2 Corinthians 3:9

Authorized King James Version

For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.

Word-by-Word Analysis

εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἡ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

διακονία

G1248

doth the ministration

attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the christian teacher, or technically of the diaco

τῆς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κατακρίσεως

G2633

of condemnation

sentencing adversely (the act)

δόξῃ

G1391

be glory

glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)

πολλῷ

G4183

much

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

μᾶλλον

G3123

(adverbially) more (in a greater degree)) or rather

#10

περισσεύει

G4052

exceed

to superabound (in quantity or quality), be in excess, be superfluous; also (transitively) to cause to superabound or excel

#11

ἡ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#12

διακονία

G1248

doth the ministration

attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the christian teacher, or technically of the diaco

#13

τῆς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#14

δικαιοσύνης

G1343

of righteousness

equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification

#15

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#16

δόξῃ

G1391

be glory

glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Corinthians.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes righteousness in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on righteousness address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?