2 Corinthians 5
by Philip Layton
God reconciles himself to the world through Christ
Click here to read 2 Corinthians 5
Discussion Questions
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In what ways can our present bodies be compared to tents (vv 1-4)?
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Although salvation may be by faith alone, does verse 10 indicate that works will also be judged?
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Are you Christ’s ambassador with the message of being reconciled to him (v 20)?
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Going Deeper From 'Words of Life'
Paul really wanted the Corinthians to think about what motivated them; what inspired them to continue in the faith and to reach out to others. It came down to this: it is only Christ’s love that truly compels us to do anything that is of worth. No matter what we face each day – things that bring joy or things that are very difficult – we are all to minister in Christ’s name, and can only do this because of God’s great love.
The primary focus for all we do is to be centred around Christ’s love for us , not our love for him. He died on the Cross for the entire human race – for you, for me. Every person is the object of God’s eternal love. Paul wanted to love others as Christ loved him. We are to do likewise. Yet how can we love as Christ loves?
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (v 17).
We are a new creation! Yes, there is still sin in the world; the forces of evil are still prevalent. Yet the battle has been won. There is victory!
Paul continues to tell the Corinthians that God has reconciled us to himself through Christ’s sacrifice, but then goes on to say that God has given us ‘the ministry of reconciliation’ (v 18). What a vital ministry this is! To let others know they can be reconciled to God and live in a relationship of trust and obedience:
We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God (v 20).
Reconciliation with God. Then to go on and be reconciled one with another. This is our mandate, our ministry as believers. Holy relationships. Relationships of love.
Prayer
Help me, Lord, to bring others to you; then to bring reconciliation, one with the other. Let it begin with me.
Beverly Ivany