2 Corinthians 3:2
Verse
Context
Ministers of a New Covenant
1Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you?2You yourselves are our letter, inscribed on our hearts, known and read by everyone.3It is clear that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Ye are our epistle - I bear the most ardent love to you. I have no need to be put in remembrance of you by any epistles or other means; ye are written in my heart - I have the most affectionate remembrance of you. Known and read of all men - For wherever I go I mention you; speak of your various gifts and graces; and praise your knowledge in the Gospel.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
our epistle--of recommendation. in our hearts--not letters borne merely in the hands. Your conversion through my instrumentality, and your faith which is "known of all men" by widespread report (Co1 1:4-7), and which is written by memory and affection on my inmost heart and is borne about wherever I go, is my letter of recommendation (Co1 9:2). known and read--words akin in root, sound, and sense (so Co2 1:13). "Ye are known to be my converts by general knowledge: then ye are known more particularly by your reflecting my doctrine in your Christian life." The handwriting is first "known," then the Epistle is "read" [GROTIUS] (Co2 4:2; Co1 14:25). There is not so powerful a sermon in the world, as a consistent Christian life. The eye of the world takes in more than the ear. Christians' lives are the only religious books the world reads. IGNATIUS [Epistle to the Ephesians, 10] writes, "Give unbelievers the chance of believing through you. Consider yourselves employed by God; your lives the form of language in which He addresses them. Be mild when they are angry, humble when they are haughty; to their blasphemy oppose prayer without ceasing; to their inconsistency, a steadfast adherence to your faith."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Ye are our epistle,.... Here a reason is given why they stood in no need of letters of commendation, to or from the church at Corinth, because that church was their living epistle, and which was much preferable to any written one. The apostle calls them their epistle in the same sense, as they are said to be his "work in the Lord, and the seal of his apostleship", Co1 9:1 they were so as persons regenerated by the Spirit and grace of God, in whose conversion he was an instrument; now it was the work of conversion in them, which was the epistle said to be written in our hearts; some think it should be read, "in your hearts"; and so the Ethiopic version reads it; and it looks as if it should be so read, from the following verse, and from the nature of the thing itself; for the conversion of the Corinthians was not written in the heart of the apostle, but in their own; and this was so very notorious and remarkable, that it was known and read of all men; everyone could read, and was obliged to acknowledge the handwriting; it was so clear a case, what hand the apostle, as an instrument, had in the turning of these persons from idols to serve the living God; and which was so full a proof of the divinity, efficacy, truth, and sincerity of his doctrine, that he needed no letters from any to recommend him.
2 Corinthians 3:2
Ministers of a New Covenant
1Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you?2You yourselves are our letter, inscribed on our hearts, known and read by everyone.3It is clear that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Cranbrook 1993 the New Covenant Is Impartation (10-4-93)
By George Warnock3.5K1:20:01New Covenant2CO 3:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of perseverance and patience in the Christian journey. He highlights how society's obsession with instant gratification can hinder our spiritual growth. The speaker also discusses the concept of seasons in God's plan and how they bring about change and transformation. He specifically mentions the season of baptism as a way to show our identification with Christ and transition from the old self to the new. The speaker expresses his belief that God will bring about a greater functioning of the law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus among His people.
The Influnce of the Holy Spirit Through a Believer
By Keith Daniel2.5K1:26:37Holy SpiritMAT 6:332CO 3:2HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher is concerned about the limited time he has to deliver a sermon and the lack of opportunity to provide explanation or revelation. However, God reassures him to trust in Him and simply deliver His word. The preacher shares his personal experience of pouring his heart out and sharing his testimony, which leads to a man throwing himself across the table and crying out for help. The preacher then warns the audience about the wrath of God and the need for repentance, but is thrown off a tram for his passionate delivery. Despite the opposition, the man who threw him off later comes to Christ, leading to a transformation in his behavior.
(Through the Bible) Ezekiel 36-39
By Chuck Smith1.9K1:26:47EZK 39:23EZK 39:29MAT 25:10ROM 11:172CO 3:2GAL 5:16In this sermon, the speaker urges the audience to be ready for the coming of the Lord. He encourages them to open their hearts to God and the Spirit, as God wants to pour out His Spirit upon them. The speaker mentions that the time of the Gentiles was fulfilled when the Jews regained control of Jerusalem in 1967. He warns that time is running out and advises the audience to study Revelation 6 through 18 to understand what will happen in the coming months and years. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of walking in the Spirit and being ready for the bridegroom's return.
The Witness of Truth
By Carter Conlon1.4K42:01TruthPRO 12:19MAT 18:162CO 3:21JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being people of truth and living a sincere and authentic life. He shares a personal story about his daughter's mission work and highlights the significance of truth in a world searching for reality. The speaker also references Psalm 15:4, which describes the characteristics of someone who truly abides in God's presence. He concludes by urging the listeners to live in the truth, even if it may be uncomfortable, and reminds them of the power that comes from being a witness of truth.
Spiritual Ministry. the Letter of Christ
By Stephen Kaung1.4K54:25Ministry2CO 3:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of developing our ministry as members of the body of Christ. He uses the example of Moses, who initially thought he was competent to minister to his people but ended up failing and fleeing to the wilderness. The speaker encourages believers to actively engage with the word of Christ and personally experience it before ministering to others. He highlights that the ministry should not be limited to the written word but should be filled with the spirit of the living God. The speaker also contrasts the Old Covenant, represented by the Ten Commandments engraved on stones, with the New Covenant, which is written by the spirit and brings life.
Threefold Obedience
By Jenny Daniel90943:29EXO 21:5ISA 55:6JER 29:13AMO 3:3MAT 11:282CO 3:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the high price paid on Calvary to conquer and cover all sin. He urges listeners to open their hearts to God's standards and accept His offer of freedom from guilt and sin. The preacher also highlights the importance of obedience and surrender in the lives of believers. He explains that by fully surrendering to God, we can serve Him faithfully and allow Him to lead us in our Christian walk. The sermon concludes with a story illustrating the concept of surrendering every part of ourselves to God.
James 02
By John W. Bramhall76959:46MAT 6:33JHN 15:142CO 3:2JAS 1:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of proving our Christian faith through practical evidence in our daily lives. He refers to the words of the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 3:2, where he describes believers as living epistles known and read by all. The preacher highlights the dangers faced by Christians in the world and encourages the audience to study and meditate on the word of God. He emphasizes the need for obedience and action, stating that faith without works is meaningless. The sermon concludes with an exhortation to be swift to hear and slow to speak, emphasizing the importance of listening to and obeying God's word.
How the New Covenant Works
By Robert B. Thompson6121:18:002CO 3:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of God's role in drawing people to Him. While believers are commanded to preach the gospel to all, it is ultimately God who knows who belongs in the church and calls them to be part of it. The purpose of the ministries of the body is to build the church and help believers grow in the likeness of Christ. The speaker also highlights the need for believers to bear witness to the world and be ready for the Lord's return. The sermon references Matthew 25 and Hebrews 8, emphasizing the surpassing glory of the New Covenant and the transformation it brings.
Christ's Life in You
By Erlo Stegen56140:38LifeGEN 1:26ISA 26:3ISA 53:5MAT 6:33ROM 7:192CO 3:2HEB 9:26In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the presence of negative traits in our lives such as anger, irritability, and unfriendliness. He emphasizes the need to examine our lives and align them with God's plan. The speaker then refers to Genesis 1:26, where God created man in His image and gave them dominion over the earth. He highlights the importance of living in a way that reflects God's image and asks the audience to consider what others would read in their lives. The sermon also touches on the role of sin and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ in reconciling man with God, and the failure of previous attempts, such as sacrifices and the giving of commandments, to restore man to his rightful place.
The Tabernacle (2 of 2)
By G.W. North2051:40:37TabernacleMAT 13:452CO 3:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of beholding the glory of the Lord and being transformed into His image. He refers to the labor of regeneration and renewing as the process of being renewed into the perfect image of the Son. The preacher shares a personal experience of receiving revelation from God in the early hours of the morning. He highlights the veiled nature of the gospel to those who are lost, but emphasizes the power of the cross and the blood of Jesus to cleanse sinners. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the treasure of God's truth is written in the hearts of believers, enabling them to love God with all their hearts.
Living Epistles of the Living Christ
By Smith Wigglesworth0Empowerment by the Holy SpiritTransformation2CO 3:2Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes that believers are living epistles of Christ, transformed by the Holy Spirit who writes God's law on their hearts. He explains that through the crucifixion of the old nature and the indwelling of Christ, believers can live a life empowered by the Spirit, leading to a ministry filled with signs and wonders. Wigglesworth encourages reliance on the Holy Spirit for prayer and compassion, highlighting the importance of being filled with God's love to effectively minister to others. He calls for a life of humility and dependence on God, urging believers to embrace the transformative power of the Holy Spirit to become true representatives of Christ. Ultimately, he stresses the necessity of continually seeking God's presence to fulfill His divine purpose in our lives.
Ii Corinthians 3 (Are You a Living Epistle?)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Living EpistlesTransformation by the Spirit2CO 3:2Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the significance of being a living epistle, reflecting Christ's glory in our lives. He challenges believers to purge themselves of worldly influences and to allow the Holy Spirit to transform them into vessels of honor, capable of demonstrating love, joy, and peace even in difficult circumstances. Waldvogel highlights the necessity of Holy Spirit-led gatherings where believers can encounter God's presence and be changed from glory to glory. He encourages self-examination to ensure that Christ is truly Lord in our lives, urging the congregation to meditate on the Word and behold God's glory to become effective witnesses of His love.
The Church, What Is It?
By John Nelson Darby0The Nature of the ChurchUnity in Christ2CO 3:2John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound nature of the Church as Christ's representative on earth, highlighting its role as an 'epistle of Christ' that reveals God's grace and power. He distinguishes between the Church, the Kingdom, and the salvation of souls, asserting that while the Church is a body united with Christ, the Kingdom represents God's reign and power. Darby discusses the Church's current position, its hope in being united with Christ in heaven, and its calling to be a faithful witness on earth. He stresses the importance of the Church's dependence on Christ for power and guidance, and the necessity of maintaining a constant reference to Him in all its activities. Ultimately, the Church's occupation is to live in communion with Christ, reflecting His nature and purpose in the world.
An Epistle of Christ 2 Corinthians 3
By John Nelson Darby0Transformation in ChristThe Role of the Holy Spirit2CO 3:2John Nelson Darby emphasizes that a true Christian is an 'epistle of Christ,' with Christ engraved on their hearts rather than on stone tablets. He contrasts the law, which condemns and brings death, with the grace of God through Jesus, who offers righteousness and liberty through the Holy Spirit. Darby urges believers to reflect on whether Christ is truly the object of their lives, highlighting that the Holy Spirit enables them to live out this reality. He explains that the church serves as a living testament to Christ, showcasing His virtues to the world. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep, personal relationship with Christ, leading to a transformed life that reflects His glory.
The Christian a Representative of Christ 2 Corinthians 3
By John Nelson Darby0Transformation through the SpiritRepresentation of Christ2CO 3:2John Nelson Darby emphasizes that Christians are representatives of Christ, as evidenced by the transformative power of the truth in their lives. He addresses the Corinthians' doubts about his apostolic authority by pointing to their own conversion as proof of his ministry. Darby explains that true Christianity is not merely about outward conduct but about having Christ engraved on the heart through the Holy Spirit. He contrasts the ministration of the letter, which brings condemnation, with the ministration of the Spirit, which offers righteousness and freedom. Ultimately, believers are called to reflect Christ's love and grace in their lives, serving as living epistles to the world.
Like Christ in Glory
By John Nelson Darby0Manifesting His GloryLiving For Christ2CO 3:2John Nelson Darby emphasizes the importance of living a life that reflects Christ's glory, urging believers to manifest His life in their actions and hearts. He reminds us that we are in the presence of the world to represent Christ, who intercedes for us before God. Darby stresses the need for earnestness in our faith, especially in challenging times, and challenges Christians to truly embody their faith so that others may understand the essence of Christianity. He calls for a deep sense of Christ's love, encouraging believers to live for Him and to share His message of redemption with those who do not know Him.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Ye are our epistle - I bear the most ardent love to you. I have no need to be put in remembrance of you by any epistles or other means; ye are written in my heart - I have the most affectionate remembrance of you. Known and read of all men - For wherever I go I mention you; speak of your various gifts and graces; and praise your knowledge in the Gospel.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
our epistle--of recommendation. in our hearts--not letters borne merely in the hands. Your conversion through my instrumentality, and your faith which is "known of all men" by widespread report (Co1 1:4-7), and which is written by memory and affection on my inmost heart and is borne about wherever I go, is my letter of recommendation (Co1 9:2). known and read--words akin in root, sound, and sense (so Co2 1:13). "Ye are known to be my converts by general knowledge: then ye are known more particularly by your reflecting my doctrine in your Christian life." The handwriting is first "known," then the Epistle is "read" [GROTIUS] (Co2 4:2; Co1 14:25). There is not so powerful a sermon in the world, as a consistent Christian life. The eye of the world takes in more than the ear. Christians' lives are the only religious books the world reads. IGNATIUS [Epistle to the Ephesians, 10] writes, "Give unbelievers the chance of believing through you. Consider yourselves employed by God; your lives the form of language in which He addresses them. Be mild when they are angry, humble when they are haughty; to their blasphemy oppose prayer without ceasing; to their inconsistency, a steadfast adherence to your faith."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Ye are our epistle,.... Here a reason is given why they stood in no need of letters of commendation, to or from the church at Corinth, because that church was their living epistle, and which was much preferable to any written one. The apostle calls them their epistle in the same sense, as they are said to be his "work in the Lord, and the seal of his apostleship", Co1 9:1 they were so as persons regenerated by the Spirit and grace of God, in whose conversion he was an instrument; now it was the work of conversion in them, which was the epistle said to be written in our hearts; some think it should be read, "in your hearts"; and so the Ethiopic version reads it; and it looks as if it should be so read, from the following verse, and from the nature of the thing itself; for the conversion of the Corinthians was not written in the heart of the apostle, but in their own; and this was so very notorious and remarkable, that it was known and read of all men; everyone could read, and was obliged to acknowledge the handwriting; it was so clear a case, what hand the apostle, as an instrument, had in the turning of these persons from idols to serve the living God; and which was so full a proof of the divinity, efficacy, truth, and sincerity of his doctrine, that he needed no letters from any to recommend him.