What does 2 Corinthians 3:11 mean?

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For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious. 2 Corinthians 3:11

Explanation

2 Corinthians 3:11, as stated in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, reads: “For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.” This verse, written by the Apostle Paul, can be understood in the literal sense as a comparison between two entities, one that is transient and one that is permanent. The “that which is done away” refers to something that was once present but is no longer, while “that which remaineth” denotes something enduring.

In a deeper meaning, this verse is often interpreted as a contrast between the Old Covenant, established through Moses and the Law, and the New Covenant, brought forth through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The old, despite having a glory of its own, was temporary and has been ‘done away’ or superseded by the new, which is permanent and thus holds a far greater glory.

Historical Context

The apostle Paul wrote the Book of 2 Corinthians around 55 to 57 A.D. to the church in Corinth, a city known for its bustling commerce and diverse populace. In 2 Corinthians chapter 3, Paul is defending his ministry and the new covenant against detractors who compared him unfavorably to the more traditional adherents of the Mosaic Law. In doing so, he draws a contrast between the “letter” and the “spirit” of the law, referring to the Mosaic Law as the ministry that brought death and the Spirit as the ministry that brings life.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse reflects the Christian belief in the superiority of the New Covenant as an eternal and more splendid agreement between God and humanity. From a covenant theology perspective, this verse is significant in that it asserts the old covenant was always meant to be temporary and would be replaced by a new, everlasting covenant. In dispensationalism, the old and new covenants represent different dispensations or ways God has dealt with humanity throughout history, with the New Covenant being the current and most perfect dispensation.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse encourages believers to focus on the principles of the New Covenant—faith and grace—as opposed to adhering strictly to the letter of the Old Testament Law. It suggests that Christians should seek the enduring and superior glory found in a relationship with Christ rather than the fading glory of legalistic adherence to rules and rituals.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 31:31 – “Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:”
Hebrews 8:13 – “In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.”
Galatians 3:24 – “Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.”

Language Study

Within the original Greek text, the phrase “is done away” translates to “καταργούμενον (katargoumenon)”, which carries the meaning of something being rendered inoperative or abolished. The term “remaineth” is translated from “μένον (menon)”, meaning to abide or continue. The use of these words emphasizes the permanency of the new versus the temporariness of the old.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of an old covenant being replaced by a new one is unique to Christianity and does not have direct parallels in ancient myths. However, the idea of a new era or new order replacing an old one can be found in various cultural mythologies and symbolizes renewal or rebirth. In the context of religious interpretations, this Christian concept of covenantal transition is distinct from the unchanging covenants seen in other Abrahamic religions, such as Judaism, which maintains the eternal validity of the Mosaic covenant.

Scientific Perspectives

2 Corinthians 3:11 is a theological statement and does not directly intersect with scientific understandings. However, the concept of impermanence and transition from one state to another is a common occurrence in natural processes as observed in science, such as in the principles of thermodynamics where systems transition from order to disorder.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and theologians offer different perspectives on 2 Corinthians 3:11. Matthew Henry’s commentary emphasizes the superiority of the ministry of the Spirit over the ministry of the letter. John Calvin highlights the temporary glory of the Law as being eclipsed by the excelling glory of the Gospel. More contemporary scholarship focuses on the implications of Paul’s ministry and how the new covenant redefines the relationship between God and humanity, echoing the themes of transformation and surpassing glory.