2 Corinthians 3:15
“But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart.”
2 Corinthians 3:15 (KJV) states:
This verse is a part of a larger passage in which the apostle Paul contrasts the ministry of the old covenant, represented by the law of Moses, with the ministry of the new covenant, which is centred on the gospel of Jesus Christ. In this particular verse, Paul refers to the spiritual blindness or veil that covers the hearts of the people when the writings of Moses are read.
Here are a few key points to consider when studying this verse:
The Veil of Spiritual Blindness:Paul refers to a veil that covers the hearts of the people when Moses is read. In the preceding verses, Paul mentions that the Israelites had a veil over their minds, preventing them from fully understanding the true meaning of the law and recognising Jesus as the Messiah. The veil represents spiritual blindness and an inability to grasp the spiritual truths contained in the Scriptures.
The Continued Veil:Paul adds the phrase “even unto this day” to emphasise that the veil remains, even at the time of his writing. He is referring to the Jewish people who continue to read the law of Moses without recognising Jesus as the fulfilment of the law and the ultimate revelation of God.
Contrast between the Old and New Covenants:The primary purpose of Paul’s argument in this passage is to highlight the superiority of the new covenant over the old covenant. In the previous verses, he contrasts the ministry of the letter (the law) with the ministry of the Spirit (the gospel). The old covenant, with its emphasis on the external requirements of the law, cannot bring about true spiritual transformation. It is only through the new covenant, which is characterised by the work of the Holy Spirit, that the veil is lifted, and people can have a direct and intimate relationship with God.
The Role of Christ in Removing the Veil:The veil of spiritual blindness can only be removed through faith in Jesus Christ. In 2 Corinthians 3:16, which follows the verse in question, Paul writes, “Nevertheless, when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.” This verse emphasises that it is only through faith in Christ that the veil is lifted, allowing people to understand and experience the fullness of God’s truth and salvation.
In summary, 2 Corinthians 3:15 highlights the spiritual blindness and veiled understanding that persists when the law of Moses is read without recognising Jesus Christ as the fulfilment of the law. It underscores the need for faith in Christ to remove the veil and gain a deep understanding of God’s truth.
