King James Version

What Does 2 Corinthians 3:12 Mean?

2 Corinthians 3:12 in the King James Version says “Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: plainness: or, boldness” — study this verse from 2 Corinthians chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: plainness: or, boldness”

2 Corinthians 3:12 · KJV

Hope

Context

10

For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.

11

For if that which is done away was glorious , much more that which remaineth is glorious .

12

Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: plainness: or, boldness

13

And not as Moses, which put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished:

14

But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: The conjunction seeing then (Greek echontes oun, ἔχοντες οὖν, "having therefore") connects to the preceding argument. Because Paul possesses such hope (Greek toiautēn elpida, τοιαύτην ἐλπίδα)—the confident expectation that the new covenant is permanent and glorious—he employs great plainness of speech (Greek pollē parrēsia chrōmetha, πολλῇ παρρησίᾳ χρώμεθα, literally "much boldness we use").

The term parrēsia (παρρησία) is crucial, meaning "boldness," "confidence," "frankness," or "freedom of speech." In Greek culture, parrēsia was the right of free citizens to speak openly in the assembly—the opposite of speaking in veils or riddles. Paul's ministry is characterized by open, unveiled proclamation of the gospel, in stark contrast to Moses veiling his face (verse 13). The new covenant minister has nothing to hide because the gospel is not a temporary, fading glory but permanent, transforming truth.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The concept of parrēsia was highly valued in Greek culture, especially in democratic Athens, where free speech was a citizen's privilege. However, in Paul's day under Roman rule, bold speech carried risks, especially for those challenging religious or political authorities. Paul's boldness was not mere bravado but Spirit-empowered confidence grounded in the gospel's truth and power. His opponents likely accused him of being too bold or arrogant; Paul responds that his boldness flows from the hope of the new covenant, not personal presumption.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does your confidence in the permanent, glorious new covenant affect your boldness in sharing the gospel?
  2. In what areas of your life are you speaking with timidity or veiled language rather than the "great plainness of speech" Paul describes?
  3. What specific "hope" fuels Paul's boldness, and how can that same hope embolden you in ministry and witness?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 7 words
Ἔχοντες1 of 7

“that we have”

G2192

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

οὖν2 of 7

“Seeing then”

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

τοιαύτην3 of 7

“such”

G5108

truly this, i.e., of this sort (to denote character or individuality)

ἐλπίδα4 of 7

“hope”

G1680

expectation (abstractly or concretely) or confidence

πολλῇ5 of 7

“great”

G4183

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely

παῤῥησίᾳ6 of 7

“plainness of speech”

G3954

all out-spokenness, i.e., frankness, bluntness, publicity; by implication, assurance

χρώμεθα7 of 7

“we use”

G5530

to furnish what is needed; (give an oracle, "graze" (touch slightly), light upon, etc.), i.e., (by implication) to employ or (by extension) to act tow

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Corinthians 3:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Corinthians 3:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Corinthians 7:4Acts 4:13Ephesians 6:19-20John 16:29Philippians 1:20Acts 9:27

Test Your Knowledge

2 Corinthians 3 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Corinthians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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