Reconning . . . Reconciliation! (A Study of 2 Corinthians 5:16-21)

Friends: If you’re a regular reader of my blog, you know that my friend Frank (in New Jersey) and I have been doing an email Bible study for over a year. We read the same chapter every day for a week — and then send a brief email of encouragement to each other. We’ve completed most of the epistles of the New Testament — and it’s been a great discipline for both of us.

We’re now working our way through 2 Corinthians. Here’s my outline for several verses in chapter five:

Reconning . . . Reconciliation! (A Study of 2 Corinthians 5:16-21)

To “recon” means to investigate, to explore, to do surveillance on. In these verses Paul reminds us of several critical truths which ought to guide us in living for Christ right now! Notice that our reconciliation —

I. Has Changed Our View of . . . Everything! (v. 16)

II. Has Made Us a New Creation! (v. 17)

III. Has Given Us the Most Important Ministry Possible! (vv. 18-19)

IV. Has Commissioned Us to Appeal to Others to Be Reconciled to God! (v. 20)

V. Has Been Established on the Basis of Christ’s Atoning Work for Us! (v. 21)

Today’s Challenge: Are you aware that you are a “minister of reconciliation”? Your audience are those who are enemies of God because of sin and need to be brought into a place of peace with their Creator. And you — and I — get to be part of that redeeming message! Look for opportunities to engage in that ministry today!