In this episode of Wednesday in the Word, Krisan Marotta explores Paul’s bold claim that his ministry as an apostle is more glorious than the ministry of Moses. By comparing the Old and New Covenants, Paul shows that spiritual transformation doesn’t come from the Law but from the work of the Holy Spirit.



In this week’s episode, we explore:




* Why Paul says the law kills, but the Spirit gives life.



* The symbolic meaning of Moses’ veil and how it relates to hardened hearts.



* How the Spirit removes the veil and brings true transformation.



* The contrast between external obedience and inward change.



* What it means to be transformed from “glory to glory.”




By listening, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the glory of the gospel and how God is at work transforming hearts. Whether you’re teaching the Bible or seeking personal encouragement, this passage is a reminder that real change comes from God’s Spirit, not from our own efforts.







Why Paul’s Ministry Outshines Moses (2 Corinthians 3:7-18)



Paul continues defending his apostleship by highlighting the source and impact of his work. He isn’t exalting himself but clarifying that the power behind his ministry comes from God and that power brings real transformation.



Three Unifying Themes



1 - Paul is not the source of the gospel’s power.




* Paul emphasizes that he is not adequate in himself to produce the powerful results that follow his ministry.



* Any sufficiency or effectiveness in his ministry comes from God, not from personal strength.



* He is merely a weak vessel, while God is the one producing results through him.



* 2 Corinthians 2:15-16; 2 Corinthians 3:2-6; 2 Corinthians 4:5-7




2 - Paul speaks and acts with integrity and boldness.




* Paul does not peddle the gospel for personal gain but speaks with sincerity as someone commissioned by God.



* Paul speaks openly and plainly, believing that the gospel should be presented without manipulation or deceit.



* 2 Corinthians 2:17; 2 Corinthians 3:12-13; 2 Corinthians 4:1-2




3 - The gospel (and therefore Paul’s ministry) brings spiritual transformation, something the Law couldn't do.




* The gospel leads to life, not death.



* The gospel transforms people from the inside out by the power of the Holy Spirit.




Background: Exodus 34:27-35




* Whenever Moses stood before God, receiving God's commands, his face was uncovered. He would then come out and tell Israel what God had commanded, and they would see that Moses face shone from having been in the presence of God.



* The word glory has several different associations which are important in this passage. Glory can refer to a literal, bright, glorious light. Glory can have a metaphorical meaning: something that has glory is attractive, wonderful, worthy of admiration.



* When Moses' face glows with the glory of God, the light testifies to the fact that Moses has been with God. It’s a sign that Moses is speaking the truth and this message is from God.



* This veil on Moses' face is an accommodation of the fact that the glory of God is too much for the people to handle. They are afraid.




Paul’s Ministry Outshines Moses’ Ministry