QT 5/16/2025 2 Cor 3:12–18, The Christian life is an experience in constant change and growth

2 Corinthians 3:12–18 (ESV) —

12 Since we have such a hope, we are very bold, 13 not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face so that the Israelites might not gaze at the outcome of what was being brought to an end. 14 But their minds were hardened. For to this day, when they read the old covenant, that same veil remains unlifted, because only through Christ is it taken away. 15 Yes, to this day whenever Moses is read a veil lies over their hearts. 16 But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. 17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18 And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

 

NOTE: In Revelation 3:14-20, God describes the Laodicean church as blind, among other things. In fact, the description (wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked) is the opposite of what a Christian experiences when they come to Jesus. A true Christian experience is described in verses 17-18, where we are being transformed into the same image (Jesus) from one degree of glory to another. A relationship with Jesus Christ changes lives. You cannot have the Holy Spirit within you (which happens when you believe -- Eph 1:13), and not be changed.

 

I suppose you could quench the Spirit all your life. I am not sure why you would do that or why you would want to do that.

 

I was working on teaching a class the other day and I read this quote, "salvation is free but discipleship is very costly." I agree with the quote, but why would you come to Jesus and not want to sacrifice to become his disciple out of gratitude alone for such a great salvation? I still don't understand that attitude?

 

PONDER:

1. Do you know Jesus, really?
2. Are you experiencing change, slowly but surely, and from one degree of glory to another?

 

PRAYER: Father, thank you for what you are teaching me. Lately, there have been some very hard lessons. I truly want to trust you and see your hand. I want to be surprised by grace. I don't want to be a fixer, I desire to trust in you in all things. I know that the things of this life are not important. I don't want to hang on to them. I just want to take care of my family and serve you in ministry and share my faith with others.