How can we live more fully in the glory of the new covenant? Setting the Stage: The Glory That Outshines the Old “For if what was fading away came with glory, how much greater is the glory that endures!” (2 Corinthians 3:11) • The old covenant, written on stone, carried real but temporary splendor. • The new covenant, written on hearts by the Spirit, carries unfading, ever-growing splendor. • Our calling is to participate in that lasting glory day by day. Seeing the Contrast • Moses’ face shone, yet the radiance dimmed (Exodus 34:29-35). • In Christ the veil is removed; the radiance never fades (2 Corinthians 3:13-16). • Therefore our experience should be brighter, freer, and more confident than anything Israel knew at Sinai. Living Out the Unfading Glory 1. Behold Christ continually – “And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed…” (2 Corinthians 3:18) – Regular, focused exposure to Jesus in Scripture, worship, and fellowship allows His character to imprint on ours. 2. Walk by the Spirit, not the flesh – “So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16) – Daily reliance on the Spirit releases the same power that raised Christ (Romans 8:11). 3. Speak with boldness – “Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold.” (2 Corinthians 3:12) – The gospel is glorious; confident witness displays its splendor to others. 4. Enjoy true freedom – “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” (2 Corinthians 3:17) – Freedom from condemnation (Romans 8:1), fear (1 John 4:18), and legalism (Galatians 5:1) belongs to every believer. 5. Draw near with assurance – “Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by Jesus’ blood,” (Hebrews 10:19) – Constant access to the Father fuels worship, intercession, and daily guidance. Daily Practices That Keep the Veil Off • Scripture saturation—read, meditate, memorize. • Spirit-led obedience—respond promptly to every prompting. • Christ-centered fellowship—seek gatherings that exalt Him. • Communion and remembrance—celebrate the Lord’s Table often. • Grateful testimony—verbalize God’s works to reinforce truth. Anchored in Hope • The new covenant guarantees an inheritance that cannot fade (1 Peter 1:4). • The Spirit is the down payment of everything still to come (2 Corinthians 1:22). Living in that assurance lifts our gaze and keeps our hearts blazing with the glory that endures. |
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