Even what was made glorious had no glory in this respect, because of the glory that excels. – 2 Corinthians 3:10
In some ways the Mosaic law is to the Christian what a crutch is to an athlete. It is good when needed and used properly. But a crutch cannot be employed to win a 100-yard dash, nor can leaning on a system of legal statements ever bring us spiritual victory.
Paul emphasized the diminishing splendor of the Old Testament law by comparing it to the surpassing glory of life and liberty in the Spirit. Referring to Moses’ shining face after he had been given the Ten Commandments, the apostle likened the fading brightness of his countenance to the temporary and incomplete nature of the Sinai disclosures he had received. The people of Israel would soon discover that God’s message from the mount was also the standard by which they would be condemned.
Where the Holy Spirit reigns, however, there is abundant grace, and its splendor far exceeds that of the law. Imagine lighting a match in a completely dark place. The sudden burst of flame provides an impressive display of light. But if you struck a match in the presence of the noonday sun, its flickering rays would seem insignificant.
The commandments were demanding and ultimately they condemned; but life in the Spirit brings the experience of God’s transforming power into our heart. – Mat De Haan
The law in itself is pure and good
And shows to us which way is right,
But grace has a glory that excels,
Flooding our path with Christ’s true light. – Bosch
READ: 2 Corinthians 3:5-18
The diminishing splendor of the law is no match for the glory of God’s grace.
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