“He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” 2 Corinthians 3:6
The letter is a reference to the old covenant … that is, the Ten Commandments, written on stone.
“Ministers” is a Greek word meaning “slave” or “servant.” One who is wholly owned and who owes undivided allegiance and obedience to a master. Many OT believers were called servants of God, such as Moses (Psalm 105:26), Joshua (Joshua 24:29), David (2 Samuel 7:5), and the prophets (Jeremiah 7:25). Paul uses this term to describe both the pastoral office and his own apostolic office.
“New covenant” is the work of Jesus Christ, who is the fulfillment of both the Law and the promises of the OT.
“The letter kills” is a reference to the fact that the “letter of the Law” puts the sinner to death. The letter kills because all break the law (sin), and the penalty for sin is always death.
“The Spirit gives life” means that God works in our hearts, through the promises of the Gospel of Jesus, to bring life and salvation to believers.
God’s blessings on your day…