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"How will the ministry of the Spirit not be more glorious?"

Text: 2 Corinthians 3:8

THE GLORIOUS MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

The Apostle Paul made a clear distinction between the old and the new covenants (2 Corinthians 3:4-18). His insights are of great significance. His thoughts may be summarised as follows: –

1. The ministry associated with Moses

a) The law was written and engraved on stones (2 Corinthians 3:7).

b) It was “glorious” (2 Corinthians 3:7, 9-11).

c) But it was a glory that was passing away (2 Corinthians 3:7).

d) It was the ministry of death (2 Corinthians 3:7).

i) The letter of the law kills.

ii) It is unable to give life.

e) It was the ministry of condemnation.

2. The ministry associated with the Holy Spirit

a) It is specifically called “the ministry of the Spirit” (2 Corinthians 3:83:18).

b) It is also described as “the ministry of righteousness” (2 Corinthians 3:93:18).

c) Its glory far exceeded that associated with Moses (2 Corinthians 3:8-113:18).

LIBERTY FROM THE LORD

One of the most outstanding aspects of the ministry of the Holy Spirit is the giving of “liberty”. We are reminded of what the Lord Jesus said about the “freedom” that He came to give (John 8:32, 363:18).

1. The Lord Jesus came to free us

a) From the shackles of sin.

b) From the condemnation of the law.

2. The Spirit of God effectively brings about this freedom

a) There is freedom to be found in the Lord.

b) He sets the prisoners free (Luke 4:183:18).

c) Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty indeed (2 Corinthians 3:173:18).

FROM GLORY TO GLORY

The work of the Spirit of God is that of transforming our life. His work is to make us reflect the image of God.

1. The glory of the Lord is in mind.

2. His goal is to transform us, from a glorious beginning to a glorious conclusion (2 Corinthians 3:18).