα, gramma) refers to the written code, while "Spirit" (πνεῦμα, pneuma) signifies the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit. 2. The Glory of the New Covenant (2 Corinthians 3:7-11) Paul discusses the surpassing glory of the new covenant compared to the old. The old covenant, associated with Moses and the law, had glory, but it was fading. The new covenant, through the Spirit, has a permanent and greater glory. The Greek term for "glory" (δόξα, doxa) is central to understanding the divine presence and majesty revealed in the new covenant. 3. The Unveiled Faces of Believers (2 Corinthians 3:12-18) Paul explains that unlike Moses, who veiled his face to hide the fading glory, believers in Christ have unveiled faces, reflecting the Lord's glory. This transformation into the likeness of Christ is by the Spirit. The Greek word for "unveiled" (ἀνακεκαλυμμένος, anakekalymmenos) signifies openness and transparency in the believer's relationship with God. Themes 1. The Ministry of the Spirit Paul contrasts the old covenant, which was based on the letter of the law, with the new covenant, which is based on the Spirit. He states, "He has qualified us as ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life" (2 Corinthians 3:6). The Greek word for "Spirit" (πνεῦμα, pneuma) emphasizes the life-giving and transformative power of the Holy Spirit. 2. The Glory of the New Covenant The new covenant is described as more glorious than the old. Paul writes, "For if the ministry of condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry of righteousness!" (2 Corinthians 3:9). The Greek word for "glory" (δόξα, doxa) signifies the divine radiance and honor associated with the new covenant. 3. The Veil and Spiritual Blindness Paul uses the imagery of a veil to describe the spiritual blindness of those who do not accept the new covenant. He explains, "But their minds were closed. For to this day the same veil remains at the reading of the old covenant. It has not been lifted, because only in Christ can it be removed" (2 Corinthians 3:14). The veil symbolizes the inability to perceive the full truth of the gospel without Christ. 4. Freedom in Christ The theme of freedom is central, as Paul declares, "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom" (2 Corinthians 3:17). The Greek word for "freedom" (ἐλευθερία, eleutheria) indicates liberation from the constraints of the law and sin, achieved through the Spirit. 5. Transformation into Christ’s Likeness Believers are being transformed into the image of Christ, reflecting His glory. Paul writes, "And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit" (2 Corinthians 3:18). The Greek word for "transformed" (μεταμορφόω, metamorphoō) suggests a profound change in form and nature, akin to spiritual metamorphosis. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for the New Covenant Thank God for the new covenant established through Jesus Christ and the life-giving work of the Holy Spirit. Transformation and Reflection Pray for the Holy Spirit to transform you into the image of Christ and help you reflect His glory to others. Openness to the Spirit Ask for a heart that is open and responsive to the leading and conviction of the Holy Spirit. Boldness in Witness Pray for the courage to be a living epistle, boldly sharing the message of Christ through your life and testimony. Answering Tough Questions 1. In 2 Corinthians 3:3, how can an intangible “spiritual” letter be considered more authoritative than the physically inscribed stone tablets mentioned throughout the Old Testament? 2. If Moses’ shining face in 2 Corinthians 3:7–8 symbolized divine glory, how can that be scientifically or historically validated, and does it conflict with natural laws? 3. How does Paul’s assertion in 2 Corinthians 3:10 that the old covenant’s glory “has no glory now” reconcile with the Old Testament’s constant emphasis on the law’s importance and enduring potency? 4. In 2 Corinthians 3:14–15, Paul implies that a “veil” remains over Jewish hearts. Is there any historical or archaeological evidence to support such a metaphor, or is it purely theological? 5. How can Paul’s claim in 2 Corinthians 3:17 that “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” be reconciled with other biblical texts that emphasize strict obedience to divine commands? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How do the Corinthians serve as a letter of recommendation for Paul? 2. What is the significance of a letter written not with ink but with the Spirit? 3. How does Paul contrast the Old Covenant and the New Covenant? 4. What does the statement "the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life" mean to you? 5. How can you apply the idea of the "ministry of the Spirit" in your own life? 6. What can we learn from the imagery of Moses’ fading glory versus the everlasting glory of the New Covenant? 7. What does it mean to be competent as ministers of a New Covenant? 8. How is the New Covenant described as more glorious than the Old Covenant? 9. How is the veil metaphor used in this chapter, and what does it represent? 10. How does turning to the Lord remove the veil? 11. How can we experience the freedom that comes from where the Spirit of the Lord is? 12. What does "beholding the glory of the Lord" involve in our daily lives? 13. How are we being transformed "from glory to glory"? 14. In what practical ways can you pursue this transformation into the image of Christ? 15. How does the knowledge that we are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another encourage you? 16. How can the principles in this chapter affect your relationship with God and with others? 17. How do the concepts in this chapter shape your understanding of the Christian faith and your personal faith journey? 18. How can you share the glory of the New Covenant with others in your life? 19. How does this chapter inform your understanding of the law and grace? 20. How can we apply the lessons from Paul's comparison of the Old and New Covenants to contemporary Christian life and ministry? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions