2 Corinthians 5:20 – “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.”

Extended Explanation

Paul is explaining that believers have a responsibility—they are ambassadors for Christ. An ambassador is someone who represents a country or leader in a foreign place. They don’t speak their own opinions; they deliver the official message of the one they represent. In the same way, Christians represent Jesus and His message of reconciliation to the world.

Paul also says, “as though God were making His appeal through us.” This means that when believers share the gospel, it is God speaking through them. He is using His people to call others into a restored relationship with Him.

Then Paul makes a passionate statement: “We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.” The word “implore” means to beg, plead, or urge with great seriousness. Paul is not just casually inviting people to consider Jesus—he is urgently calling them to turn back to God because their eternal destiny is at stake.

This verse is a powerful reminder that Christians are not just saved for themselves—they are given a mission to help others come to know God.

Historical Context

Paul wrote this letter to the Corinthians, a church in a wealthy but sinful city. Many of them had come from pagan backgrounds and were still struggling with worldly thinking and sinful habits. Paul wanted them to understand that they had been saved for a purpose—to bring others into reconciliation with God.

In the Roman Empire, ambassadors were official representatives of the emperor. When an ambassador spoke, it was as if the emperor himself were speaking. Paul uses this imagery to show that when Christians share the gospel, they are speaking on behalf of the King of Kings—Jesus Christ.

At that time, people were used to the idea of needing a mediator to communicate with kings or high officials. Paul makes it clear that believers are now the mediators between a lost world and God’s kingdom.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights some essential truths:

1. Believers are called to be ambassadors for Christ – They are representatives of God’s kingdom on earth.
2. God reaches others through His people – He speaks His message through those who share the gospel.
3. Salvation is urgent – Paul’s language shows that this is a life-and-death matter.
4. God desires reconciliation, not judgment – His message to the world is an invitation to be restored to Him.

This verse shows that Christianity is not just about personal faith—it is about spreading the message of salvation to others.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording in this verse is strong and urgent:

• “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors” – This is a statement of identity and responsibility.
• “As though God were making his appeal through us” – Paul emphasizes that sharing the gospel is not just a human effort—it is God speaking through believers.
• “We implore you” – The word implore conveys deep urgency and passion. Paul is not just suggesting reconciliation with God—he is pleading for it.
• “Be reconciled to God” – This phrase is a direct call to action. It is an invitation that requires a response.

Paul’s choice of words makes it clear that this is not a small issue—it is the central mission of every believer.

Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Jesus commands His followers to spread the gospel.
• Romans 10:14-15 – “How can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” People need messengers to bring them the good news.
• Ephesians 6:20 – Paul calls himself “an ambassador in chains,” showing that even imprisonment did not stop him from sharing the gospel.
• 1 Peter 2:9 – “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood… that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” Believers are called to proclaim God’s truth.
• Luke 14:23 – Jesus tells a parable where a master sends out his servants to urgently invite people to a great banquet, symbolizing God’s invitation to salvation.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse is a wake-up call for Christians. If you are a believer, you are an ambassador for Christ. That means:

1. Your life should reflect Christ – An ambassador must represent their leader well. The way you live should point people to Jesus, not away from Him.
2. You have a responsibility to share the gospel – This is not just for pastors or missionaries. Every Christian is called to tell others about Jesus.
3. The message is urgent – Paul implores people to be reconciled to God. Sharing the gospel is not just a suggestion—it is a life-saving mission.
4. You are not alone in this work – God is the one making His appeal through you. When you share Christ, God is speaking through you.

Many people today see faith as a private matter, but Paul teaches that Christianity is meant to be shared. If people don’t hear the message of reconciliation, they will remain separated from God.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse shows that God’s love is active and persistent.

• God does not stay distant – He sends His people to plead with the world to come back to Him.
• God does not force reconciliation – He invites people to return to Him, but they must choose to accept.
• God’s love is urgent – Paul’s strong language shows that salvation is not something to delay—God wants people to be reconciled now.

This verse paints a picture of a loving God who longs to restore broken relationships. Instead of leaving people in their sin, He calls out to them through His messengers.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is at the center of this verse because He is the reason reconciliation is possible.

• He is the one believers represent – As ambassadors, Christians speak on Christ’s behalf.
• He is the message – The gospel is all about Jesus—His death and resurrection.
• He is the one who brings people back to God – Without Him, there is no reconciliation.

This verse reminds believers that their mission is not about personal opinions or religious traditions—it is about sharing the life-saving truth of Jesus Christ.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does it change your perspective to know that you are Christ’s ambassador?
2. In what ways can you be more active in sharing the gospel with those around you?
3. Do you feel the same urgency Paul expresses in this verse? If not, why?
4. How does knowing that God speaks through you when you share Christ encourage you?
5. Who in your life needs to hear this message of reconciliation? How can you share it with them?

This verse is a powerful reminder that Christians are called to be more than just believers—they are called to be messengers. As ambassadors for Christ, they are meant to proclaim the good news and invite others to be reconciled to God.