Sunday, 5 July 2015
For even what was made glorious had no glory in this respect, because of the glory that excels.
2 Corinthians 3:10
This particular verse is based on the reading of the Greek version of Old Testament passages found in Exodus 34 (Exodus 34:29 & Exodus 34:35). Paul, using that idea concerning the glory of the situation at that time, says that it actually cannot be compared to “the glory that excels.”
The giving of the law was glorious. It was glorious in the display at its giving. It was glorious in the contents of the law which it revealed. It was glorious in how that law was ministered throughout the time of Israel’s life under it as well. And yet, it was a ministry of death. It showed that man cannot fulfill its requirements and thus only brought condemnation. The only thing that spared men from this was a grant of mercy based on the Day of Atonement rituals.
However, the covenant which came though the work of Jesus is a ministry of life. It excels in that where the law brought death, it brings life. Where the law brought condemnation, it brings salvation. Where the law was written on stone, it is written on the hearts. In Jesus, there is full pardon of sin. In Jesus, there is the sure hope of restoration with God. In Jesus, there is the prospect of eternal life. In all ways, the glory of the law is shown to have no glory compared to the work of Jesus on our behalf.
Life application: People often feel the need to “add” to the work of Jesus as if they must do something to please God. But what can be added to what God has done? If His plan of salvation isn’t capable of saving, then whatever we do is surely not going to take care of the problem. Rest in Jesus, trust in Jesus, and don’t add to the gospel which says that you are saved by grace through faith. Anything else isn’t the gospel.
Heavenly Father, after hearing what others say about salvation, I must ask, “What could I add to the work of Jesus?” It is beyond ridiculous to assume that You sent Him to save me but I need to do more in order to be saved. Rather, I accept that I am saved by grace through faith. In other words, I have believed and I am saved. Deal done! Thank Your for this simplicity, because we sure need it. Amen.