THE LAWS CONTRASTED
2 Corinthians 3

Introduction

1. Where there is a genuine, there will be a counterfeit.

2. With the spread of the gospel, there arose "Judiazers" spreading a false message of law and grace.

3. They taught that salvation was a combination of faith in Christ PLUS keeping the law of Moses. See Acts 15:1-4.

4. This is a "gospel of legalism."

5. Paul presents some contrasts.

Notice four contrasts in this chapter - - -

1. 1. Table of Stone - Human Hearts		1-3

   1. 10 Commandments were written on tables of stone.

   2. God writes on our heart.
      

2. Death - Life		4-6

   1. The letter – kills.

   2. A ministry of legalism brings death. Rules and regulations result in the death of joy, power, grace, and effective service.

   3. The spirit - gives life.

   4. A ministry of spirit will focus on the motive and transform a person's life.
      

3. Fading Glory - Increasing Glory		7-11

   1. New Covenant means spiritual life, not death.

   2. New Covenant means righteousness, not condemnation.

   3. New Covenant is permanent, not temporary.
      

4. Concealment - Openness	12-18

   1. Historical Event		12-13

   2. National Application		14-17

   3. Personal Application		18

      1. "Changed" = metamorphosis

      2. This process cannot be achieved by keeping the law of Moses.

Conclusion

1. The Old Covenant was a ministry of Law.

2. The New Covenant is a ministry of spirit.

3. The lure of legalism is still with us.