What does 2 Corinthians 3:7 mean?

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But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: 2 Corinthians 3:7

Explanation

2 Corinthians 3:7 refers to the covenant God made with the Israelites through Moses, often called the Old Covenant, which is associated with the Law given on Mount Sinai and inscribed on stone tablets. The phrase “ministration of death” refers metaphorically to the Law, highlighting its function to convict people of sin rather than to impart life. Despite this, it was glorious, a point which is emphasized by the reaction of the Israelites to Moses’ radiant face after he had been in God’s presence (Exodus 34:29-35). The glory on Moses’ face was so intense that he had to wear a veil to shield the people from it. The apostle Paul uses this event to illustrate that if such a covenant of condemnation had glory, the New Covenant established through the work of the Spirit would surpass it in glory, especially since the glory of the former was transient and would be replaced by the latter.

Historical Context

The Apostle Paul wrote 2 Corinthians to the church at Corinth around A.D. 55-57. Corinth was a major trade city in ancient Greece, multicultural and known for its wealth and immorality. The metaphor here harkens back to Exodus and the giving of the Law to Israel. At Sinai, after receiving the Law, Moses’ face shone with God’s glory. The historical event is thus used by Paul in his letter to convey spiritual truth to the Corinthian church, contrasting the fading glory of the Old Covenant with the lasting glory of the New Covenant under Christ.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse captures the Christian concept of two covenants: the Old Covenant (the Mosaic Law) and the New Covenant (the grace provided through Jesus Christ). The Orthodox and Catholic viewpoints see this verse as validation of the New Covenant’s primacy and the transformative power of grace. Protestant theology, especially within Reformed traditions, may emphasize the Law’s purpose to bring humans to an awareness of their sinfulness and the need for Christ’s redeeming work. Charismatic and Pentecostal interpretations might focus on the role of the Spirit in administering life under the New Covenant.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can remind believers of the temporary nature of earthly glories in comparison to the eternal weight of the glory of God’s presence. It emphasizes the idea that living under God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ surpasses the Old Covenant’s requirements. It may also encourage Christians to seek transformation through the Holy Spirit rather than attempting to achieve righteousness through their own efforts and adherence to the law.

Cross-References

Exodus 34:29-35 – Describing Moses’ face shining after being in God’s presence and having to wear a veil.
Romans 8:2 – “For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.”
Hebrews 8:6-13 – Discusses the superiority of the New Covenant over the Old Covenant.
Galatians 3:10-13 – Talks about the Law bringing a curse and Christ redeeming us from it.

Language Study

In the original Greek text:

“Ministration” comes from the Greek word “diakonia,” which can mean service or administration.
“Death” in this context is derived from “thanatos,” which literally means death but can symbolically represent separation or spiritual death.
“Glorious” and “glory” in the verse come from “doxa,” reflecting splendor, brightness, magnificence, and honor.
“Stedfastly” is from “atenizo,” meaning to gaze intently or fix one’s eyes upon something.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing to other ancient religions, the concept of law codes or decrees from deity were not uncommon in civilizations such as Mesopotamia (Code of Hammurabi) or Egypt. However, the concept of the law directly tied to the visible glory of the divine is distinctive to the Judeo-Christian tradition. In ancient myths, the interaction between gods and humans was often through agents or intermediaries, but the notion of the law being a direct expression of God’s character is particular to Biblical narrative.

Scientific Perspectives

While science primarily focuses on empirical evidence and may not comment on religious beliefs or theological concepts, the description of Moses’ face shining can be compared to the psychological concept of “numinous experiences,” where an individual feels a profound spiritual or divine presence that has a noticeable impact on them. Modern psychology examines these experiences, their effects on individuals, and how they are interpreted across different cultures and religions.

Commentaries

Modern Biblical scholars and commentators might have varying interpretations of this text:

Some suggest that Paul’s point is not merely to disparage the old Law, but to show its role in God’s plan and the surpassing excellence of the new way through Jesus Christ.
Others might focus on the idea that the Law leads to an awareness of sin and death, highlighting man’s inability to fulfill God’s perfect standards, whereas the New Covenant, through the Holy Spirit, offers life and righteousness.
Still others might discuss the historical implications, the significance of the veil Moses wore, and the implications of removing that veil in Christ.