2 Corinthians 3:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 3:11
11 For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 3 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of love, sacrifice, judgment. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55-56 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Paul defended his apostleship against challenges in a culture valuing rhetorical prowess.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-18: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
2 Corinthians 3:11
11 For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.
Analysis
For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious. Paul presents his third contrast: the done away (Greek to katargoumenon, τὸ καταργούμενον, "being abolished" or "fading") versus that which remaineth (Greek to menon, τὸ μένον, "abiding" or "permanent"). The old covenant was never designed to be permanent; it was a temporary administration pointing forward to Christ (Galatians 3:19-25). The verb katargeō (καταργέω) appears six times in 2 Corinthians 3, emphasizing the old covenant's obsolescence now that Christ has come.
By contrast, the new covenant remaineth—the present participle menon (μένον) indicates continuous, permanent existence. This echoes Jesus' words that His words "shall not pass away" (Matthew 24:35) and John's declaration that "he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever" (1 John 2:17). The new covenant will never be superseded because it rests on Christ's finished work and the Spirit's eternal presence. Its glory is permanent, not fading. The argument is again qal wahomer: if the temporary had glory, much more (Greek mallon, μᾶλλον) the permanent is glorious.
Historical Context
The concept that the Mosaic covenant would one day be "done away" was radical but biblically grounded. Jeremiah 31:31-32 explicitly contrasts the "new covenant" with the covenant God made with Israel at the Exodus, implying the old would become obsolete. Hebrews 8:13 makes this explicit: "In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away." Paul's teaching aligned with Jesus' declaration that He came to "fulfill" (complete and bring to fruition) the law and prophets (Matthew 5:17).
Reflection
- How does knowing that the new covenant is permanent—never to be replaced—give you security and confidence in your relationship with God?
- In what ways might you be clinging to temporary, "fading" religious practices or rules instead of embracing the permanent reality of life in the Spirit?
- What difference does it make to your daily life that the glory you possess in Christ will never fade or be taken away?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Hebrews 8:13