King James Version
What Does 2 Corinthians 3:8 Mean?
“How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?”
Context
6
Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. giveth life: or, quickeneth
7
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:
8
How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?
9
For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.
10
For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious**?—Better, *be more in glory.* The ministration of the spirit—that which has spirit for its characteristic attribute, and proceeds from *the* Spirit and imparts it to others—is that which St. Paul claims as his ministry. The glory of the new covenant, must be as much above the glory of the old, as the living, life-giving Spirit is above the dead and death-bringing code which he speaks of as the “letter.”
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 3:8 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 3:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge