Beholding in a Glass the Glory of God • Deshen Daily

But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. (2 Corinthians 3:18, KJV)

Beholding as in a glass a man walking into a steps of light

This profound verse captures the essence of Christian transformation. Today, let’s delve into three key phases in this verse: the open face, beholding the glory of the Lord, and being changed into the same image.

To comprehend what Paul communicates, the context is vital. He reflects on Moses descending from Mt. Sinai, his face so radiant with God’s glory that he had to veil it (Exodus 34:27-35). Though Moses’ action was simple, it prophetically indicated the spiritual blindness of the Israelites under the Old Covenant.

In contrast, our faces are unveiled in Christ. The spiritual blindness that clouded the hearts and minds of the Israelites has been lifted, enabling us to perceive God’s glory.

The term “beholding” in this verse is noteworthy. Different translations interpret it as “behold,” “reflect,” or “look at in a mirror.” However, as the ESV notes suggest, ‘beholding’ seems to align more closely with the unveiling of our faces, allowing us to see God’s glory. This glory is embodied in Jesus, God manifested in the flesh (John 1:14). We behold God’s glory as we know Jesus more and more(2 Corinthians 4:6). This truth is crucial: we see God’s glory today in the face of Jesus Christ.

What’s truly fascinating is the transformation that occurs as we behold God’s glory. We are changed into the same image, transitioning from one level of glory to another. This image is certainly Christ, who is the brightness of God’s glory and the express image of His person( Hebrews 1:3). As you behold the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ, you become what you behold—progressively Christlike, shining brighter and brighter as the morning sun ( Proverbs 4:18)!