New Testament
2 Corinthians 3:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
In fact, what once seemed glorious has no glory at all in this respect, because of the glory that far surpasses it.
Compare translations
For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.
What 2 Corinthians 3:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights a powerful contrast between two types of glory. The glory of the old covenant, represented by the law, was significant but pales in comparison to the glory of the new covenant brought by Christ. The old had its moments of brilliance, but now, in light of what Jesus has done, it seems almost insignificant. The new covenant offers a deeper, more profound experience of God's presence and love. This transformation invites us to embrace the new life we have through faith. It encourages us to let go of the past and fully appreciate the richness of our relationship with God today. The glory of the new covenant is not just a concept; it’s a living reality that changes how we see ourselves and others. We are called to live in this new light, reflecting the glory of God in our lives and interactions with others, making His love known in a tangible way. This is a call to experience and share the transformative power of grace and truth in our everyday lives.
How to apply 2 Corinthians 3:10 to your life
Reflect on how the new covenant impacts your life. Consider areas where you might be holding onto the past instead of embracing the new life in Christ. Allow God's glory to shine through you, influencing your actions and relationships. Share this transformative experience with others to inspire them as well. Live in the light of this new reality every day, letting it guide your choices and interactions with those around you.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Corinthians Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Corinthians 3:10
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Corinthians 3:10
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Corinthians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 56
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Corinth
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Corinthians 3:10 mean by 'glory that far surpasses'?
In 2 Corinthians 3:10, the 'glory that far surpasses' refers to the transformative power and significance of the new covenant established by Jesus Christ. While the old covenant, represented by the law, had its own glory, it is now seen as lacking in comparison to the grace and truth brought by Christ. This verse emphasizes that the new covenant offers a deeper, more profound experience of God's presence, inviting believers to embrace a richer relationship with Him.
How can I apply the message of 2 Corinthians 3:10 in my life?
To apply the message of 2 Corinthians 3:10, reflect on how the new covenant impacts your daily life. Identify areas where you may be clinging to past experiences or ways of thinking that no longer serve you. Embrace the new life in Christ by allowing His glory to shine through you in your actions and relationships. Share your transformative experiences with others, encouraging them to also live in the light of God's grace and truth.
What is the significance of the old covenant compared to the new covenant?
The significance of the old covenant lies in its role in establishing God's law and guiding His people. However, in 2 Corinthians 3:10, Paul highlights that the old covenant's glory is overshadowed by the new covenant brought by Christ. The new covenant offers forgiveness, grace, and a direct relationship with God, making the old covenant seem less significant. This shift emphasizes the importance of living in the freedom and transformative power of the new covenant.
Why does Paul say the old covenant had no glory in comparison?
Paul states that the old covenant had no glory in comparison to the new covenant because the latter reveals a fuller understanding of God's love and grace through Jesus Christ. The old covenant was a temporary measure that pointed to the need for redemption, while the new covenant fulfills that need, offering believers a direct and personal relationship with God. This profound shift in understanding makes the old covenant's glory seem insignificant in light of the new.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.