What is the ministration of condemnation, and what does it lead to?
The ministration of condemnation is the law given to Israel, which could only condemn the individual. Because condemnation leaves no other remedy, it leads to death. Scripture contrasts this with the ministration of righteousness and grace, which far exceeds the law’s glory and replaces it.
Les teaches that the ministration of condemnation is the law that was operating in the nation of Israel. It could only condemn the individual, and if a person is condemned, then death was the only alternative. Paul calls it a condemnation to death. Yet if that ministration was glorious, much more does the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. Les explains that the law was the way God mandated to Israel, but compared with grace it is nothing. The glory of legalism has no glory by reason of the glory that excelleth. He notes that millions today turn their back on grace, saying they will do the best they can and keep the commandments, which he calls a sad commentary. In verse 11 the point is made in plain language, not veiled.