2 Corinthians 3:18
Verse
Context
Sermons
Derek Prince
Jackie Pullinger
Watchman Nee
David Wilkerson
Warren Wiersbe
Denny Kenaston
Leonard RavenhillSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But we all, with open face - The Jews were not able to look on the face of Moses, the mediator of the old covenant, and therefore he was obliged to veil it; but all we Christians, with face uncovered, behold, as clearly as we can see our own natural face in a mirror, the glorious promises and privileges of the Gospel of Christ; and while we contemplate, we anticipate them by desire and hope, and apprehend them by faith, and are changed from the glory there represented to the enjoyment of the thing which is represented, even the glorious image - righteousness and true holiness - of the God of glory. As by the Spirit of the Lord - By the energy of that Spirit of Christ which gives life and being to all the promises of the Gospel; and thus we are made partakers of the Divine nature and escape all the corruptions that are in the world. This appears to me to be the general sense of this verse: its peculiar terms may be more particularly explained. The word κατοπτριζομενοι, catoptrizomenoi, acting on the doctrine of catoptries, which we translate beholding in a glass, comes from κατα, against, and οπτομαι, I look; and properly conveys the sense of looking into a mirror, or discerning by reflected light. Now as mirrors, among the Jews, Greeks, and Romans, were made of highly polished metal, (see the note on Co1 13:12), it would often happen, especially in strong light, that the face would be greatly illuminated by this strongly reflected light; and to this circumstance the apostle seems here to allude. So, by earnestly contemplating the Gospel of Jesus, and believing on him who is its Author, the soul becomes illuminated with his Divine splendor, for this sacred mirror reflects back on the believing soul the image of Him whose perfections it exhibits; and thus we see the glorious form after which our minds are to be fashioned; and by believing and receiving the influence of his Spirit, μεταμορφουμεθα, our form is changed, την αυτην εικονα, into the same image, which we behold there; and this is the image of God, lost by our fall, and now recovered and restored by Jesus Christ: for the shining of the face of God upon us, i.e. approbation, through Christ, is the cause of our transformation into the Divine image. Dr. Whitby, in his notes on this chapters produces six instances in which the apostle shows the Gospel to be superior to the law; I shall transcribe them without farther illustration: - 1. The glory appearing on mount Sinai made the people afraid of death, saying: Let not God speak to us any more, lest we die; Exo 20:19; Deu 18:16; and thus they received the spirit of bondage to fear, Rom 8:15. Whilst we have given to us the spirit of power, and love, and of a sound mind, Ti2 1:7; and the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father! and to this difference the Epistle to the Hebrews alludes, Heb 12:18-24. 2. Moses, with all his glory, was only the minister of the law, written on tables of stone; the apostles are ministers of the Gospel, written on the hearts of believers. Moses gave the Jews only the letter that killeth; the apostles gave the Gospel, which is accompanied with the spirit that gives life. 3. The glory which Moses received at the giving of the law did more and more diminish, because his law was to vanish away; but the glory which is received from Christ is an increasing glory; the doctrine and the Divine influence remaining for ever. 4. The law was veiled under types and shadows; but the Gospel has scarcely any ceremonies; baptism and the Lord's Supper being all that can be properly called such: and Believe, Love, Obey, the great precepts of the Gospel, are delivered with the utmost perspicuity. And indeed the whole doctrine of Christ crucified is made as plain as human language can make it. 5. The Jews only saw the shining of the face of Moses through a veil; but we behold the glory of the Gospel of Christ, in the person of Christ our Lawgiver, with open face. 6. They saw it through a veil, which prevented the reflection or shining of it upon them; and so this glory shone only on the face of Moses, but not at all upon the people. Whereas the glory of God, in the face of Jesus Christ, shines as in a mirror which reflects the image upon Christian believers, so that they are transformed into the same image, deriving the glorious gifts and graces of the Spirit, with the Gospel, from Christ the Lord and Distributor of them, Co1 12:5; and so, the glory which he had from the Father he has given to his genuine followers, Joh 17:22. It is, therefore, rather with true Christians as it was with Moses himself, concerning whom God speaks thus: With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the Lord (την δοξαν Κυριου, the glory of the Lord) shall he behold; Num 12:8. For as he saw the glory of God apparently, so we with open face behold the glory of the Lord: as he, by seeing of this glory, was changed into the same likeness, and his face shone, or was δεδοξασμενη, made glorious; so we, beholding the glory of the Lord in the face of Jesus Christ, Co2 4:6, are changed into the same glory. Thus we find that in every thing the Gospel has a decided superiority over the law and its institutions.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But we all--Christians, as contrasted with the Jews who have a veil on their hearts, answering to Moses' veil on his face. He does not resume reference to ministers till Co2 4:1. with open face--Translate, "with unveiled face" (the veil being removed at conversion): contrasted with "hid" (Co2 4:3). as in a glass--in a mirror, namely, the Gospel which reflects the glory of God and Christ (Co2 4:4; Co1 13:12; Jam 1:23, Jam 1:25). are changed into the same image--namely, the image of Christ's glory, spiritually now (Rom 8:29; Jo1 3:3); an earnest of the bodily change hereafter (Phi 3:21). However many they be, believers all reflect the same image of Christ more or less: a proof of the truth of Christianity. from glory to glory--from one degree of glory to another. As Moses' face caught a reflection of God's glory from being in His presence, so believers are changed into His image by beholding Him. even as, &c.--Just such a transformation "as" was to be expected from "the Lord the Spirit" (not as English Version, "the Spirit of the Lord") [ALFORD] (Co2 3:17): "who receives of the things of Christ, and shows them to us" (Joh 16:14; Rom 8:10-11). (Compare as to hereafter, Psa 17:15; Rev 22:4). Next: 2 Corinthians Chapter 4
John Gill Bible Commentary
But we all with open face,.... We are not like Moses, who had a veil on his face; nor like the Jews, who have one on their hearts: "but we all"; not ministers and preachers of the Gospel only, but all believers, whether Jews or Gentiles, greater or lesser believers, who are enlightened by the Spirit of God, and are converted to Christ: "with open face"; which may regard the object beheld, the glory of Christ unveiled, that has no veil on it, as Moses had on his face, when he delivered the law; or the persons beholding, who are rid of Jewish darkness; the veil of the ceremonial law, and of natural darkness and blindness of mind; and so clearly and fully, comparatively speaking, beholding as in a glass; not of the law, but of the Gospel, and the ordinances of it; not with the eyes of their bodies, but with the eyes of their understandings, with the eye of faith; which sight is spiritual, delightful, and very endearing; throws a veil over all other objects, and makes souls long to be with Christ: the object beheld is the glory of the Lord; Jesus Christ: not the glory of his human nature, which lies in its union to the Son of God, and in its names which it has by virtue of it; and in its being the curious workmanship of the Spirit of God, and so is pure and holy, and free from all sin; and was outwardly beautiful and glorious, and is so at the right hand of God, where we see him by faith, crowned with glory and honour; and shall behold him with the eyes of our bodies, and which will be fashioned like to his glorious body; but this sight and change are not yet: rather the glory of his divine nature is meant, which is essential and underived, the same with his Father's; is ineffable, and incomprehensible; it appears in the perfections he is possessed of, and in the worship given to him; it was manifested in the doctrines taught, and in the miracles wrought by him; there were some breakings forth of this glory in his state of humiliation, and were beheld by the apostles, and other believers, who saw his glory, as the glory of the only begotten of the Father. Though the glory of Christ as Mediator, being full of grace and truth, seems to be chiefly designed; this he has from God, and had it from everlasting; this he gives to his people, and is what makes him so glorious, lovely, and desirable in their eye: and whilst this delightful object is beheld by them, they are changed into the same image; there was a divine image in man, in his first creation; this image was defaced by sin, and a different one took place; now in regeneration another distinct from them both is stamped, and this is the image of Christ; he himself is formed in the soul, his grace is wrought there; so that it is no wonder there is a likeness between them; which lies in righteousness and holiness, and shows itself in acts of grace, and a discharge of duty. The gradual motion of the change into this image is expressed by this phrase, from glory to glory: not from the glory of the law to the glory of the Gospel; or from the glory of Moses to the glory of Christ; rather from the glory that is in Christ, to a glory derived in believers from him; or which seems most agreeable, from one degree of grace to another, grace here being signified by glory; or from glory begun here to glory perfect hereafter; when this image will be completed, both in soul and body; and the saints will be as perfectly like to Christ, as they are capable of, and see him as he is: now the efficient cause of all this, "is the Spirit of the Lord". It is he that takes off the veil from the heart, that we may, with open face unveiled, behold all this glory; it is he that regenerates, stamps the image of Christ, and conforms the soul to his likeness; it is he that gradually carries on the work of grace upon the soul, increases faith, enlarges the views of the glory of Christ, and the spiritual light, knowledge, and experience of the saints, and will perfect all that which concerns them; will quicken their mortal bodies, and make them like to Christ; and will for ever rest as a spirit of glory on them, both in soul and body: some read these words, by the Lord of the Spirit, and understand them of Christ, others read them, "by the Lord the Spirit", as they very well may be rendered; and so are a proof of the true and proper deity of the Holy Spirit, who is the one Jehovah with the Father and the Son. The ancient Jews owned this; "the Spirit of the living God, (say (k) they,) , this is the Creator himself, from him all spirits are produced; blessed be he, and blessed be his name, because his name is he himself, for his name is Jehovah.'' (k) R. Moses Botril in Sepher Jetzirah, p. 40. Ed. Rittangel.
2 Corinthians 3:18
The Glory of the New Covenant
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
How to Find Your Place
By Derek Prince12K32:01PoorRUT 2:12MAT 6:33ROM 12:22CO 3:18EPH 2:81TI 1:92TI 1:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of finding and fulfilling the good works that God has prepared for each individual. He contrasts two different approaches taken by Christians - some pursue personal ambition and worldly success, while others seek to align themselves with God's purpose. The speaker encourages Christians to understand their worth and significance in God's eternal plan, which can help overcome low self-esteem. The message is applicable to all Christians and lack of understanding in this area can lead to frustration in their lives. The sermon is based on 1 Timothy 1:9 and 2 Timothy 1:9, highlighting the idea that God has called and saved believers according to His own purpose and grace.
Intimacy
By Jackie Pullinger12K1:31:10Intimacy With GodEXO 33:13EXO 33:18MAT 6:332CO 3:162CO 3:18In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of attending a conference in South Africa and the challenges of the schedule. Despite feeling exhausted, the speaker allowed others to pray for them. The sermon then transitions to discussing the story of Moses, highlighting how he encountered God and was chosen for a purpose. The speaker emphasizes that following God's plan is not difficult, but rather the decision to do so can be challenging. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of sharing the love of Jesus and making Him known to others.
Two Creations (Reading)
By Watchman Nee7.3K28:11JHN 15:4ROM 6:4ROM 8:12CO 3:18GAL 2:20EPH 2:10COL 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the work of God in our lives is mysterious and beyond our understanding. He explains that through the new birth, we receive a new and divine life that is separate from our natural life. This new creation in Christ is made possible through the cross and resurrection of Jesus. The preacher encourages believers to abide in Christ and rest in the fact that God has placed them in His Son. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on Christ rather than trying to produce fruit, as it is God's work to fulfill His promises in our lives. The sermon also highlights the distinction between the kingdom of this world, dominated by Satan, and the kingdom of God. The preacher urges believers to have faith in the objective facts of the Gospel, which will transform them and make them fruitful in their Christian walk. The key message is to continually look to Christ and see ourselves in Him, rather than focusing on our own efforts or circumstances.
The Power of God's Presence
By David Wilkerson6.1K51:38Presence of GodEXO 29:43EXO 40:341SA 2:302CH 16:9MAT 6:332CO 3:18HEB 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking God's presence and experiencing His glory. He leads the congregation in a prayer of surrender and asks the Holy Spirit to create a hunger for righteousness and a desire to read the Word of God. The preacher explains that God's presence and His glory are distinct but interconnected, with the glory appearing only where His presence is. He then references Exodus 34, where God reveals His glory to Moses by proclaiming His name and demonstrating His merciful and forgiving nature.
Meet Your Psychiatrist: He Puts Life Together
By Warren Wiersbe5.6K47:35PSA 119:89PSA 119:105MAT 4:4JHN 6:35ROM 12:12CO 3:18HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of man as a trinity, drawing from Hebrews 4:12. He explains that just as the Old Testament priest cut the sacrifice into different parts, the word of God can separate between the soul and the spirit. The speaker uses the analogy of the tabernacle in the Old Testament, which had three parts: an outer court, a tent with two parts, and the Holy of Holies. He emphasizes that our will should be controlled by our mind and emotions, and that love is the greatest power for doing good. The speaker also highlights the importance of both Jesus Christ and the Bible in our lives, as they are interconnected and provide guidance and sustenance.
(Divine Attributes) 01 Visions of the Glory of God
By Denny Kenaston3.9K1:03:46Character Of GodEXO 19:14EXO 24:17EXO 33:18MAT 6:33JHN 1:14ROM 3:232CO 3:18In this sermon, the preacher describes a vision of four living creatures that he saw coming out of a glowing storm cloud. These creatures had the appearance of a man, but with four faces and four wings. Their feet were like the soles of a calf's foot and they sparkled like burnished brass. The preacher emphasizes the importance of engaging the mind while studying the Word of God and encourages listeners not to get discouraged when faced with challenging concepts. He also highlights the manifestation of God's glory and holy character in the Bible.
Moses and Exodus 33
By Leonard Ravenhill3.9K57:57MosesEXO 33:122CO 3:18HEB 4:11In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the request made by Moses to see God's glory. He emphasizes the importance of intimacy with God and the need to seek His presence. The preacher highlights the struggle and effort required in the Christian life, comparing it to Moses' climb up the mountain. He also discusses the difference between soulish and spiritual worship, emphasizing the need for a genuine connection with God. The sermon concludes with a reminder to not conform to the world's standards but to present ourselves as living sacrifices to God.
(Christ) the Power of Christ-Centered Theology - Part 1
By Denny Kenaston3.9K1:07:15Christ CenteredEXO 33:18MAT 22:37JHN 1:14ACT 2:412CO 3:182CO 4:6COL 1:18In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the growth of a church and the impact of preaching about Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of surrendering one's life to Christ and allowing revival to be a daily reality. The speaker shares the joy of taking people to New York City to preach and fellowship about Christ, witnessing the transformation in their hearts. However, the speaker expresses concern about the low demand for sermons about Jesus Christ compared to practical topics. He encourages listeners to recognize the centrality of Christ in their lives and the edifying effect of preaching about Him.
The Glory of God and the Image of Jealousy
By Carter Conlon3.4K1:00:19JealouslyPRO 29:18EZK 8:17EZK 9:4EZK 11:16ROM 1:322CO 3:182CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher warns the congregation about the dangers of turning away from God and indulging in sinful behavior. He emphasizes that those who take pleasure in wickedness and do not retain God in their knowledge will face consequences. The preacher references the story of Ezekiel, where God instructs him to set a mark on those who sigh and cry for the abominations being committed. He also highlights the importance of having a true sight of the divine presence and the role of the Holy Spirit in restraining lawlessness. The sermon concludes with a call to put away false idols and turn to the true husband, Jesus Christ, and to seek the glory of God in our lives.
Biblical Courtship Session #5 - God's Purpose for Marriage
By Paul Washer3.3K23:24Biblical CourtshipMAT 10:30ROM 8:29ROM 12:21CO 7:172CO 3:18PHP 3:101PE 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of wanting what God wants and being conformed to the image of Christ. He explains that conformity to Christ is a lifelong process that involves God's work through His Spirit and Word. The preacher also highlights God's providence in orchestrating events in our lives to conform us to Christ's image. He uses the example of a young man who is called to preach but also has a woman in his life, emphasizing the cost and beauty of conforming to Christ. Additionally, the preacher discusses the need to protect children's innocence and allow them to be children, as well as the purpose of marriage in serving and caring for one another. The sermon concludes by mentioning the importance of preparing oneself to be a godly husband and father and the call for all believers to minister in Christ's name for the advancement of His kingdom.
Light Rejected
By Keith Daniel3.2K1:10:00Rebellion Of ManMAT 6:33MAT 22:1JHN 3:16JHN 3:19JHN 3:212CO 3:18In this sermon, the preacher discusses the parable of the wedding feast from Matthew 22. He emphasizes that God has sent his servants to invite people to the wedding, but many have rejected the invitation. The preacher then highlights the famous verse, John 3:16, which speaks of God's love for the world and his gift of his only son for salvation. However, the following verses in John 3 reveal that people reject the light because they love darkness and their deeds are evil. The sermon concludes by discussing three responses to the light: rejection, neglect, and reflection.
Portraits of Christ
By C.H. Spurgeon3.1K44:19MAT 16:24ROM 8:292CO 3:18GAL 6:14PHP 3:10COL 3:101JN 2:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of Christians being conformed to the image of Christ. He highlights that Christ's nature and character should be reflected in the lives of believers. The preacher also emphasizes the significance of Christ's cross, stating that it is inseparable from understanding who Christ is. He encourages Christians to bear their own crosses and follow Christ's example. The sermon concludes with the preacher discussing the ultimate reward for believers who are conformed to Christ's image, including sitting at his right hand and receiving the Father's approval and delight.
Humanity of Jesus - Part 2
By A.W. Tozer3.0K39:31Humanity Of JesusISA 42:1MAL 3:10MAT 6:33ACT 2:41CO 13:122CO 3:182TH 1:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the purpose of sending out missionaries. He emphasizes that missionaries are sent to proclaim the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Jesus is described as the perfect example of what God intended for humanity, as he is both fully God and fully man. The preacher highlights that Jesus is the mediator, Lord, advocate, prophet, high priest, savior, and coming king. He also emphasizes that Jesus is the sample man and model man that God had in mind when he created humanity in his image.
Through the Bible - Genesis - Part 1
By Zac Poonen3.0K58:47GenesisGEN 1:4PSA 1:2PSA 92:14MAT 6:33LUK 24:322CO 3:18REV 22:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that God has the power to remake and perfect us, just as He did with the creation of man in His image. The speaker highlights the importance of hearing God speak in order to be transformed. The sermon draws parallels between the corrupted state of the earth in Genesis and the fallen state of humanity due to the influence of Satan. However, the message of Genesis is that God is in the business of remaking and redeeming ruined situations. The sermon also introduces the book of Genesis as a significant text that explores the beginnings of creation, sin, redemption, and the contrast between true and counterfeit religion.
The Faces of Jesus
By J. Oswald Sanders2.8K55:11JesusPSA 27:8ISA 52:14MAT 25:342CO 3:182CO 4:61JN 3:2REV 21:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of catching a vision of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. This vision will ignite a lifelong zeal to make Jesus known. The speaker encourages the audience to turn their eyes upon Jesus and focus on his wonderful face, as this will cause the things of earth to fade away in comparison to his glory and grace. The sermon also highlights the patience and love of God, as well as the significance of Jesus' marred face and scarred body in revealing the love and glory of God to humanity.
The Glory of the New Covenant
By Fred Zaspel2.7K39:40New CovenantROM 7:182CO 3:18GAL 5:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of reflecting Christ's glory through our behavior as a test of genuine faith. He shares his personal experience of encountering Christ and being transformed by the Spirit of God. The preacher highlights the radical change that takes place in believers, both inwardly and outwardly, as they are conformed to the image of Christ. He contrasts the old covenant, characterized by harsh commands and condemnation, with the new covenant of grace, where God provides all that He requires of us. The sermon references Augustine's prayer of "give what you command" and emphasizes the pursuit of God and compliance with His law.
(Through the Bible) 1 Corinthians 1-2
By Chuck Smith2.7K1:17:58Through The Bible1CO 1:101CO 2:11CO 2:141CO 9:192CO 3:182PE 3:18In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of not lording over one another but serving one another in love. He introduces the concept of the natural man, the spiritual man, and the upcoming topic of the carnal man. The natural man is at a disadvantage because he cannot understand or receive the things of the Spirit. However, the preacher emphasizes that God reveals these spiritual things to those who love Him through the Holy Spirit. The sermon encourages listeners to allow God to work in their lives and grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.
(Basics) 41. Jesus' Speech Was Always Loving
By Zac Poonen2.6K13:06PRO 18:21ISA 50:4MAT 7:3LUK 6:452CO 3:18GAL 5:22EPH 5:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of love in our speech and how it reveals what is in our hearts. He questions why people belittle and hurt others with their words, suggesting that it may be because they lack the love of Christ. The speaker then highlights Jesus as the perfect example of love, showing how he valued people and had compassion for them. He also emphasizes that the Holy Spirit wants to transform our speech to be like Jesus', but it requires our willingness to allow Him to control our tongues.
K-019 the Shaping of Godly Character
By Art Katz2.5K1:00:00Godly CharacterPSA 51:10PRO 3:5ISA 55:6ROM 12:22CO 3:18EPH 4:221PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the experience of a conference called Shekinah 74. The conference was established with the expectation that the glory of God would fall upon the attendees. However, instead of experiencing God's presence, there was a revelation of sin in the camp. The speaker describes the current state of society as amoral, undisciplined, and pleasure-seeking, lacking virtues such as decency and respect. The sermon emphasizes the need for repentance and a return to the simple virtues of patience, honesty, courage, responsibility, and kindness.
In the Image of God
By Keith Daniel2.5K1:16:31Image Of GodGEN 1:26PSA 119:11MAT 6:33ROM 8:292CO 3:18HEB 12:141PE 1:16In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful testimony of a man named Ellis Govan who had a life-changing encounter with a Christlike man named Will McFarlane. Despite initially feeling angry and resistant towards McFarlane, Govan's heart melted as he observed McFarlane's Christlike character and heard him speak. This encounter led Govan to cry out to God to make him holy, as he realized that holiness was attainable even for a young man. The speaker emphasizes the impact of a Christlike life, stating that it is the greatest message God has on earth and that it can deeply affect and transform others.
Hinderances to Beholding Him
By Alan Martin2.5K00:00HinderancesPSA 27:8PRO 29:182CO 3:182CO 4:4GAL 5:22HEB 12:11PE 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision of Jesus in order to avoid perishing and living a purposeless life. The story of Mary and Martha in Luke chapter 10 is used as an example of how distractions and worldly concerns can hinder our vision of Christ. The preacher urges the audience to lay aside anything that belongs to the sinful nature and to run in the Spirit. The sermon also highlights the failure of the Israelites in the wilderness, despite being delivered from Egypt and experiencing God's provision, due to their aimless wandering and lack of vision.
Have You Ever Felt That God Is Doing Nothing in Your Life?
By Carter Conlon2.4K45:06FailureTrusting in God's TimingGod's Quiet Work1KI 6:71KI 18:26PSA 23:2PSA 74:4ISA 30:15MAT 11:28JHN 14:11CO 2:92CO 3:18HEB 11:6Carter Conlon addresses the feeling of spiritual stagnation, emphasizing that even when it seems God is silent, He is actively working within us. He draws from Isaiah 30, highlighting that true strength comes from returning to God in quietness and confidence, rather than seeking worldly solutions. Conlon warns against the temptation to rely on external noise and quick fixes, urging believers to trust in God's quiet work in their lives. He illustrates this with the story of Elijah on Mount Carmel, contrasting the noise of false prophets with the quiet power of God. Ultimately, he reassures that God is continually building us into His temple, even when we cannot see or hear it.
Wisdom Lights Up Our Face
By Zac Poonen2.4K58:10PSA 34:5ECC 8:12CO 3:18In this sermon, the speaker uses the analogy of a hotel with many rooms to illustrate the Christian life. He emphasizes the importance of having nothing to hide and having a good and loving attitude towards others. The speaker also highlights the significance of speech, comparing it to salt that adds flavor to food. He encourages believers to let their speech always be with grace. Additionally, the speaker discusses the connection between the heart and the face, stating that one's face mirrors their heart. He emphasizes the importance of having a joyful and radiant countenance as a reflection of a heart that is aligned with God.
Men Whose Eyes Have Seen the King - Part 4
By T. Austin-Sparks2.2K48:05Seeing JesusMAT 17:1MAT 17:5MAT 17:92CO 3:182CO 4:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of Christ as the perfect pattern for believers to follow. He explains that Christ was tested in every aspect of life and through suffering, he perfected his character and obedience. The Holy Spirit is then described as working in believers to progressively manifest the character of Christ. The speaker also expresses concern that his teaching may not have been fully lived out by those who have received it, emphasizing the need for teaching to be practical and integrated into personal experiences with God.
09-10-80 10a Part I
By Bertha Smith2.1K55:36Christian LifePSA 119:105PRO 27:19MAT 6:33ROM 3:232CO 3:18JAS 1:221JN 1:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of examining the Bible like a mirror. He highlights that the Chinese view reading the Bible as examining it to find every relevant passage on a specific subject. The preacher emphasizes the need for guidance and extra Bible classes to understand and link up these passages. The sermon also touches on the concept of purity, using the analogy of a bride's costume to represent it. The preacher expresses concern over rushed wedding ceremonies and urges Christians to be true to their vows until death separates them. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God is always present with believers and that they do not need to beg for His presence.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But we all, with open face - The Jews were not able to look on the face of Moses, the mediator of the old covenant, and therefore he was obliged to veil it; but all we Christians, with face uncovered, behold, as clearly as we can see our own natural face in a mirror, the glorious promises and privileges of the Gospel of Christ; and while we contemplate, we anticipate them by desire and hope, and apprehend them by faith, and are changed from the glory there represented to the enjoyment of the thing which is represented, even the glorious image - righteousness and true holiness - of the God of glory. As by the Spirit of the Lord - By the energy of that Spirit of Christ which gives life and being to all the promises of the Gospel; and thus we are made partakers of the Divine nature and escape all the corruptions that are in the world. This appears to me to be the general sense of this verse: its peculiar terms may be more particularly explained. The word κατοπτριζομενοι, catoptrizomenoi, acting on the doctrine of catoptries, which we translate beholding in a glass, comes from κατα, against, and οπτομαι, I look; and properly conveys the sense of looking into a mirror, or discerning by reflected light. Now as mirrors, among the Jews, Greeks, and Romans, were made of highly polished metal, (see the note on Co1 13:12), it would often happen, especially in strong light, that the face would be greatly illuminated by this strongly reflected light; and to this circumstance the apostle seems here to allude. So, by earnestly contemplating the Gospel of Jesus, and believing on him who is its Author, the soul becomes illuminated with his Divine splendor, for this sacred mirror reflects back on the believing soul the image of Him whose perfections it exhibits; and thus we see the glorious form after which our minds are to be fashioned; and by believing and receiving the influence of his Spirit, μεταμορφουμεθα, our form is changed, την αυτην εικονα, into the same image, which we behold there; and this is the image of God, lost by our fall, and now recovered and restored by Jesus Christ: for the shining of the face of God upon us, i.e. approbation, through Christ, is the cause of our transformation into the Divine image. Dr. Whitby, in his notes on this chapters produces six instances in which the apostle shows the Gospel to be superior to the law; I shall transcribe them without farther illustration: - 1. The glory appearing on mount Sinai made the people afraid of death, saying: Let not God speak to us any more, lest we die; Exo 20:19; Deu 18:16; and thus they received the spirit of bondage to fear, Rom 8:15. Whilst we have given to us the spirit of power, and love, and of a sound mind, Ti2 1:7; and the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father! and to this difference the Epistle to the Hebrews alludes, Heb 12:18-24. 2. Moses, with all his glory, was only the minister of the law, written on tables of stone; the apostles are ministers of the Gospel, written on the hearts of believers. Moses gave the Jews only the letter that killeth; the apostles gave the Gospel, which is accompanied with the spirit that gives life. 3. The glory which Moses received at the giving of the law did more and more diminish, because his law was to vanish away; but the glory which is received from Christ is an increasing glory; the doctrine and the Divine influence remaining for ever. 4. The law was veiled under types and shadows; but the Gospel has scarcely any ceremonies; baptism and the Lord's Supper being all that can be properly called such: and Believe, Love, Obey, the great precepts of the Gospel, are delivered with the utmost perspicuity. And indeed the whole doctrine of Christ crucified is made as plain as human language can make it. 5. The Jews only saw the shining of the face of Moses through a veil; but we behold the glory of the Gospel of Christ, in the person of Christ our Lawgiver, with open face. 6. They saw it through a veil, which prevented the reflection or shining of it upon them; and so this glory shone only on the face of Moses, but not at all upon the people. Whereas the glory of God, in the face of Jesus Christ, shines as in a mirror which reflects the image upon Christian believers, so that they are transformed into the same image, deriving the glorious gifts and graces of the Spirit, with the Gospel, from Christ the Lord and Distributor of them, Co1 12:5; and so, the glory which he had from the Father he has given to his genuine followers, Joh 17:22. It is, therefore, rather with true Christians as it was with Moses himself, concerning whom God speaks thus: With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the Lord (την δοξαν Κυριου, the glory of the Lord) shall he behold; Num 12:8. For as he saw the glory of God apparently, so we with open face behold the glory of the Lord: as he, by seeing of this glory, was changed into the same likeness, and his face shone, or was δεδοξασμενη, made glorious; so we, beholding the glory of the Lord in the face of Jesus Christ, Co2 4:6, are changed into the same glory. Thus we find that in every thing the Gospel has a decided superiority over the law and its institutions.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But we all--Christians, as contrasted with the Jews who have a veil on their hearts, answering to Moses' veil on his face. He does not resume reference to ministers till Co2 4:1. with open face--Translate, "with unveiled face" (the veil being removed at conversion): contrasted with "hid" (Co2 4:3). as in a glass--in a mirror, namely, the Gospel which reflects the glory of God and Christ (Co2 4:4; Co1 13:12; Jam 1:23, Jam 1:25). are changed into the same image--namely, the image of Christ's glory, spiritually now (Rom 8:29; Jo1 3:3); an earnest of the bodily change hereafter (Phi 3:21). However many they be, believers all reflect the same image of Christ more or less: a proof of the truth of Christianity. from glory to glory--from one degree of glory to another. As Moses' face caught a reflection of God's glory from being in His presence, so believers are changed into His image by beholding Him. even as, &c.--Just such a transformation "as" was to be expected from "the Lord the Spirit" (not as English Version, "the Spirit of the Lord") [ALFORD] (Co2 3:17): "who receives of the things of Christ, and shows them to us" (Joh 16:14; Rom 8:10-11). (Compare as to hereafter, Psa 17:15; Rev 22:4). Next: 2 Corinthians Chapter 4
John Gill Bible Commentary
But we all with open face,.... We are not like Moses, who had a veil on his face; nor like the Jews, who have one on their hearts: "but we all"; not ministers and preachers of the Gospel only, but all believers, whether Jews or Gentiles, greater or lesser believers, who are enlightened by the Spirit of God, and are converted to Christ: "with open face"; which may regard the object beheld, the glory of Christ unveiled, that has no veil on it, as Moses had on his face, when he delivered the law; or the persons beholding, who are rid of Jewish darkness; the veil of the ceremonial law, and of natural darkness and blindness of mind; and so clearly and fully, comparatively speaking, beholding as in a glass; not of the law, but of the Gospel, and the ordinances of it; not with the eyes of their bodies, but with the eyes of their understandings, with the eye of faith; which sight is spiritual, delightful, and very endearing; throws a veil over all other objects, and makes souls long to be with Christ: the object beheld is the glory of the Lord; Jesus Christ: not the glory of his human nature, which lies in its union to the Son of God, and in its names which it has by virtue of it; and in its being the curious workmanship of the Spirit of God, and so is pure and holy, and free from all sin; and was outwardly beautiful and glorious, and is so at the right hand of God, where we see him by faith, crowned with glory and honour; and shall behold him with the eyes of our bodies, and which will be fashioned like to his glorious body; but this sight and change are not yet: rather the glory of his divine nature is meant, which is essential and underived, the same with his Father's; is ineffable, and incomprehensible; it appears in the perfections he is possessed of, and in the worship given to him; it was manifested in the doctrines taught, and in the miracles wrought by him; there were some breakings forth of this glory in his state of humiliation, and were beheld by the apostles, and other believers, who saw his glory, as the glory of the only begotten of the Father. Though the glory of Christ as Mediator, being full of grace and truth, seems to be chiefly designed; this he has from God, and had it from everlasting; this he gives to his people, and is what makes him so glorious, lovely, and desirable in their eye: and whilst this delightful object is beheld by them, they are changed into the same image; there was a divine image in man, in his first creation; this image was defaced by sin, and a different one took place; now in regeneration another distinct from them both is stamped, and this is the image of Christ; he himself is formed in the soul, his grace is wrought there; so that it is no wonder there is a likeness between them; which lies in righteousness and holiness, and shows itself in acts of grace, and a discharge of duty. The gradual motion of the change into this image is expressed by this phrase, from glory to glory: not from the glory of the law to the glory of the Gospel; or from the glory of Moses to the glory of Christ; rather from the glory that is in Christ, to a glory derived in believers from him; or which seems most agreeable, from one degree of grace to another, grace here being signified by glory; or from glory begun here to glory perfect hereafter; when this image will be completed, both in soul and body; and the saints will be as perfectly like to Christ, as they are capable of, and see him as he is: now the efficient cause of all this, "is the Spirit of the Lord". It is he that takes off the veil from the heart, that we may, with open face unveiled, behold all this glory; it is he that regenerates, stamps the image of Christ, and conforms the soul to his likeness; it is he that gradually carries on the work of grace upon the soul, increases faith, enlarges the views of the glory of Christ, and the spiritual light, knowledge, and experience of the saints, and will perfect all that which concerns them; will quicken their mortal bodies, and make them like to Christ; and will for ever rest as a spirit of glory on them, both in soul and body: some read these words, by the Lord of the Spirit, and understand them of Christ, others read them, "by the Lord the Spirit", as they very well may be rendered; and so are a proof of the true and proper deity of the Holy Spirit, who is the one Jehovah with the Father and the Son. The ancient Jews owned this; "the Spirit of the living God, (say (k) they,) , this is the Creator himself, from him all spirits are produced; blessed be he, and blessed be his name, because his name is he himself, for his name is Jehovah.'' (k) R. Moses Botril in Sepher Jetzirah, p. 40. Ed. Rittangel.