The Reconciled

Our God provides a beautiful lesson on reconciliation in 2 Corinthians 5:18-20. The term for reconciliation in the New Testament describes an exchange. It is an adjustment, bringing restoration to a damaged relationship. Exchanging the old hostile connection for a new better understanding. This is a bringing together of two parties. Reconciliation is reunion. Concerning sin, we are separated from God. Only in the blood of Christ do we find forgiveness, satisfying God’s justice and allowing us to draw near to Him in proper fellowship (Rom 5:10; Col 1:20). In obedience to the gospel call and the teaching of grace, we are reconciled. Even still, we should note there are obligations associated with reconciliation in this text.

First, the reconciled must do the job given to them. According to 2 Corinthians 5:18, God has given us the ministry of reconciliation. A ministry is an area of service. Leaving sin, we become slaves of righteousness (Rom 6:18). As faithful servants, we execute the commands of our master. God has tasked all Christians to serve in the area of evangelism (Matt 28:19-20; Php 4:9; 2 Tim 2:2; 1 Pet 2:9). The reconciled work to aid others, so that they may be reconciled to God also.

Second, the reconciled must use the word committed to them. Someone might ask the question, “With what shall I reconcile these people? How do I accomplish my task?” The answer is found in 2 Corinthians 5:19, God has committed to us the word of reconciliation. We have been equipped for the task (Eph 6:10-17; 2 Tim 3:16-17; 2 Pet 1:3; Jude 3). Now we must highlight, teach, and defend God’s word. Faith comes by hearing the word of God and is essential for justification and redemption (John 8:24; Rom 3:24-26; 10:17; 1 Cor 1:22-24). Men and women obey the gospel as a response to hearing gospel preaching (Acts 2:36-41; 8:12; Rom 1:16; 16:25). Christians must plant and water the seed which is the holy word of God (Luke 8:11; 1 Cor 3:6). The reconciled accomplish their work, using the truth of God’s word.

Third, the reconciled must represent the Lord and His interests. In 2 Corinthians 5:20, members of the church are called ambassadors for Christ. An ambassador is an official sent by a leader to foreign lands to serve as his representative and promote his goals. Therefore, citizens of the kingdom of God must be salt and light (Matt 5:13-16; Php 3:20). We must be careful not to bring reproach upon the church (Php 1:27; 2:15-16; Tit 2:9-10; 1 Pet 2:12). Christ came to seek and save the lost (Matt 18:11; Luke 19:10). God’s desire is for all to be saved from the darkness of sin (1 Tim 2:3-4; 2 Pet 3:9). The world should see Christ living in us (Gal 2:20; Eph 3:14-21; 1 Pet 4:1-2). The reconciled have a duty to be Christlike.

Every member of the Lord’s church should know that we are the reconciled! Yes, there is beauty in seeing what God has done for us through His Son. However, we must not forget our responsibility. We are ambassadors for Christ. We have been given a service to perform and have been equipped with God’s Word. Now let us urge all those outside the body, on Christ’s behalf, “Be reconciled to God!”