What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 3:18?

2 Corinthians 3:18 is a profound and transformative verse that speaks to the heart of Christian sanctification and the believer's relationship with God. The verse reads:

"And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." (NIV)

To understand the full meaning of this verse, it is essential to consider its context within the broader scope of Paul's second letter to the Corinthians, as well as its theological implications.

Context and Background

In 2 Corinthians 3, Paul contrasts the old covenant, represented by the Law given to Moses, with the new covenant brought by Jesus Christ. The old covenant, while glorious, was limited and temporary. It was characterized by the giving of the Law, which revealed sin but could not provide the means for true transformation. Paul illustrates this by referring to the veil Moses wore after encountering God (Exodus 34:29-35). This veil symbolized the barrier between God and humanity, a separation that the Law could not fully bridge.

In contrast, the new covenant is characterized by the Spirit of God and brings about a profound internal transformation. Paul emphasizes that in Christ, the veil is removed (2 Corinthians 3:14-16). This removal signifies direct access to God and a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him.

Unveiled Faces

The phrase "with unveiled faces" signifies the removal of any barriers between the believer and God. In the old covenant, the veil symbolized the separation and the limited access to God's glory. However, in the new covenant, believers can approach God openly and freely, without any hindrances. This open access is possible because of the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ, who has reconciled us to God (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

Contemplating the Lord’s Glory

The term "contemplate" (or "behold" in some translations) implies a continuous and active process of gazing upon the glory of the Lord. This is not a mere casual glance but a deep, intentional, and ongoing focus on God’s character and presence. In the context of Christian life, this involves prayer, worship, studying the Scriptures, and living in a manner that seeks to honor God.

Transformation into His Image

One of the most remarkable aspects of this verse is the promise of transformation. As believers behold the glory of the Lord, they are "being transformed into his image." This transformation is not instantaneous but a progressive process—an ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. The Greek word used for "transformed" is "metamorphoō," which is the same word used to describe the transfiguration of Jesus (Matthew 17:2). It signifies a profound change from the inside out.

This transformation is into the image of Christ, reflecting His character, love, holiness, and righteousness. It is the fulfillment of God’s original intent for humanity, to bear His image (Genesis 1:27), which was marred by sin but is being restored through Christ.

Ever-Increasing Glory

The phrase "with ever-increasing glory" suggests a continual and dynamic process of growth in the believer’s life. Unlike the fading glory of the old covenant, the glory experienced in the new covenant is ever-increasing. This reflects the boundless and eternal nature of God’s glory and His work in our lives. As believers grow in their relationship with God, they reflect more of His character and presence.

Role of the Holy Spirit

The transformation described in this verse "comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the believer’s sanctification. It is the Spirit who convicts of sin, illuminates the truth of Scripture, empowers for service, and produces the fruit of the Spirit in the believer’s life (Galatians 5:22-23). The Holy Spirit is the agent of transformation, making the believer more like Christ.

Practical Implications

Understanding the meaning of 2 Corinthians 3:18 has several practical implications for the Christian life:

1. Intimacy with God: The removal of the veil signifies that believers can have a direct and intimate relationship with God. This encourages a life of prayer, worship, and communion with Him.

2. Continuous Growth: The process of transformation is ongoing. Christians are called to continually seek God’s presence and allow the Holy Spirit to work in their lives, leading to spiritual growth and maturity.

3. Reflecting Christ: As believers are transformed into the image of Christ, they are called to reflect His character in their daily lives. This involves living out the values and teachings of Jesus in practical ways.

4. Dependence on the Holy Spirit: Recognizing that transformation comes from the Spirit encourages believers to rely on the Holy Spirit’s guidance and power rather than their own efforts.

Theological Reflections

Theologically, 2 Corinthians 3:18 speaks to the doctrine of sanctification, the process by which believers are made holy. It also highlights the new covenant’s superiority over the old covenant, emphasizing the transformative power of the Spirit. This verse underscores the Christian hope of becoming more like Christ, a hope that is both present and future.

The process described in this verse also points to the ultimate glorification of believers, a future state where they will fully reflect the glory of God (Romans 8:30). While this transformation begins in the present life, it will be completed in the life to come.

Conclusion

2 Corinthians 3:18 is a rich and profound verse that encapsulates the essence of the Christian journey. It speaks of the removal of barriers between God and humanity, the continuous and active contemplation of God’s glory, the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, and the ever-increasing reflection of Christ’s image in the believer’s life. This verse calls believers to a life of intimacy with God, continuous growth, and reliance on the Holy Spirit, with the ultimate hope of being fully transformed into the image of Christ.