| Hidden within 2 Corinthians 3 lie seven misunderstood verses. It is here that Paul cites the narrative of Moses' veil (Exod. 34:29-35) to develop an analogy in verses 12-18. An apparent salvation-history theme overtly marks the chapter: letter/Spirit, Old Covenant/New Covenant, and Moses/Paul. In this context, religious scholars with diverse theological backgrounds equally press an eschatological meaning upon Paul's veil analogy. Therefore, the veil's existence elicits no spiritual effect for the new aeon.;Strictly applying an eschatological meaning to the veil analogy, however, appears insufficient in view of the probable soteriological message closing the chapter. Further, the veil's eschatological meaning does not logically extend to 2 Corinthians 4:1-6. Scholars have tried to reconcile the seeming disparity but without certitude. This study argues that Paul's reference to the veil initially retains the chapter's eschatological theme, but the Apostle transitions the analogy to express a soteriological message.;A closer look at the veil's disposition affiliated with unrighteous and righteous persons likely implies an order of salvation. The dissertation incorporates biblical and theological evaluations of 2 Corinthians 3:1-4:6 and Romans 5:12-8:2 to defend the thesis instead of relying upon predetermined doctrines. Overall, this study intends to provide an alternative explanation of Paul's veil analogy (2 Cor. 3:12-18). Some issues include: does the veil retain a soteriological value in the new dispensation; how does the veil affect unregenerate persons; and who or what causes the veil's effectual removal?... |
