2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” I have heard this verse many times, but what I find interesting, is how often the rest of the chapter is ignored. Once all things have become new, what we are to do next is found in the following two verses:
“Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.” (verses 18-19).
We have the ministry, and calling of reconciling lost people back to their Creator. In the first part of 2 Corinthians, Paul compares our bodies to just being a tent, or a house, that will eventually be destroyed. We are to be His ambassadors (v.20).
A Peruvian Pastor asks, “Why do you buy a shirt? To use it. Why did Jesus redeem you and buy you with His own blood? To use you for His Kingdom.”
The goal of some Christians is to just make it through life in one piece, because they will get to Heaven regardless; at least they are saved, right? True, but they are missing some major verses in the Bible. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” (v.10)
Christians being judged according to their works? No! It can’t be! Well, there is Romans 14:10, too. And 1 Corinthians 3:14. Beyond the promise of rewards (or lack thereof), we should be motivated to reach the lost because Christ’s love compels us. (2 Cor. 5:14.) You were purchased by Jesus. How are you letting Him use you today to reach the world?
