2 Corinthians 3:17
Verse
Context
The Glory of the New Covenant
16But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.17Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.18And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now the Lord is that Spirit - In Co2 3:6, Co2 3:8, the word το πνευμα, spirit, evidently signifies the Gospel; so called because it points out the spiritual nature and meaning of the law; because it produces spiritual effects; and because it is especially the dispensation of the Spirit of God. Here Jesus Christ is represented as that Spirit, because he is the end of the law for justification to every one that believes; and because the residue of the Spirit is with him, and he is the dispenser of all its gifts, graces, and influences. And where the Spirit of the Lord is - Wherever this Gospel is received, there the Spirit of the Lord is given; and wherever that Spirit lives and works, there is liberty, not only from Jewish bondage, but from the slavery of sin - from its power, its guilt, and its pollution. See Joh 8:33-36 (note), and the notes there.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the Lord--Christ (Co2 3:14, Co2 3:16; Co2 4:5). is that Spirit--is THE Spirit, namely, that Spirit spoken of in Co2 3:6, and here resumed after the parenthesis (Co2 3:7-16): Christ is the Spirit and "end" of the Old Testament, who giveth life to it, whereas "the letter killeth" (Co1 15:45; Rev 19:10, end). where the Spirit of the Lord is--in a man's "heart" (Co2 3:15; Rom 8:9-10). there is liberty-- (Joh 8:36). "There," and there only. Such cease to be slaves to the letter, which they were while the veil was on their heart. They are free to serve God in the Spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus (Phi 3:3): they have no longer the spirit of bondage, but of free sonship (Rom 8:15; Gal 4:7). "Liberty" is opposed to the letter (of the legal ordinances), and to the veil, the badge of slavery: also to the fear which the Israelites felt in beholding Moses' glory unveiled (Exo 34:30; Jo1 4:18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now the Lord is that Spirit,.... "The Lord", to whom the heart is turned, when the veil is removed, is Jesus Christ; and he is "that Spirit", or "the Spirit": he, as God, is of a spiritual nature and essence; he is a spirit, as God is said to be, Joh 4:24 he is the giver of the Spirit of God, and the very life and spirit of the law, without whom as the end of it, it is a mere dead letter: or rather as by Moses in Co2 3:15 is meant, the law of Moses, so by the "Lord" here may be meant the Gospel of Christ: and this is that Spirit, of which the apostles were made ministers, and is said to give life, Co2 3:6. And where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty; which may be understood of the third person in the Godhead; where he is as a spirit of illumination, there is freedom from former blindness and darkness; where he is as a spirit of regeneration and sanctification, there is freedom from the bondage of sin, and captivity of Satan; where he is as a comforter, there is freedom from the fear of hell, wrath, and damnation: where he is as a spirit of adoption, there is the freedom of children with a father; where he is as a spirit of prayer and supplication, there is liberty of access to God with boldness, Though rather the Gospel as attended with the Spirit of God, in opposition to the law, is here designed; and which points out another difference between the law and the Gospel; where the law is, there is bondage, it genders to it; it has a natural tendency to it: quite contrary is this to what the Jews (i) say, who call the law, "liberty": and say, "that he that studies in the law, hath , "freedom from everything":'' whereas it gives freedom in nothing, but leads into, and brings on persons a spirit of bondage; it exacts rigorous obedience, where there is no strength to perform; it holds men guilty, curses and condemns for non-obedience; so that such as are under it, and of the works of it, are always under a spirit of bondage; they obey not from love, but fear, as servants or slaves for wages, and derive all their peace and comfort from their obedience: but where the Gospel takes place under the influence of the Spirit of God, there is liberty; not to sin, which is contrary to the Gospel, to the Spirit of God in believers, and to the principle of grace wrought in their souls; but a liberty from the bondage and servitude of it: a liberty from the law's rigorous exaction, curse, and condemnation, and from the veil of former blindness and ignorance. (i) Zohar in Gen. fol. 90. 1. & in Exod. fol. 72. 1. & in Numb. fol. 73. 3.
2 Corinthians 3:17
The Glory of the New Covenant
16But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.17Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.18And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Losing the Anointing - Part 1 (High Quality)
By David Wilkerson4.6K29:15PSA 32:5ISA 61:1JER 29:13MAT 16:24LUK 9:23ACT 3:192CO 3:17PHP 3:10JAS 4:81JN 1:9This sermon emphasizes the freedom from guilt of the past through surrendering to God, trading shackles for a glorious song. It highlights the importance of seeking the anointing of God, the cost of maintaining it, and the need for a deep, personal relationship with God to experience His transformative power.
Crisis-01 Crisis of Identity
By Stephen Olford2.7K52:26MAT 5:16ROM 8:282CO 3:17JAS 1:25In this sermon, the preacher recounts the story of Paul's conversion on the Damascus road. He emphasizes the significance of Paul's encounter with Jesus and his subsequent choice to follow Him. The preacher then poses the question to the audience if they have answered the call to follow Jesus. He addresses the issue of feeling worthless and lacking identity, asserting that God has a purpose for every life. The preacher highlights the importance of understanding God's plan and purpose for each individual, drawing from the book of Romans and emphasizing the certainty of our relationship with God and His calling in our lives.
Testimony
By Brother Yun2.6K39:39PSA 107:13MAT 17:20JHN 8:36JHN 11:25ACT 16:25ROM 8:372CO 3:172CO 12:9EPH 6:121PE 2:9This sermon features Brother Yun, a Chinese Christian leader who endured persecution, imprisonment, and miraculous interventions by Jesus. Despite challenges, he emphasizes the power of Jesus' love and the impact of prayer and faith in overcoming obstacles. The message highlights the transformational power of Jesus in setting people free from various forms of bondage and bringing healing and salvation to individuals and nations.
Paul the Apostle
By Will Graham2.1K51:41Paul The ApostleMAT 6:33ACT 26:18ROM 1:15ROM 1:172CO 3:17In this sermon, Reverend Coilard emphasizes the importance of being fully yielded to Jesus Christ and having a heart for preaching the gospel. He shares the story of a man named El Mude who was transformed by the message of a preacher and went on to passionately preach the word of God. Reverend Coilard highlights the four evidences of the anointing: victory over sin, par in service, the fruit of the Spirit, and a burden for souls. He encourages believers to live a life of love and to be willing to fully yield themselves to God, believing that there is still a generation of men and women who will rise up to preach the gospel in the midst of a dark world.
Through the Bible - 2 Corinthians - Part 1
By Zac Poonen1.9K54:43Through The Bible2CO 3:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of serving the Lord with integrity and sincerity, rather than using the preaching of God's word as a means to make money. He encourages those in ministry to not be discouraged, but to keep their focus on Jesus and the tremendous ministry God has given them. The speaker also highlights the need for transparency and confession of any hidden sins or shame in one's life in order to effectively serve the Lord. He uses the analogy of a vessel, emphasizing that it is not the outward appearance or impressive gifts that matter, but rather the life and substance inside that is communicated to others.
(The Church in the Last Days) 01 - Tree of Life or Tree of Death
By Milton Green1.9K57:12GEN 1:1PSA 40:5PSA 40:72CO 3:171PE 1:3REV 14:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of opposing and exposing the powers of darkness in our lives. He encourages listeners to question old traditions and teachings that may conflict with the revelation they receive from the Word of God. The preacher urges the audience to listen to the entire series of tapes in numerical order to fully understand and receive the teachings. He also highlights the significance of praising God and seeking His approval above the opinions of others. The sermon emphasizes the need to change our allegiance from Satan to Jesus and warns of the consequences of rebellion against God.
Law & Grace
By Chuck Smith1.7K48:112CH 16:9PSA 100:2ACT 15:32CO 3:171PE 5:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God is able and willing to meet all our needs. He highlights that God's eyes are constantly searching the earth for those whose hearts are in tune with Him, so that He can show Himself strong on their behalf. The preacher encourages the audience to get their hearts in tune with God in order to receive His blessings and ministry. He also acknowledges the challenge of living in a fast-paced world, where it is difficult to find time for spiritual communion and meditation. The sermon includes references to Bible verses, such as Galatians 5:1, which urges believers to stand fast in the liberty that Christ has given them and not be entangled again in bondage.
Sons of Korah #1: Lesson of Hope: Psalms 42
By Stephen Kaung1.6K58:01Sons of KorahPSA 42:1MAT 6:332CO 3:172CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the verses from 2 Corinthians chapter 3 and 4, specifically verse 6 and verse 17. The main theme is the revelation of God's glory in the face of Jesus Christ and the freedom that comes from the presence of the Holy Spirit. The preacher emphasizes the significance of being able to see the face of God and how the veil has been removed through Jesus. The sermon also touches on the psalm written by David during a time of rebellion and danger, highlighting the importance of seeking after God and having the consciousness of His abiding presence.
Biblical Principles of Godly Dress
By Dean Taylor1.6K59:01Godly DressROM 14:131CO 6:192CO 3:17GAL 5:1EPH 5:251TI 2:91PE 3:3In this sermon, the speaker addresses the topic of godly dress and emphasizes the importance of dressing in a way that pleases God. He acknowledges that discussing this topic may be controversial but believes it is necessary. The speaker uses examples from the Bible, such as John Wesley, to illustrate the importance of being directed towards souls and having a purpose in our appearance. He encourages the audience, particularly young people, to not be swayed by the world's standards but to live and proclaim the gospel without compromise.
Is the Lord Limited?
By Chuck Smith1.1K28:56PSA 78:41ISA 59:1ZEC 4:6ACT 1:82CO 3:17EPH 3:20PHP 4:132TI 4:3HEB 13:8JAS 4:7This sermon emphasizes the danger of limiting the work of God in our lives through unbelief, restrictions, and attempts to control or manipulate God's message. It highlights the importance of being open to God's Spirit, allowing Him to work freely in and through us, and not putting limitations on what God desires to do. The speaker urges the congregation to seek a deeper surrender to God, to be willing vessels for His power and truth in a world that desperately needs it.
Make Your Life Count 4
By George Verwer99535:01Counting The CostACT 4:31ACT 20:321CO 8:132CO 3:17GAL 5:131JN 4:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of spiritual balance in the lives of believers. He encourages the audience to seek a balance between enthusiasm and being easily led astray. The preacher also discusses the balance between crisis experiences and the process of growth in one's faith. He highlights the miracle of people from different backgrounds coming together at the Jesus festival, emphasizing the need to bridge the gap between non-charismatic and charismatic believers. The sermon references 1st John chapter 4 verse 1 and touches on the concept of purging oneself of self-regard and training in pure love.
Living the Throne Life (Spanish)
By David Wilkerson97948:27ISA 40:31ROM 12:12CO 3:17EPH 2:6PHP 2:13COL 3:1HEB 4:16HEB 10:19JAS 4:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life surrendered to God, entering into a heavenly throne room experience through faith in Christ. It challenges believers to move beyond striving and comparison, focusing on laying down their will and embracing a life of rest and intimacy with God. The speaker encourages a shift from seeking revival to seeking a continuous heavenly life, where believers can boldly approach God's throne and live in His presence.
Into the All Sufficiency of Christ #2 - Fulness
By Ed Miller94549:542CO 2:142CO 3:122CO 3:172CO 4:5COL 2:3In this sermon, the preacher focuses on 2 Corinthians 4 and 5 as the basis for his message. He emphasizes the importance of not preaching oneself, but rather preaching Christ Jesus as Lord and serving others as bond-servants for Jesus' sake. The preacher then introduces the concept of the Roman triumphus, a parade held in Rome after a victory, to illustrate the transformation that occurs when one becomes a bondservant of God and man. He highlights three key changes that take place when one crosses the line into this new way of living. The sermon also explores the process by which God creates a bondservant's heart and the need for believers to be pressed beyond their own limitations and into the all-sufficiency of the Lord Jesus.
The Holy Spirit, the Giver of Life
By Thaddeus Barnum81024:49GEN 3:24ECC 3:11JHN 1:3JHN 14:6ROM 8:22CO 3:17GAL 5:1GAL 6:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of true freedom found in Christ, contrasting it with the false sense of freedom the world offers. It calls for a deep relationship with God through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, highlighting the need for personal transformation and deliverance from addictions and bondages. The speaker challenges the congregation to seek true freedom in Christ and to be lights in a dark world, standing firm in faith despite the cultural challenges and moral decline.
The Greatest Revelation Ever Given to Mankind
By Gayle Erwin6291:01:432CO 3:17This sermon emphasizes the greatest revelation given to mankind, focusing on the compassionate, gracious, and merciful nature of God as revealed in Exodus and 2 Corinthians. It highlights the transformation that occurs when we submit to God, the simplicity of the gospel, and the assurance of God's love and forgiveness for all who come to Him.
The Church: How Jesus Builds It #1 - Nature, Purpose and Function
By Bob Hoekstra57143:50MAT 28:19ACT 1:82CO 3:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying connected to Jesus Christ as the head of the church. He highlights the need for the church to be led and controlled by Christ rather than being caught up in busyness and worldly plans. The speaker shares a personal experience of their church's struggle to develop a long-term plan, which led them to embark on a nine-month study project called "Seeking the Master's Plan." The sermon also discusses the purpose of the church, which is to make disciples through evangelism and edification, as described in Acts 1:8 and Matthew 28:19-20.
Truly Free
By Basilea Schlink54904:35Radio ShowJHN 8:36ROM 6:182CO 3:17GAL 5:1JAS 1:251PE 2:161JN 1:9In this sermon transcript titled "Truly Free" by Basilia Schlink, the speaker shares her personal struggle with sin and her search for freedom. She finds solace in a Bible verse from John 8:36, where Jesus promises that those who believe in Him will be truly free. The speaker encourages listeners to engage in a battle of faith against their sins, committing themselves to God's chastening and allowing Him to break their rebelliousness. She emphasizes the power of Jesus' name in overcoming sin and encourages listeners to strive in faith, knowing that Christ can conquer every sin.
Behold the Man
By Gary Ham48949:35MAT 10:37JHN 8:36JHN 14:6JHN 14:92CO 3:17COL 3:17HEB 2:17HEB 12:2REV 3:20This sermon focuses on the significance of beholding Jesus as the central focus of our lives, highlighting how Jesus, as the perfect man, represents both God's character on earth and humanity's representation in heaven. It emphasizes the importance of surrendering to Jesus, acknowledging His power to save, transform, and bring freedom in our lives.
The History, Mystery and Tragedy of Samson - Part 3
By Ian Paisley45824:19GEN 49:222CO 3:17GAL 5:22EPH 4:15HEB 11:32This sermon delves into the life of Samson, exploring the lessons from his journey, including his backsliding, rebellion, and ultimate return to God. Despite his flaws, Samson's faith and ability to finish where he began earn him a place among God's heroes. The importance of spiritual growth, God's blessing, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit are emphasized as key elements in achieving strength and victory over challenges.
Follow Me Pt2
By Phil Beach Jr.2748:59Following ChristChristian LibertyRole Models in FaithISA 61:1ROM 8:21CO 3:11CO 4:161CO 8:11CO 9:191CO 10:311CO 11:12CO 3:17JAS 3:13Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the call for Christians to live lives worthy of being role models, urging believers to reflect on whether their actions and decisions align with the teachings of Christ. He highlights the Apostle Paul's bold invitation to 'follow me' as a challenge for Christians to embody a life of heavenly wisdom, maturity, and love, rather than earthly wisdom and division. The sermon encourages self-examination regarding how one's life can influence others positively, particularly in areas such as wisdom, relationships, and Christian liberty. Ultimately, Beach Jr. calls for a commitment to live transparently and authentically as representatives of Christ, fostering unity and spiritual growth within the community.
The Secret of Spiritual Power (F)
By G.D. Watson1EXO 33:14MAT 18:20MAT 28:20JHN 14:162CO 3:17G.D. Watson preaches about the secret of power lying in recognizing the constant presence of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging His presence in all aspects of our lives and work for God. The Holy Spirit always precedes and accompanies every work of grace, moving through truth and personalities to bring about spiritual transformation. By recognizing the Holy Spirit's presence, we are inspired with energy, definiteness, and a sense of freedom and gladness that nothing else can provide, enabling us to tap into a power above all eloquence and magnetism for gospel purposes.
Desperate to Change
By Glenn Meldrum1EXO 33:14PSA 141:8JHN 14:15ROM 6:142CO 3:17GAL 5:24PHP 3:8COL 3:2JAS 4:71JN 4:19Glenn Meldrum emphasizes the importance of desperation in overcoming habitual sin, highlighting the need for individuals to become serious about their relationship with Jesus and recklessly abandon themselves to God. He contrasts the struggles of believers with the unsaved, emphasizing that the law can only reveal sin but not bring true liberty. Meldrum stresses that victory over sin comes through surrender to God, not through self-effort, and that a driving passion for holiness is fueled by a consuming love for God. He encourages focusing one's affections on Jesus to overcome sin and find true intimacy with God.
Dangers in the Way #4 "Dangers of Bondage and Liberty"
By A.W. Tozer0Christian LibertyBondage and FreedomMAT 11:30JHN 4:24ROM 6:1ROM 14:132CO 3:17GAL 5:1GAL 5:13EPH 5:151TI 4:31PE 2:16A.W. Tozer addresses the dangers of both bondage and liberty in the Christian life, emphasizing that believers must avoid returning to the yoke of bondage from which they were freed, such as superstition and legalism. He warns against the dangers of misusing Christian liberty as a license to sin, stressing that true freedom in Christ is the ability to live righteously and love others without the constraints of external traditions or fears. Tozer encourages Christians to embrace their identity as children of God, living in the Spirit and exercising their freedom responsibly, while also being mindful of how their actions may affect others. He concludes by affirming that the yoke of Jesus is easy and His burden is light, urging believers to stand firm in their freedom without falling back into bondage.
The Basis of Deliverance
By John Nelson Darby0The Work of ChristDeliveranceROM 5:12CO 3:17John Nelson Darby emphasizes that true deliverance comes through the work of Christ and the sealing of the Holy Spirit, which grants believers liberty. He explains that while we live on earth, we must reckon ourselves as dead in Christ, understanding that our redemption is complete through His blood. Darby illustrates the journey of believers from redemption to glory, highlighting the importance of recognizing our position before God and the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives. He warns against relying on personal experiences rather than focusing on God's grace and love, urging believers to maintain a clear conscience and to judge themselves regularly. Ultimately, he reassures that through Christ, we are free from judgment and can approach God with confidence.
I Was at Ease, and He Brake Me Asunder.
By F.B. Meyer0Divine InterventionTrust in God's PlanJOB 16:12PSA 34:18PSA 119:71ISA 61:1JER 29:11JHN 8:36ROM 8:212CO 3:17PHP 1:61PE 5:10F.B. Meyer reflects on the theme of divine intervention in our lives, using the metaphor of sparrows trapped in a vestry to illustrate how God sometimes disrupts our comfort for our ultimate freedom and growth. Just as the sparrows were unaware that the verger and Meyer were trying to help them escape, we often fail to recognize that God's breaking of our ease is rooted in His love and desire for us to experience true liberty. Meyer draws parallels to Job's suffering, suggesting that God breaks up our complacency to lead us into a deeper relationship with Him and a fuller life. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's unchanging nature amidst life's changes and challenges.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now the Lord is that Spirit - In Co2 3:6, Co2 3:8, the word το πνευμα, spirit, evidently signifies the Gospel; so called because it points out the spiritual nature and meaning of the law; because it produces spiritual effects; and because it is especially the dispensation of the Spirit of God. Here Jesus Christ is represented as that Spirit, because he is the end of the law for justification to every one that believes; and because the residue of the Spirit is with him, and he is the dispenser of all its gifts, graces, and influences. And where the Spirit of the Lord is - Wherever this Gospel is received, there the Spirit of the Lord is given; and wherever that Spirit lives and works, there is liberty, not only from Jewish bondage, but from the slavery of sin - from its power, its guilt, and its pollution. See Joh 8:33-36 (note), and the notes there.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the Lord--Christ (Co2 3:14, Co2 3:16; Co2 4:5). is that Spirit--is THE Spirit, namely, that Spirit spoken of in Co2 3:6, and here resumed after the parenthesis (Co2 3:7-16): Christ is the Spirit and "end" of the Old Testament, who giveth life to it, whereas "the letter killeth" (Co1 15:45; Rev 19:10, end). where the Spirit of the Lord is--in a man's "heart" (Co2 3:15; Rom 8:9-10). there is liberty-- (Joh 8:36). "There," and there only. Such cease to be slaves to the letter, which they were while the veil was on their heart. They are free to serve God in the Spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus (Phi 3:3): they have no longer the spirit of bondage, but of free sonship (Rom 8:15; Gal 4:7). "Liberty" is opposed to the letter (of the legal ordinances), and to the veil, the badge of slavery: also to the fear which the Israelites felt in beholding Moses' glory unveiled (Exo 34:30; Jo1 4:18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now the Lord is that Spirit,.... "The Lord", to whom the heart is turned, when the veil is removed, is Jesus Christ; and he is "that Spirit", or "the Spirit": he, as God, is of a spiritual nature and essence; he is a spirit, as God is said to be, Joh 4:24 he is the giver of the Spirit of God, and the very life and spirit of the law, without whom as the end of it, it is a mere dead letter: or rather as by Moses in Co2 3:15 is meant, the law of Moses, so by the "Lord" here may be meant the Gospel of Christ: and this is that Spirit, of which the apostles were made ministers, and is said to give life, Co2 3:6. And where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty; which may be understood of the third person in the Godhead; where he is as a spirit of illumination, there is freedom from former blindness and darkness; where he is as a spirit of regeneration and sanctification, there is freedom from the bondage of sin, and captivity of Satan; where he is as a comforter, there is freedom from the fear of hell, wrath, and damnation: where he is as a spirit of adoption, there is the freedom of children with a father; where he is as a spirit of prayer and supplication, there is liberty of access to God with boldness, Though rather the Gospel as attended with the Spirit of God, in opposition to the law, is here designed; and which points out another difference between the law and the Gospel; where the law is, there is bondage, it genders to it; it has a natural tendency to it: quite contrary is this to what the Jews (i) say, who call the law, "liberty": and say, "that he that studies in the law, hath , "freedom from everything":'' whereas it gives freedom in nothing, but leads into, and brings on persons a spirit of bondage; it exacts rigorous obedience, where there is no strength to perform; it holds men guilty, curses and condemns for non-obedience; so that such as are under it, and of the works of it, are always under a spirit of bondage; they obey not from love, but fear, as servants or slaves for wages, and derive all their peace and comfort from their obedience: but where the Gospel takes place under the influence of the Spirit of God, there is liberty; not to sin, which is contrary to the Gospel, to the Spirit of God in believers, and to the principle of grace wrought in their souls; but a liberty from the bondage and servitude of it: a liberty from the law's rigorous exaction, curse, and condemnation, and from the veil of former blindness and ignorance. (i) Zohar in Gen. fol. 90. 1. & in Exod. fol. 72. 1. & in Numb. fol. 73. 3.