In the journey of faith, it’s not uncommon to discover surprising truths about ourselves and our relationship with God. The verses from Colossians 1:21 and 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 shed light on the profound reality of reconciliation through Christ. Let’s explore how this revelation transforms our understanding of our purpose and mission as believers.
Understanding Our Former State
Reflecting on Colossians 1:21, many of us, like the writer, may have experienced a moment of profound realization—that prior to salvation, we stood as enemies of God, separated by our sinful nature. Despite perhaps being raised in a Christian environment, the understanding of this truth came as a revelation. It’s a humbling recognition that our status as children of God stems not from lineage or upbringing but from the redemptive work of Christ.
Commissioned with a Ministry:
The verses from 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 unveil a pivotal aspect of our newfound identity in Christ: we are not only reconciled to God but also entrusted with the ministry of reconciliation. This ministry is a divine invitation to participate in God’s grand plan of restoring humanity to Himself. Through Christ, we are empowered to bridge the gap caused by sin, proclaiming the message of salvation and forgiveness to all.
The Power of the Gospel:
The gospel, as reiterated in the Scriptures, is the ultimate good news—the very power of God unto salvation. It’s a message of hope and redemption, capable of transforming lives and renewing spirits. Our role as ambassadors of Christ is to share this life-changing message with boldness and conviction, knowing that it holds the key to eternal reconciliation with God.
Embracing the Mission:
Christ’s Great Commission compels us to go forth and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This commandment isn’t just for a select few but for every believer, urging us to seize every opportunity to share the love and mercy of God with those around us. Whether it’s within our families, communities, or beyond, we are called to be conduits of God’s grace, extending His invitation of reconciliation to all.
Conclusion:
As we embrace our identity as reconciled children of God, let us also embrace our commission as ministers of reconciliation. May we be bold and steadfast in proclaiming the gospel, knowing that through Christ, we have the power to reconcile the world to God. Let us seize every opportunity to share the love of Christ and extend His invitation of reconciliation to all. Amen.
