New Testament
2 Corinthians 3:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, Paul reflects on the old covenant, which was marked by laws that brought condemnation.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 56
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Corinth
Now, if the ministry that brought death, with its laws carved into stone, was glorious, so that the people of Israel couldn't look steadily at Moses' face because of its glory, which was to be done away with:
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:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Paul reflects on the old covenant, which was marked by laws that brought condemnation. He points out that even though this ministry was glorious, it ultimately led to death. The people of Israel were so overwhelmed by the glory radiating from Moses' face that they couldn't look at him directly. This glory, however, was temporary and would fade away. Paul contrasts this with the new covenant, which brings life and hope. The old covenant served its purpose but was never meant to last forever. The glory of the new covenant is far greater because it offers a lasting relationship with God. This shift from death to life is central to understanding the transformative power of faith in Christ. The old laws were written on stone, but the new covenant is written on our hearts, making it personal and accessible to everyone who believes. This passage invites us to embrace the new life that comes through faith, moving beyond the limitations of the past and into a vibrant relationship with God.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Corinthians 3:7 to your life
Reflect on how the old ways of living may still influence you. Consider what it means to embrace the new life offered through faith in Christ. Allow this new relationship to transform your heart and guide your actions daily. Seek to live in the freedom and hope that comes from this connection with God. Share this message of hope with others who may feel burdened by the past.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Corinthians Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Corinthians 3:7 mean?
2 Corinthians 3:7 discusses the old covenant, which was characterized by laws that brought condemnation and ultimately death. Paul highlights that even though this ministry was glorious, it was temporary and would fade away, contrasting it with the new covenant that brings life and hope.
What is the significance of the glory in 2 Corinthians 3:7?
The glory mentioned in 2 Corinthians 3:7 refers to the radiance of Moses' face after receiving the law, which was so intense that the Israelites could not look at him. This glory symbolizes the temporary nature of the old covenant, which was meant to lead to something greater.
What does 'ministration of death' mean in 2 Corinthians 3:7?
The 'ministration of death' in 2 Corinthians 3:7 refers to the old covenant's laws that brought condemnation rather than life. Paul uses this phrase to emphasize that while the old covenant had glory, it ultimately led to spiritual death.
How does 2 Corinthians 3:7 relate to the new covenant?
2 Corinthians 3:7 contrasts the old covenant with the new covenant, which offers a lasting relationship with God and brings life. While the old covenant was glorious but temporary, the new covenant is described as having a far greater glory and transformative power.

The Book of 2 Corinthians
2 Corinthians 1: God of All Comfort and Paul's Sincerity
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, greet the church of God at Corinth and all the saints in Achaia. Paul blesses God as the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort, saying He comforts them in their troubles so they can comfort others. He describes suffering in Asia where he feels pressed beyond strength and expects death, but he says this teaches him to rely on God who raises the dead. He explains that God delivers them and continues to deliver them, and he asks the believers to pray for them.
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