2 Corinthians 3:10 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 3:10 mean?

2 Corinthians 3:10 says that even the earlier way God showed His glory—referring to the old covenant—seems to have no glory at all when compared to the much greater glory of the new covenant. The new way God is working outshines the old so much that the old seems insignificant by comparison.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, explaining the difference between the old covenant given through Moses and the new covenant brought by Christ. He is showing that the glory of the old covenant, which was real, is now overshadowed by the far greater glory of the new covenant, which brings lasting life and transformation.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 3:10

• "Glorious" (δεδόξασται, dedoxastai): This word means "made glorious" or "honored." Paul uses it to describe the old covenant, which did have real glory.
• "Glory" (δόξα, doxa): This is the key word for "glory" or "splendor." Paul repeats it to emphasize the comparison between the two covenants.
• "Excelleth" (ὑπερβάλλουσαν, huperballousan): This word means "that surpasses" or "goes beyond." Paul uses it to show that the new covenant's glory is so much greater that it makes the old seem as if it had none at all.

Why 2 Corinthians 3:10 matters

• 2 Corinthians 3:10 helps clear up that Paul is not saying the old covenant was bad or without value, but that its glory is now outshined by something even better.
• The verse emphasizes the dramatic difference between the old and new covenants, helping readers see why the new covenant is so central to Christian faith.
• This comparison prepares the reader for the rest of Paul's argument, where he explains how the Spirit brings lasting change and freedom, unlike the temporary glory of the law.