That God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:19).
The “ministry of reconciliation” is a profound Biblical concept, rooted in the life-changing work of God through Jesus Christ. It emphasizes the divine initiative to reconcile humanity to God. It also highlights the call upon believers to extend this reconciliation to others. This ministry is not just theological in nature but also deeply practical, encompassing evangelism, peacemaking, and forgiveness.
The Core Concept
God’s Initiative
At the heart of the ministry of reconciliation lies God’s action of bringing humanity back into a relationship with Himself. As described in 2 Corinthians 5:18-21, God reconciled the world to Himself through Jesus Christ. He did not count people’s sins against them. This act of grace and mercy is crucial. It forms the foundation of the gospel message. It offers forgiveness and a new life through faith in Christ.
Entrusted to Believers
God has entrusted the ministry of reconciliation to believers, calling them to be ambassadors for Christ. An ambassador represents their sovereign in foreign lands. In this case, believers are called to represent Christ. They do this in a world alienated from God. This responsibility involves sharing the message of reconciliation, embodying its principles, and living out the gospel in daily life.
The Gospel’s Message
The gospel itself is the message of reconciliation. It declares that through Christ’s death and resurrection, barriers between humanity and God have been removed. This makes it possible for all people to enter into a restored relationship with their Creator. This message is an invitation to forgiveness, repentance, and transformation.
The Greek word for reconciliation is “katallage.” It translates to “adjustment of a difference” or “restoration to favor.” The Hebrew word, on the other hand, is “kapar” or “kaphar,” which translates to “cover over” or “atone.”
The concept of reconciliation holds rich meanings in both Greek and Hebrew traditions. In Greek, the word “katallage” conveys the idea of an “adjustment of a difference.” It also means the “restoration to favor.” This emphasizes the resolution of discord and the re-establishment of harmony. In Hebrew, the term “kapar” or “kaphar” means “to cover over.” It also signifies “atone.” This highlights the act of making amends or seeking forgiveness to restore relationships. Together, these definitions underscore reconciliation as a profound process of healing and renewal.
Practical Application
Sharing the Message
The ministry of reconciliation begins with sharing the gospel. Believers are called to encourage others to be reconciled to God. They urge them to turn from sin. They also encourage them to accept the grace offered through Christ. This can take the form of personal conversations, teaching, preaching, or acts of service that show God’s love.
Peacemaking and Forgiveness
Beyond evangelism, the ministry involves promoting peace and reconciliation within communities. Believers are called to be peacemakers, as Jesus taught in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:9). This includes fostering unity within the church, mediating conflicts, and encouraging forgiveness among individuals.
Forgetting Past Injuries
The ministry of reconciliation invites believers to rise above personal grievances. It encourages openness to enemies, a willingness to forgive, and meekness in the face of wrongs. This reflects Christ’s example on the cross, where He prayed for the forgiveness of those who crucified Him (Luke 23:34).
Seeking Relational Repair
Reconciliation is not confined to the vertical relationship between humanity and God. It also extends horizontally to relationships among God’s children. Believers are encouraged to seek reconciliation with one another, apologizing, offering forgiveness, and working toward relational repair. This builds a community that reflects the love and unity of God.
Examples in Scripture
2 Corinthians 5:18-21
This passage is the cornerstone of the ministry of reconciliation. It highlights God’s reconciling work through Christ and the call upon believers to participate in this ministry. The text underscores the life-changing nature of reconciliation, where believers move from being enemies of God to His ambassadors.
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20)
The Great Commission aligns with the ministry of reconciliation as it calls believers to make disciples of all nations. Evangelism and discipleship are key aspects of reconciliation. They involve bringing people into a restored relationship with God. They also teach them to live according to His ways.
The Early Church in Acts
The book of Acts provides many examples of the ministry of reconciliation in action. The early church was empowered by the Holy Spirit. They spread the message of Christ’s reconciliation. They broke down barriers between Jews and Gentiles. This fostered a united community of believers.
Conclusion
The ministry of reconciliation is a divine calling that extends to all believers. Rooted in God’s initiative through Christ, it calls for active participation in sharing the gospel, promoting peace, and fostering forgiveness. By embracing this ministry, believers become ambassadors of God’s love, reflecting His character and advancing His kingdom on earth. It is a ministry that transforms lives, rebuilds communities, and reveals the heart of God to a world in need.
May the love of God shine through us, bringing hope, healing, and transformation to those around us. Amen.
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 