What does 2 Corinthians 3:12 mean?

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Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: 2 Corinthians 3:12

Explanation

The verse 2 Corinthians 3:12, “Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech:” is a statement by the Apostle Paul. Paul is emphasizing that because of the hope believers have through Christ, there is confidence and boldness in the way they can speak about their faith and the gospel. The hope that Paul refers to likely stems from the new covenant relationship with God, established through Jesus Christ, which he talks about in the preceding verses. His mention of “plainness of speech” suggests that Paul believes there is no need for rhetoric or sophisticated language to present the truth of the gospel; it should be communicated directly and clearly.

Historical Context

The historical context of 2 Corinthians revolves around Paul’s relationship with the church in Corinth. The epistle was written in approximately 55-56 AD, during Paul’s third missionary journey. During this period, Paul had to confront false teachings and defend his apostolic authority against accusations and challenges by some members of the Corinthian community, as well as “false apostles” who were leading the Corinthians astray. The use of plain speech is in contrast to these opponents, who may have been using eloquent but deceptive language to sway the people.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse emphasizes the sufficiency of the gospel message without the need for ornate language that could distract or distort. Different theological viewpoints might see this emphasis differently:

Reformed Theology: Might emphasize the clarity of scripture (perspicuity) and thus the believer’s ability to understand and communicate the gospel simply and boldly.
Catholic Theology: While acknowledging the importance of clear communication, might also place value on the role of tradition and the Church’s interpretations as the gospel is shared.
Pentecostal Theology: Might focus on the role of the Holy Spirit in giving believers boldness and clarity as they communicate their hope in Christ.

Practical Applications

In practice, this verse can inspire believers to be confident in sharing their faith without fear or the need for embellishment. It can also be a reminder to focus on the core message of the gospel and to be transparent and honest in all forms of communication. Lastly, it can encourage Christians to rely on the hope they have in Christ as the source of their boldness.

Cross-References

Ephesians 6:19: “And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,”
2 Corinthians 4:2: “But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.”
Colossians 4:4: “That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.”

Language Study

The key phrase “great plainness of speech” is translated from the Greek “πολλῇ παρρησίᾳ τοῦ λόγου.” The word “παρρησίᾳ” (parrēsia) signifies openness, confidence, boldness, or frankness; making it clear that the emphasis is on the lack of ambiguity or concealment in the communication. This contrasts with uses of speech that could obscure meaning, perhaps referencing the sophisticated rhetoric common among Greco-Roman orators of the time.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Religious and mythological texts from various cultures often employed allegory, metaphor, or complex poetry, which could make them difficult to understand. In contrast, Paul’s insistence on plain speech is in line with the Judaic tradition of valuing direct teaching, as seen in the clarity of the Mosaic Law and the direct teachings of the prophets. It was also quite counter-cultural in a Greco-Roman context where orators were highly esteemed for their eloquence and complex diction.

Scientific Perspectives

Contemporary scientific understandings of communication emphasize clarity and understandability as critical for effective transmission of information. From a psychological standpoint, plain and bold speech enhances credibility and can reduce the potential for misinterpretation. This aligns with Paul’s exhortation to eschew ambiguity and be straightforward in sharing the gospel message.

commentaries

Various Bible commentators have provided insights on 2 Corinthians 3:12:

Matthew Henry’s Commentary interprets it as Paul contrasting the boldness Christians can have in preaching the gospel with the fear and trembling Moses showed.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary suggests that this confidence and plainness of speech are directly linked to the believer’s unveiled face, unlike Moses who veiled his face.
The Expositor’s Greek Testament comments on the phrase “we use great plainness of speech” as concerning not only the manner but also the content; stating that the openness refers to the unveiled nature of Christ’s gospel.

Commentators consistently agree that the theme revolves around the contrast between the old covenant’s veiled nature and the new covenant’s openness, and the resulting boldness and clarity Christians should have when discussing their faith.