In our current sermon series, Own the Vision, we explore the mission of our church: to make disciples for the transformation of the world. This mission is rooted in our vision to help all people discover and deepen their relationship with Jesus while sharing His love in our community and beyond. We explore the profound message of reconciliation found in 2 Corinthians 5:17-21, emphasizing our new identity in Christ and our role as His ambassadors.
What Does It Mean to Be a New Creation in Christ?
Transformation Through Christ
2 Corinthians 5:17 states, "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun." This verse encapsulates the transformation that occurs when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Our old life, marked by sin and separation from God, is replaced with a new life filled with His grace and purpose.
Examples of Transformation
The Bible is replete with stories of transformation. Paul, formerly Saul, was a persecutor of Christians until he encountered Jesus and became a pivotal figure in spreading the Gospel. Similarly, Peter, Matthew, Zacchaeus, and many others experienced radical changes in their lives after meeting Jesus. These transformations underscore the power of Christ to make us new creations.
The Ministry of Reconciliation
Understanding Reconciliation
Verses 18-19 of 2 Corinthians 5 highlight our task as Christians: "And all this is a gift from God, who brought us back to Himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to Him." Reconciliation involves restoring our relationship with God, which was broken by sin. Through Jesus' sacrifice, we are reconciled to God and entrusted with the message of reconciliation.
Bringing People into Friendship with Jesus
Dr. Skinner, my seminary professor, simplified the ministry of reconciliation as "bringing people into friendship with Jesus." This task involves sharing the love and hope of Christ with others, helping them understand that they are worthy of God's grace and can be reconciled to Him through Jesus.
Our Role as Ambassadors for Christ
Representing God on Earth
Verse 20 of 2 Corinthians 5 calls us to be ambassadors for Christ: "So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making His appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, 'Come back to God!'" As ambassadors, we represent God's kingdom on earth, embodying His love and grace in our interactions with others.
Living Out Our New Identity
Being an ambassador for Christ is not just about speaking; it’s about living a life that reflects His message. Our actions, words, and attitudes should demonstrate the transformation that has occurred in us. By living out our new identity, we can effectively share the message of reconciliation with those around us.
The Great Exchange: Christ's Righteousness for Our Sin
The Concept of Imputation
Verse 21 explains the great exchange: "For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ." This theological concept, imputation, means that our sins were placed on Christ, and His righteousness was credited to us. This exchange changes our identity and purpose, encouraging us to live out God's righteousness daily.
Embracing Our New Identity
As new creations in Christ, we are called to embrace our identity and live in a way that honors God. This involves surrendering our lives to Jesus and allowing His Spirit to guide our actions and decisions. By doing so, we can effectively represent Christ and share His love with others.
Life Application
Living as Ambassadors for Christ
This week, challenge yourself to live as an ambassador for Christ. Reflect on how you can represent God in your daily interactions and share the message of reconciliation with those around you.
Consider the following questions:
1. How can I demonstrate the love and grace of Christ in my relationships?
2. In what ways can I actively share the message of reconciliation with others?
3. Am I living in a way that reflects my new identity in Christ?
Conclusion
Embrace your identity as a follower of Christ and take seriously the message of reconciliation. Live out the new life that Christ has given you and share His love with your community and beyond. By doing so, you can help others discover and deepen their relationship with Jesus, transforming the world one person at a time.
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