2 corinthians 5:20 - We are therefore ambassadors on behalf of Christ, as though God were entreating by us: we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

Generated Verse: 2 corinthians 5:20

What does "2 corinthians 5:20" mean?


This verse, 2 Corinthians 5:20, is a powerful statement about the role of Christians in the world. Let's break it down phrase by phrase:

"We are therefore ambassadors on behalf of Christ..." This is the core idea. An ambassador is an official representative of a country or leader, sent to another country or group to represent their interests and communicate their message. Paul (the author of 2 Corinthians) is saying that Christians, because of their faith in Christ, are ambassadors representing Christ and his kingdom on Earth. They act in Christ's stead.

"...as though God were entreating by us..." This emphasizes the weight and authority of the ambassadorial role. It's not just Paul's own message, but it's as if God himself is making the appeal through them. "Entreating" suggests an urgent, heartfelt plea, as if God is earnestly urging people through his followers.

"...we beg you on behalf of Christ..." Paul underscores the personal and urgent nature of the message. The word "beg" shows sincerity and a sense of importance. They are not just informing people but urgently requesting something from them. "On behalf of Christ" further reinforces that their message isn't their own, but Christ's.

"...be reconciled to God." This is the substance of the message and the ultimate goal. "Reconciled" means to restore friendly relations; to resolve a conflict. Sin has created a separation and hostility between humanity and God. The message is that people should turn from their sin and accept God's offer of forgiveness, thereby restoring their relationship with him.

In summary, the verse means:

Christians have been appointed by Christ to represent him and his message to the world. This is not just a suggestion, but a serious appointment by Christ to call the world to reconciliation with God. With Christ’s authority, Christians make an urgent and heartfelt plea to people everywhere to put aside their hostility toward God and accept his offer of forgiveness and friendship, thus healing the broken relationship caused by sin.

Key Implications:

Responsibility: Christians have a responsibility to communicate the message of reconciliation.
Authority: Their message has authority because it comes from Christ.
Urgency: The message should be delivered with urgency and passion.
Reconciliation: The ultimate goal is to bring people into a restored relationship with God.

This verse is a call to action for Christians, urging them to embrace their role as ambassadors and passionately share the message of reconciliation with the world.