2 Corinthians 3:18 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 3:18 mean?

2 Corinthians 3:18 says that all believers, with nothing covering their faces, are looking at the Lord’s glory as if reflected in a mirror and are being changed to become more like Him, step by step, by the Spirit of the Lord. This verse describes a process of transformation that happens as people behold God’s glory.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, explaining how the new covenant in Christ is different from the old covenant given to Moses. In this verse, Paul uses the image of looking into a mirror to show that believers can now see and reflect God’s glory openly, unlike Moses who had to cover his face. The change Paul describes is ongoing and comes from God’s Spirit, not from human effort.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 3:18

• "Open" (ἀνακεκαλυμμένῳ, anakekalymmenō) face: This phrase means "unveiled" or "uncovered," highlighting that believers have direct access to God’s presence, unlike the veiled face of Moses.
• "Glass" (κατόπριζομενοι, katoptrizomenoi): The Greek word here refers to a mirror, but ancient mirrors were made of polished metal and gave a dim reflection. Paul’s image suggests that believers see God’s glory truly, but not yet in complete fullness.
• "Changed" (μεταμορφούμεθα, metamorphoumetha): This word means to be transformed or transfigured, indicating a deep, inner change rather than just an outward appearance.
• "Glory" (δόξα, doxa): Paul repeats this word to emphasize that the transformation is from one degree of God’s glory to another, showing a continual process rather than a single event.

Why 2 Corinthians 3:18 matters

• This verse clarifies that spiritual transformation is not instant but happens gradually as believers continue to focus on Christ.
• Paul’s contrast with Moses’ veiled face shows that, under the new covenant, every believer has open access to God’s presence, not just special leaders.
• The emphasis on the Spirit’s role reminds readers that true change comes from God working within, not from following rules or outward rituals.