The Mirror of the Word and other works by C.E. White can be purchased on her website, cewhitebooks.com or on Amazon

“But their minds were hardened; for until this very day at the reading of the old covenant the same veil remains unlifted, because it is removed in Christ. But to this day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their hearts; but whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.”

—2 Corinthians 3:14–16

We often look at the world around us and try to figure out how to “lift the veil” that divides unbelievers from salvation. 

Too often, I’m afraid we settle on something other than Christ. We try to lift the veil using exciting worship services or cultural relevance. We think it depends on our enticing words, our brilliant presentation, and our masterful debate tactics about the currently trending topics.

But Paul says, “I determined to know nothing among you, except Jesus Christ, and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2). He says his speech and preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom lest the hearers’ faith should stand in the wisdom of men rather than in the power of God (1 Corinthians 2:4–5). 

It’s not wrong to craft our words or to speak well—indeed, we’re instructed to grow in knowledge (Colossians 1:9–10) and teach skillfully (2 Timothy 2:24)—but if our foundation relies on our worldly tactics and wisdom rather than on knowing and speaking of Jesus Christ and his salvation, we may as well stay silent. All other considerations are secondary. 

The veil is lifted only in Christ when the hearers turn to him. No appeal, however winsome, will enact true change if it is not infused with Christ.

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