2 Corinthians 3:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 3:13
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:
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 3 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, sacrifice, fellowship. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 3:13
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:
Analysis
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: Paul now applies the Moses narrative allegorically. In Exodus 34:33-35, Moses veiled his face after speaking with the people because the reflected glory was fading. Paul interprets this: Moses veiled himself that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end (Greek pros to telos tou katargoumenou, πρὸς τὸ τέλος τοῦ καταργουμένου). The phrase to telos means both "the end" (termination) and "the goal" (purpose)—a deliberate ambiguity. Israel could not gaze at the fading of the glory, nor could they see the ultimate purpose (telos) of the old covenant: to point to Christ.
The present participle that which is abolished (Greek tou katargoumenou, τοῦ καταργουμένου) can refer to the fading glory on Moses' face or, more broadly, to the old covenant administration itself. Paul sees both: Moses' veil physically concealed the fading glory, but spiritually it symbolized Israel's inability to perceive that the old covenant was temporary, designed to terminate in Christ. Unlike Moses, new covenant ministers speak unveiled (parrēsia) because they proclaim permanent, unfading glory.
Historical Context
Exodus 34:29-35 describes Moses' shining face after receiving the second tablets. Rabbinic tradition interpreted the veil as protecting Israel from glory too intense to behold. Paul reinterprets: the veil concealed the fading of that glory, indicating the temporary nature of the Mosaic covenant. This was a shocking reinterpretation of a revered text. Paul argues that from the beginning, the old covenant bore witness to its own inadequacy and pointed forward to something greater, though this was veiled from Israel's understanding until Christ came.
Reflection
- How does Paul's interpretation of Moses' veil help you understand the Old Testament as pointing forward to Christ?
- What "veils" might be preventing you from seeing the full glory and implications of the new covenant in your life?
- In what ways do you need to proclaim the gospel more "unveiled"—with greater clarity and boldness—rather than obscuring its radical message?
Cross-References
- References Moses: 2 Corinthians 3:7
- Parallel theme: Colossians 2:17