Definition: For if the ministration of condemnation [be] glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly rich and complex verse from 2 Corinthians 3:9. It's a really interesting way of saying that even when things seem bad or difficult, God’s goodness and truth are far greater. Here’s a breakdown in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is talking about how even when something seems awful or wrong , God’s love and the truth of His plan can still shine brighter than anything that's causing suffering or difficulty. It’s like a spotlight shining on something dark, but it’s actually illuminating something much better. Let’s unpack each part: “For if the ministration of condemnation [be] glory…” – This is the tricky part. "Condemnation" means something that is seen as bad, wrong, or a punishment. It often implies judgment or blame. So, “if the ministration of condemnation be glory” means something seems good or right, but it's being criticized or treated badly. “…much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.” – This is the key part! "Righteousness" refers to God’s moral and just way of acting. “Exceed” means to be greater than. So, this verse says: Even more than anything that seems bad or wrong, God's truth and goodness are shining brighter. Putting it all together – a simple analogy: Think of it like this: Imagine a dark storm cloud. It’s causing rain (difficult things) and flooding (suffering). But the sun (God’s light and truth) shines through it, illuminating the land and making everything beautiful. The storm is "condemnation," but the sunlight is “righteousness” – far more powerful and valuable. What does this verse mean for us? It encourages forgiveness: It suggests that even when we make mistakes or are hurting, God’s grace and love can ultimately bring about healing and restoration. It emphasizes faith: It's a reminder that our trust in God is important, because it helps us see beyond the negative and into the good that He has planned for us. It’s about hope: It encourages us to hold onto belief in God's plan even when things are hard, because ultimately, His will will be done. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a commentary on the Church's history and its struggles with hypocrisy. The "condemnation" could refer to the failings of believers. However, it’s more about the potential for good that God offers even in our mistakes. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Give you a specific example of how this principle applies to modern life?