Introduction: Verse Mapping 2 Corinthians 3:16-18
In this blog post, we will explore verse map 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 using the DEEP Bible Study Method and the SOAKER verse mapping process: Spend time in prayer, Open His Word, Ask questions, Keep His Word before you, Enlighten, and Respond.
But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 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. (ESV)
S: Spend Time in Prayer
Before we dive into the scripture, it’s essential to start with prayer. As we prepare our hearts and minds for study, we ask God to guide us. Will you join me in prayer?
Father God, we just come to You, thanking You for this day and for Your Word. We ask You to show us what You want us to learn and help our hearts to always be open to receiving from You. Holy Spirit, thank You for being our Teacher. Teach us what You want us to know. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
O – Open His Word
Let’s read our verses in different translations to get a better understanding of the intent.
but whenever a person turns [in repentance and faith] to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty [emancipation from bondage, true freedom]. And we all, with unveiled face, continually seeing as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are progressively being transformed into His image from [one degree of] glory to [even more] glory, which comes from the Lord, [who is] the Spirit. (AMP)
But whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.
Explore more translations of 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 on Biblehub.com
A – Ask Questions
To understand this passage better, we must ask critical questions to establish the context. Here are some of the questions I pondered:
How is the veil removed?
Turning to the Lord removes the veil. Different translations highlight this as a change or turning in repentance and faith.
What does the freedom look like?
It represents freedom from sin’s dominion and the opportunity to live fully transformed in Christ’s image.
What does Paul mean by being transformed into His image?
It means living a life that reflects Jesus’ glory, growing in likeness to Him.
For additional guidance on verse mapping, check out this helpful guide to Bible verse mapping.
K – Keep the Word Before You
Meditating on the scripture can keep it visible throughout our day. Here are some ways that you may want to try to Keep His Word in front of you.
- Download the Scripture wallpaper with the verse for your phone or computer.
2. Write it out on a chalkboard or sticky notes.
3. Use Bible apps to set reminders, create personalized visuals, or help you memorize a verse.
By keeping the verse visible, we reinforce its message in our hearts and minds.
E – Enlighten
Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what He wants you to learn from the passage:
Here is what I learned. The veil is only removed by turning to the Lord. We need to be so grateful the veil has been removed from our eyes and pray for it to be removed from others so that they can see God for He truly is and experience His goodness.
R – Respond to Scripture
How will you respond to this scripture in your daily life? Consider these practical steps:
Live In Freedom: Embrace the victory Christ has given you and live it out daily. Even in challenging circumstances, recognize that you are part of a triumphant procession in Him.
Reflect Christ’s Image: Embrace the freedom from sin and the fullness of life in Christ.
Embrace your role as the aroma of Christ.
Strive to let your life shine with the glory of the Lord, demonstrating His love and grace to others.
Following the SOAKER method, we can dive deeply into 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 and allow the scripture to transform our understanding and lives. Spending time in prayer, reading and meditating on the Word, asking insightful questions, and seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance helps us respond to God’s call and live out His truth.
Holy Spirit, please reveal how this scripture applies to our lives today. Help us understand how removing the veil and the freedom in Christ transform us into His image.
For a deeper dive, check out the video where we walk you step-by-step through the DEEP Bible Study Method Verse Map.
