2 Corinthians 3:9 Meaning and Explanation
“For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →If the ministry that pronounced condemnation had glory, the ministry that brings righteousness overflows with far greater glory.
What Does 2 Corinthians 3:9 Mean?
Paul restates his comparison with new terms. The law's work he calls the ministry of condemnation, because it declares the verdict of guilt. The Spirit's work he calls the ministry of righteousness, because through Christ it sets sinners right with God.
The difference is not subtle but immense. One ministry tells us we have fallen short; the other supplies the very righteousness we lacked. To move from condemnation to righteousness is the deepest mercy the heart can know. Paul marvels that he should be a servant of such a thing, and invites his readers to marvel with him at the glory of being made right with God.
2 Corinthians 3:9 in the Original Language
dikaiosune (δικαιοσύνη), 'righteousness' -- right standing with God and the conduct that flows from it.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Corinthians 3:9
What does 2 Corinthians 3:9 mean?
If the ministry that pronounced condemnation had glory, the ministry that brings righteousness overflows with far greater glory.