How does 2 Corinthians 3:11 connect to Hebrews 8:6 about a better covenant? Setting the Scene: Two Covenants, Two Kinds of Glory • 2 Corinthians 3:11: “For if what was fading away came with glory, how much greater is the glory that endures!” • Hebrews 8:6: “But now, however, Jesus has received a much more excellent ministry, just as the covenant He mediates is better and is founded on better promises.” Paul and the writer of Hebrews both contrast the Sinai covenant with the new covenant in Christ. One sparkles for a moment; the other blazes forever. What Was “Fading Away” • Exodus 34:29-35 recounts Moses’ face shining after receiving the law—real glory, yet one that dimmed. • The tablets of stone (2 Corinthians 3:7) were glorious, but judgment and death followed for law-breakers (v. 6). • Hebrews 8:13 says the first covenant is “obsolete” and “aging,” ready to vanish—echoing Paul’s language of fading. The Glory That “Endures” • The Spirit writes on hearts, not stone (2 Corinthians 3:3). • Ezekiel 36:26-27 promised this heart-transformation. • Jeremiah 31:31-34 foretold forgiveness that would no longer remember sin—fulfilled in Jesus’ blood (Luke 22:20). • Result: an unfading glory, “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). Connecting the Verses: Better Covenant, Greater Glory 1. Source ‑ Old: ministry of Moses, mediated by angels (Galatians 3:19). ‑ New: ministry of Jesus, the eternal Son (Hebrews 1:1-3). 2. Foundation ‑ Old: written code; brought condemnation (2 Corinthians 3:9). ‑ New: “better promises” (Hebrews 8:6) of inner renewal and full pardon. 3. Duration ‑ Old: “fading away” (2 Corinthians 3:11). ‑ New: “endures” (same verse) and is “eternal” (Hebrews 13:20). 4. Access ‑ Old: veil remains, blocking sight of God’s glory (2 Corinthians 3:14-15). ‑ New: veil removed in Christ; we behold “with unveiled faces” and are “being transformed” (v. 18). Why the New Covenant Is Truly “Better” • Secures complete forgiveness—Hebrews 8:12. • Provides a perfect High Priest—Hebrews 7:25-26. • Invites bold entrance into the Most Holy Place—Hebrews 10:19-20. • Guarantees an indwelling Teacher—the Holy Spirit (John 14:26; 1 John 2:27). • Ensures an everlasting inheritance—Hebrews 9:15. Living in the Light of Unfading Glory • Celebrate: “For from His fullness we have all received, grace upon grace” (John 1:16). • Stand firm: “Christ is the mediator of a new covenant” (Hebrews 9:15). • Reflect: “We…are being transformed into His image from glory to glory” (2 Corinthians 3:18). |
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