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2 Corinthians 3

18 verses

TL;DR

Paul contrasts the old covenant’s law written on stone with the new covenant written on hearts by the Spirit, emphasizing the greater glory of the Spirit and the transformation of believers.

Summary

In 2 Corinthians 3 Paul begins by questioning the need for self‑praise, then explains that the believers themselves are the living epistle written in their hearts. He contrasts this new covenant, written by the Spirit of God, with the old covenant, which was inscribed in stone. Paul argues that the letter of the law leads to death, whereas the Spirit brings life and righteousness. He references the veil over Moses’ face, symbolizing the spiritual blindness of Israel under the old covenant, and declares that this veil is removed in Christ. Paul concludes that the Spirit’s presence brings liberty and transforms believers from glory to glory, mirroring the image of the Lord.

Outline
  1. Contrast of letter (old covenant) vs spirit (new covenant)
  2. The veil over Moses and the removal of spiritual blindness
  3. Transformation and freedom through the Spirit
Themes
Transformation through the SpiritLaw vs. GraceCovenant renewal
Keywords
letterspiritglorynew testamentold testamentMosesveilChrist
People
MosesChrist
Places
Israel
Things
veilletterspiritnew testamentold testamentglorySpirit of God
Key Verses
  • 2 Cor 3:3: Highlights that the epistle is written by the Spirit, not ink.
  • 2 Cor 3:6: Emphasizes that the Spirit gives life, while the letter kills.
  • 2 Cor 3:14: Illustrates the persistent veil over the heart even after reading the old testament.
Questions
  • What does the ‘veil’ over Moses’ face symbolize for believers today?
  • How does the contrast between the letter and the spirit shape Christian practice?
  • In what ways does the ‘new testament’ transform individual hearts?
  • What does it mean to be changed ‘from glory to glory’?
Sentiment

positive
The chapter emphasizes hope, transformation, and the glory of the Spirit.