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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Corinthians 3:9 For if the ministry of condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry of righteousness!</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_corinthians/3-9.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/17/47_2Co_03_09.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Corinthians 3:9 - The Glory of the New Covenant" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="For if the ministry of condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry of righteousness!" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_corinthians/3-9.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_corinthians/3-9.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/">2 Corinthians</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/3.htm">Chapter 3</a> > Verse 9</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad9.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm" title="2 Corinthians 3:8">◄</a> 2 Corinthians 3:9 <a href="/2_corinthians/3-10.htm" title="2 Corinthians 3:10">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/3.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/3.htm">New International Version</a> If the ministry that brought condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry that brings righteousness! <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/3.htm">New Living Translation</a> If the old way, which brings condemnation, was glorious, how much more glorious is the new way, which makes us right with God! <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/3.htm">English Standard Version</a> For if there was glory in the ministry of condemnation, the ministry of righteousness must far exceed it in glory. <a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/3.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> For if the ministry of condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry of righteousness! <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For if glory was in the ministry of condemnation, much more does the ministry of righteousness abound in glory! <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/3.htm">King James Bible</a> For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. <a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/3.htm">New King James Version</a> For if the ministry of condemnation had glory, the ministry of righteousness exceeds much more in glory. <a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For if the ministry of condemnation has glory, much more does the ministry of righteousness excel in glory. <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/3.htm">NASB 1995</a> For if the ministry of condemnation has glory, much more does the ministry of righteousness abound in glory. <a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For if the ministry of condemnation has glory, much more does the ministry of righteousness abound in glory. <a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For if the ministry of condemnation has glory, much more does the ministry of righteousness abound in glory. <a href="/amp/2_corinthians/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For if the ministry that brings condemnation [the old covenant, the Law] has glory, how much more does glory overflow in the ministry that brings righteousness [the new covenant which declares believers free of guilt and sets them apart for God’s special purpose]! <a href="/csb/2_corinthians/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For if the ministry that brought condemnation had glory, the ministry that brings righteousness overflows with even more glory. <a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For if the ministry of condemnation had glory, the ministry of righteousness overflows with even more glory. <a href="/asv/2_corinthians/3.htm">American Standard Version</a> For if the ministration of condemnation hath glory, much rather doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. <a href="/cev/2_corinthians/3.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> If something that brings the death sentence is glorious, won't something that makes us acceptable to God be even more glorious? <a href="/erv/2_corinthians/3.htm">English Revised Version</a> For if the ministration of condemnation is glory, much rather doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. <a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> If the ministry that brings punishment has glory, then the ministry that brings God's approval has an overwhelming glory. <a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/3.htm">Good News Translation</a> The system which brings condemnation was glorious; how much more glorious is the activity which brings salvation! <a href="/isv/2_corinthians/3.htm">International Standard Version</a> For if the ministry of condemnation has glory, then the ministry of justification has an overwhelming glory. <a href="/net/2_corinthians/3.htm">NET Bible</a> For if there was glory in the ministry that produced condemnation, how much more does the ministry that produces righteousness excel in glory! <a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For if the service of condemnation has glory, the service of righteousness exceeds much more in glory. <a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For if the ministration of condemnation was glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For if the service which pronounces doom had glory, far more glorious still is the service which tells of righteousness.<div class="vheading2">Majority Text Translations</div><a href="/msb/2_corinthians/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For if the ministry of condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry of righteousness! <a href="/web/2_corinthians/3.htm">World English Bible</a> For if the service of condemnation has glory, the service of righteousness exceeds much more in glory. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> For if the ministry of the condemnation [is] glory, much more does the ministry of righteousness abound in glory; <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For if glory was in the ministry of condemnation, much more does the ministry of righteousness abound in glory! <a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for if the ministration of the condemnation is glory, much more doth the ministration of the righteousness abound in glory; <a href="/slt/2_corinthians/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For if the service of condemnation glory, much more the service of justice abounds in glory.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more the ministration of justice aboundeth in glory. <a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For if the ministration of condemnation is with glory, so much more is the ministration of justice abundant in glory. <a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/3.htm">New American Bible</a> For if the ministry of condemnation was glorious, the ministry of righteousness will abound much more in glory. <a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> For if there was glory in the ministry of condemnation, much more does the ministry of justification abound in glory!<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For if there be glory in the ministration of condemnation, much more will the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/3.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For if the administration of a guilty verdict was certain glory, how much more shall the administration of righteousness superabound in glory?<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/3.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For if the ministering of condemnation be glory, much more does the ministering of righteousness surpass in glory. <a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/3.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For if there was glory in the ministry of condemnation, how much more does the ministry of righteousness abound in glory. <a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/3.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For if the ministry of condemnation is glory, much more doth the ministry of righteousness excel in glory. <a href="/mace/2_corinthians/3.htm">Mace New Testament</a> for if the ministration of condemnation was illustrious, the ministration of righteousness will be much more glorious. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For if the service which pronounces doom had glory, far more glorious still is the service which tells of righteousness. <a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/3.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> For, if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more does the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. <a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/3.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> For if the ministration of condemnation was so glorious, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory: <a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddheG4hMg28?start=483" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/3.htm">The Glory of the New Covenant</a> …8will not the ministry of the Spirit be even more glorious? 9<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">For</a> <a href="/greek/1487.htm" title="1487: ei (Conj) -- If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc.">if</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tē (Art-DFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/1248.htm" title="1248: diakonia (N-DFS) -- Waiting at table; in a wider sense: service, ministration. From diakonos; attendance; figuratively aid, service.">ministry</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2633.htm" title="2633: katakriseōs (N-GFS) -- Condemnation, censure. From katakrino; sentencing adversely.">of condemnation</a> <a href="/greek/1391.htm" title="1391: doxa (N-NFS) -- From the base of dokeo; glory, in a wide application.">was glorious,</a> <a href="/greek/4183.htm" title="4183: pollō (Adj-DNS) -- Much, many; often. ">how much</a> <a href="/greek/3123.htm" title="3123: mallon (Adv) -- More, rather. Neuter of the comparative of the same as malista; more) or rather.">more</a> <a href="/greek/4052.htm" title="4052: perisseuei (V-PIA-3S) -- From perissos; to superabound, be in excess, be superfluous; also to cause to superabound or excel."></a> <a href="/greek/1391.htm" title="1391: doxē (N-DFS) -- From the base of dokeo; glory, in a wide application.">glorious</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hē (Art-NFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">is the</a> <a href="/greek/1248.htm" title="1248: diakonia (N-NFS) -- Waiting at table; in a wider sense: service, ministration. From diakonos; attendance; figuratively aid, service.">ministry</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/1343.htm" title="1343: dikaiosynēs (N-GFS) -- From dikaios; equity; specially justification.">of righteousness!</a> 10Indeed, what was once glorious has no glory now in comparison to the glory that surpasses it.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/romans/8-18.htm">Romans 8:18</a> I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us. <a href="/hebrews/8-6.htm">Hebrews 8:6</a> Now, however, Jesus has received a much more excellent ministry, just as the covenant He mediates is better and is founded on better promises. <a href="/galatians/3-19.htm">Galatians 3:19-25</a> Why then was the law given? It was added because of transgressions, until the arrival of the seed to whom the promise referred. It was administered through angels by a mediator. / A mediator is unnecessary, however, for only one party; but God is one. / Is the law, then, opposed to the promises of God? Certainly not! For if a law had been given that could impart life, then righteousness would certainly have come from the law. ... <a href="/romans/5-20.htm">Romans 5:20-21</a> The law came in so that the trespass would increase; but where sin increased, grace increased all the more, / so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. <a href="/hebrews/12-18.htm">Hebrews 12:18-24</a> For you have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom, and storm; / to a trumpet blast or to a voice that made its hearers beg that no further word be spoken. / For they could not bear what was commanded: “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned.” ... <a href="/romans/7-7.htm">Romans 7:7-13</a> What then shall we say? Is the law sin? Certainly not! Indeed, I would not have been mindful of sin if not for the law. For I would not have been aware of coveting if the law had not said, “Do not covet.” / But sin, seizing its opportunity through the commandment, produced in me every kind of covetous desire. For apart from the law, sin is dead. / Once I was alive apart from the law; but when the commandment came, sin sprang to life and I died. ... <a href="/john/1-17.htm">John 1:17</a> For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. <a href="/philippians/3-9.htm">Philippians 3:9</a> and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God on the basis of faith. <a href="/romans/3-19.htm">Romans 3:19-22</a> Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God. / Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin. / But now, apart from the law, the righteousness of God has been revealed, as attested by the Law and the Prophets. ... <a href="/hebrews/7-22.htm">Hebrews 7:22</a> Because of this oath, Jesus has become the guarantee of a better covenant. <a href="/exodus/34-29.htm">Exodus 34:29-35</a> And when Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was unaware that his face had become radiant from speaking with the LORD. / Aaron and all the Israelites looked at Moses, and behold, his face was radiant. And they were afraid to approach him. / But Moses called out to them; so Aaron and all the leaders of the congregation returned to him, and Moses spoke to them. ... <a href="/deuteronomy/27-26.htm">Deuteronomy 27:26</a> ‘Cursed is he who does not put the words of this law into practice.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ <a href="/jeremiah/31-31.htm">Jeremiah 31:31-34</a> Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah. / It will not be like the covenant I made with their fathers when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt—a covenant they broke, though I was a husband to them,” declares the LORD. / “But this is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD. I will put My law in their minds and inscribe it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they will be My people. ... <a href="/ezekiel/36-26.htm">Ezekiel 36:26-27</a> I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. / And I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes and to carefully observe My ordinances. <a href="/isaiah/42-21.htm">Isaiah 42:21</a> The LORD was pleased, for the sake of His righteousness, to magnify His law and make it glorious.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more does the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.the ministration of condemnation.<a href="/2_corinthians/3-6.htm">2 Corinthians 3:6,7</a> 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… <a href="/exodus/19-12.htm">Exodus 19:12-19</a> And thou shalt set bounds unto the people round about, saying, Take heed to yourselves, that ye go not up into the mount, or touch the border of it: whosoever toucheth the mount shall be surely put to death: … <a href="/exodus/20-18.htm">Exodus 20:18,19</a> And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off… the ministration of righteousness.<a href="/2_corinthians/5-21.htm">2 Corinthians 5:21</a> For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.<a href="/isaiah/46-13.htm">Isaiah 46:13</a> I bring near my righteousness; it shall not be far off, and my salvation shall not tarry: and I will place salvation in Zion for Israel my glory.<a href="/jeremiah/23-6.htm">Jeremiah 23:6</a> In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.exceed.<a href="/2_corinthians/3-10.htm">2 Corinthians 3:10,11</a> For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth… <a href="/1_corinthians/15-41.htm">1 Corinthians 15:41</a> There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory.<a href="/hebrews/3-5.htm">Hebrews 3:5,6</a> And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after; … <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_corinthians/1-5.htm">Abound</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-5.htm">Abounds</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-34.htm">Condemnation</a> <a href="/romans/8-34.htm">Condemns</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm">Dispensation</a> <a href="/ezekiel/30-9.htm">Doom</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/4-6.htm">Exceed</a> <a href="/matthew/5-20.htm">Exceeds</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm">Far</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm">Glorious</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm">Glory</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm">Greater</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-56.htm">Law</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm">Ministration</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm">Ministry</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm">Operation</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-7.htm">Producing</a> <a href="/romans/4-6.htm">Pronounces</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-6.htm">Punishment</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-34.htm">Righteousness</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm">Service</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm">Spirit</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm">Splendor</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-28.htm">Tells</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_corinthians/4-15.htm">Abound</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-15.htm">Abounds</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-3.htm">Condemnation</a> <a href="/1_john/3-20.htm">Condemns</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-10.htm">Dispensation</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-8.htm">Doom</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-13.htm">Exceed</a> <a href="/matthew/5-20.htm">Exceeds</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-17.htm">Far</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-10.htm">Glorious</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-10.htm">Glory</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-10.htm">Greater</a> <a href="/galatians/2-16.htm">Law</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">Ministration</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">Ministry</a> <a href="/colossians/2-12.htm">Operation</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-17.htm">Producing</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-6.htm">Pronounces</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-9.htm">Punishment</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-21.htm">Righteousness</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">Service</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-17.htm">Spirit</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-10.htm">Splendor</a> <a href="/james/2-16.htm">Tells</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 3</div>1. <a href="/2_corinthians/3-1.htm">Lest their false teachers should charge him with vain glory, </a> 2. <a href="/2_corinthians/3-2.htm">he shows the faith of the Corinthians to be a sufficient commendation of his ministry.</a> 6. <a href="/2_corinthians/3-6.htm">Whereupon entering a comparison between the ministers of the law and of the gospel,</a> 12. <a href="/2_corinthians/3-12.htm">he proves that his ministry is so far the more excellent, </a> 17. <a href="/2_corinthians/3-17.htm">as the gospel of life and liberty is more glorious than the law of condemnation.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/3.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_corinthians/3.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>For if the ministry of condemnation was glorious The "ministry of condemnation" refers to the Old Covenant, particularly the Mosaic Law, which was given to the Israelites at Mount Sinai. This law, while holy and just, highlighted human sinfulness and the inability to achieve righteousness through human effort alone. The glory of this ministry is evident in the dramatic events surrounding the giving of the law, such as the thunder, lightning, and the radiant face of Moses (<a href="/exodus/19-16.htm">Exodus 19:16-19</a>; 34:29-35). The law served as a tutor to lead people to Christ by showing the need for a savior (<a href="/galatians/3-24.htm">Galatians 3:24</a>). Despite its glory, it ultimately brought condemnation because it exposed sin without providing the power to overcome it (<a href="/romans/7-7.htm">Romans 7:7-13</a>).how much more glorious is the ministry of righteousness! The "ministry of righteousness" refers to the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ. Unlike the Old Covenant, which brought awareness of sin, the New Covenant imparts righteousness through faith in Christ (<a href="/romans/3-21.htm">Romans 3:21-22</a>). This ministry is more glorious because it offers a permanent solution to sin through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus, who fulfilled the law's requirements (<a href="/matthew/5-17.htm">Matthew 5:17</a>). The righteousness of Christ is imputed to believers, granting them justification before God (<a href="/2_corinthians/5-21.htm">2 Corinthians 5:21</a>). This ministry is characterized by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live righteously (<a href="/romans/8.htm">Romans 8:1-4</a>). The surpassing glory of this ministry is also seen in its eternal nature, as it brings believers into a lasting relationship with God (<a href="/hebrews/8-6.htm">Hebrews 8:6-13</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of 2 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth. He contrasts the old covenant with the new covenant. 2. <a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a> A major city in ancient Greece where the church Paul is addressing is located. Known for its diverse culture and significant challenges in maintaining Christian teachings. 3. <a href="/topical/o/old_covenant.htm">Old Covenant</a> Refers to the Mosaic Law, which Paul describes as the "ministry of condemnation" due to its role in highlighting sin. 4. <a href="/topical/n/new_covenant.htm">New Covenant</a> The covenant established through Jesus Christ, described as the "ministry of righteousness" because it brings justification and life. 5. <a href="/topical/m/moses.htm">Moses</a> The mediator of the Old Covenant, whose face shone with glory after receiving the Law, symbolizing the temporary glory of the old covenant.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_glory_of_the_old_covenant.htm">The Glory of the Old Covenant</a> The old covenant had a glory that was real and significant, as it revealed God's holiness and the seriousness of sin. Understanding the purpose of the law helps us appreciate the need for a savior. <a href="/topical/t/the_superiority_of_the_new_covenant.htm">The Superiority of the New Covenant</a> The new covenant surpasses the old in glory because it brings righteousness and life through Jesus Christ. Believers are called to live in the freedom and righteousness provided by Christ, not under the condemnation of the law. <a href="/topical/l/living_in_righteousness.htm">Living in Righteousness</a> The ministry of righteousness empowers believers to live transformed lives, reflecting the glory of Christ. Our lives should be a testament to the transformative power of the new covenant, marked by grace and truth. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_the_holy_spirit.htm">The Role of the Holy Spirit</a> The Holy Spirit is central to the new covenant, enabling believers to live according to God's will. Dependence on the Spirit leads to a life that glorifies God and fulfills the righteous requirements of the law.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_corinthians_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Corinthians 3</a> <a href="/q/what_distinguishes_mercy_from_grace.htm">What distinguishes mercy from grace?</a> <a href="/q/what_are_the_schemes_of_the_devil.htm">What does the Bible say about wealth inequality?</a> <a href="/q/why_does_paul_claim_he_wronged_no_one.htm">(2 Corinthians 7:2) Why does Paul insist he wronged no one, yet elsewhere admits to persecuting the church (cf. Acts 22:4)?</a> <a href="/q/is_atheism_a_religion.htm">What are Christ's active and passive obedience?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/3.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(9) If the ministration of condemnation be glory . . .--Many of the better MSS. give the reading, if there be glory to the ministry of condemnation. The latter phrase takes the place here of "the ministry of death" in <a href="/2_corinthians/3-7.htm" title="But if the ministration of death, written and engraved in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away:">2Corinthians 3:7</a>. The "letter," the "written law," as such, works death, because it brings with it the condemnation which awaits transgressors. It holds out to them the pattern of a righteousness which they have never had, and cannot of themselves attain unto, and passes its sentence on them as transgressors. Contrasted with it is the ministration which has "righteousness" as its object and result, and therefore as its characteristic attribute--the "law of the Spirit of life"--a law written in the heart, working not condemnation, but righteousness and peace and joy (<a href="/context/romans/8-1.htm" title="There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.">Romans 8:1-4</a>).<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 9. - The ministration of condemnation. The same antithesis between the Law as involving "condemnation" and the gospel as bestowing "righteousness" is found in <a href="/romans/5-18.htm">Romans 5:18, 19</a>. The glory; perhaps, rather, a glory; a stronger way of describing it as "glorious." Of righteousness. Involving the further conception of "justification," as in <a href="/romans/5-21.htm">Romans 5:21</a>; <a href="/romans/1-16.htm">Romans 1:16, 17</a>; <a href="/romans/4-25.htm">Romans 4:25</a>; <a href="/romans/5-21.htm">Romans 5:21</a>. <a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>For γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. if εἰ (ei) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1487.htm">Strong's 1487: </a> If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc. the τῇ (tē) Article - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. ministry διακονία (diakonia) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1248.htm">Strong's 1248: </a> Waiting at table; in a wider sense: service, ministration. From diakonos; attendance; figuratively aid, service. of condemnation κατακρίσεως (katakriseōs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2633.htm">Strong's 2633: </a> Condemnation, censure. From katakrino; sentencing adversely. was glorious, δόξα (doxa) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1391.htm">Strong's 1391: </a> From the base of dokeo; glory, in a wide application. how much πολλῷ (pollō) Adjective - Dative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4183.htm">Strong's 4183: </a> Much, many; often. more μᾶλλον (mallon) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3123.htm">Strong's 3123: </a> More, rather. Neuter of the comparative of the same as malista; more) or rather. glorious δόξῃ (doxē) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1391.htm">Strong's 1391: </a> From the base of dokeo; glory, in a wide application. {is} the ἡ (hē) Article - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. ministry διακονία (diakonia) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1248.htm">Strong's 1248: </a> Waiting at table; in a wider sense: service, ministration. From diakonos; attendance; figuratively aid, service. of righteousness! δικαιοσύνης (dikaiosynēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1343.htm">Strong's 1343: </a> From dikaios; equity; specially justification. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">2 Corinthians 3:9 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">2 Corinthians 3:9 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">2 Corinthians 3:9 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">2 Corinthians 3:9 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">2 Corinthians 3:9 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">2 Corinthians 3:9 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">2 Corinthians 3:9 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">2 Corinthians 3:9 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">2 Corinthians 3:9 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">2 Corinthians 3:9 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 3:9 For if the service of condemnation has (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/3-8.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 3:8"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 3:8" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/3-10.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 3:10"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 3:10" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>