What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 3:12? Therefore Paul’s “therefore” points back to the magnificent argument he has just made about the superiority of the new covenant (2 Corinthians 3:6-11). • Under the old covenant, glory was fleeting; under the new, the glory is permanent (2 Corinthians 3:11). • The Spirit now gives life and righteousness, replacing the letter that condemned (Romans 8:1-4). • Because these truths are factual and final, “therefore” ties doctrine to daily confidence. since we have such a hope Hope here is not wishful thinking; it is the settled certainty that God has acted decisively in Christ. • We possess the hope of unveiled access to God (Hebrews 10:19-22). • We enjoy the hope of continual transformation “from glory to glory” by the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:18). • Our hope rests on the unchanging promise that the ministry of righteousness far exceeds the ministry of condemnation (2 Corinthians 3:9; Romans 5:17). This hope is “ours”—personal, present, and guaranteed (1 Peter 1:3-5). we are very bold Boldness flows naturally from secure hope. Paul’s team, and by extension every believer, can: • Speak the gospel plainly, without veils or half-measures (2 Corinthians 4:1-2). • Stand firm when opposed, knowing the message carries divine authority (Acts 4:29-31). • Approach God with confidence, not timidity (Ephesians 3:12). The boldness is not arrogance; it is Spirit-empowered clarity that honors Christ and loves people enough to tell them the truth. summary Because the new covenant is gloriously permanent, giving us certain hope in Christ, we can live and speak with Spirit-filled boldness. The facts of what God has done lead directly to fearless proclamation and confident living. |
    |