2 Corinthians 3:7-18: Becoming Like Christ
IT SEEMS TO me that it ought to be that Christ is most revealed when we hide ourselves. But that is the Old Covenant with its fading glory, condemnation focus and death-dealing impact. The New Covenant ministry is paradoxically this: as I look at Christ and as I reveal myself, it is not I who am revealed but Christ. I am like a Kodachrome transparency. If I am looked at, one will see almost no image at all. But if I am held to the light and looked through, a beautiful image begins to appear. In this passage Paul celebrates the revelation that comes with the New Covenant.
Warming Up to God
Ask God to reveal that part of himself which is in you. Spend some time seeing yourself through his eyes. Praise him for the beauty he reveals.
Read 2 Corinthians 3:7-18. »
Discovering the Word
- How does Paul demonstrate that ministry under the New Covenant is more glorious than under the Old (vv. 7-11)?
- How are we contrasted with Moses (vv. 12-16)?
- What does verse 18 reveal about the process and goal of our lives as Christians under the New Covenant?
- Paul speaks of our boldness (v. 12) and freedom (v. 17). Why should each of these characterize our New Covenant ministry?
Applying the Word
- What evidence do you see of the glorious transformation (metamorphosis) described in verse 18 in your life?
- Is it easy or difficult for you to recognize God's glory as it is revealed in you? Explain.
- In what area would you like to be made more like Christ?
Responding in Prayer
Praise God for the transformation he has worked and is working in you.
For Further Study
Tranformation: Developing a Heart for God by Rebecca Manley Pippert