Today you should read: 2 Corinthians 5:11-21
In this passage we see Paul offering a description of the motivation, the content, and the calling that we as believers have. We are all called to the same purpose. To love the Lord with all our hearts, soul, and mind, and to make His name famous throughout the world.
Paul first describes the Motivation for this purpose in verses 11-13. We as believers should have a proper fear of the Lord. This is not the idea of wanting to hide under the covers in terror of what is under the bed. Rather, this is the reality that we know who God is and how powerful and amazing He is. We recognize that He has ultimate authority over all things. When we see God in the proper light we are motivated to serve Him. Suddenly we are less interested in us and more interested in God. Verse 13—“For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God..”
Then we see the Content that there is in verses 14-17. Contentment is only found when we understand who Jesus is, and the significance of that. Verse 14—“for the love of Christ controls us…” There is immense freedom and contentment in surrendering control to the one who is in control. It is like trying to swim up a waterfall when we are resisting God. We get nowhere and we are beaten down and exhausted by our circumstances. Verse 17 talks about us as new creations! We can rest in and be content with what Jesus has done in us and what He will continue to do through us.
This is where we see the Call in verses 18-21. We are called to the ministry of reconciliation. Simply put, we are called to share the good news of Christ. We are ambassadors (v. 20). We are beacons of Christ’s righteousness, and we have the responsibility of making His name famous.
By: Dakota Gragg — Student Ministry Associate
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