2 Corinthians 3:7

Afrikaans 1933/1953

En as die bediening van die dood, met letters op klippe gegraveer, in heerlikheid was, sodat die kinders van Israel nie die oë kon vestig op die aangesig van Moses nie vanweë die heerlikheid van sy aangesig, wat tog moes vergaan,

What Does This Mean?

In this verse from the Bible, Paul is talking about how Moses' face glowed after he met with God on Mount Sinai. The glow was so bright that people couldn't look at him directly because it represented a kind of glory that would eventually fade away.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing outside and suddenly get really shiny from the sun, but not in a good way. Your friends can’t even look at you without squinting. That’s how Moses was after talking to God - he shone so brightly it made others uncomfortable because his glow wasn't meant to last forever.

Historical Background

This verse is part of the letter written by Paul (Saul) around 53-57 AD to encourage and instruct the Christians in Corinth, Greece. The Corinthians were struggling with issues related to living a Christian life amidst pagan influences, and Paul used this example from Moses' time to highlight the superior nature of the new covenant.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, think about how sometimes people shine because they do great things or say inspiring words. But remember that true lasting impact comes not just from outward appearances but from inner qualities like kindness and honesty that keep shining through any circumstances.

Topics

• glory
• Moses
• covenant
• Paul's letters
• shining light
• Christian influence

Related Verses

• Exodus 34:29
• Hebrews 8:6
• Romans 5:10
• Colossians 3:4
• Ephesians 3:7

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Moses' face glow after meeting God?

According to Exodus, when Moses came down from Mount Sinai after speaking with God, his face was shining because he had been in the presence of God's glory.

What does Paul mean by 'glory that was to be done away?'

Paul indicates that this glory, associated with the old covenant given through Moses, would eventually give way to a greater and more lasting form of glory found in Christ and the new covenant.

Why couldn't people look at Moses' face directly?

The brightness was so intense from God's presence that it made looking directly uncomfortable or even impossible for the Israelites.

How does this relate to Christian living today?

Christians are called to shine with a different kind of glory based on their faith in Christ, not just in outward appearances but through actions and character reflective of inner transformation.