Many of us mistakenly understand reconciliation as something the sinner must initiate, which is then worked out in stages of contrition (remorse) and confession, ultimately leading to absolution.

However, when it comes to our relationship with God, the gospel informs us that He is the initiator of reconciliation!

God reconciled us to Himself through Christ (2 Cor. 5:18). We did not.

He made peace with us, His enemies (Rom. 5:10). We did not.

He saved us from His wrath through the death of Jesus. He made Jesus who had no sin to be sin for us.
Bearing our sins on the cross.

Why? So that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again (2 Cor. 5:15).

Unsurprisingly, we who have benefited from Christ’s death are inclined to go back to living for ourselves (Phil. 2:21; 2 Tim. 4:10).

So what motivates us to live for Christ rather than ourselves? It is the awareness of the unusual nature of Christ’s love for us. “He loved me and gave himself for me.” (Gal 2:20). And all this, while we were yet sinners! (Rom. 5:8).

Consequently, those who are in Christ experience new life in the Spirit; they are part of the new creation! (2 Cor. 5:17)

God has already reconciled us to Himself in Christ, and yet, in some sense this reconciliation is incomplete. For God has given us the ministry of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18).

This message of reconciliation is still being proclaimed. And those who hear and respond positively in repentance are reconciled to God.

Let us not be mistaken. Reconciliation is not just for those outside but is just as important for those within the church. This is evident in Paul’s second letter to the church in Corinth. A church he planted.

As we consider the depths of God’s exceptional love, our hearts are filled with gratitude. This leads us to worship God.

But before we go about doing just that should we not heed the words of Jesus Himself? “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” (Matt. 5:23-24).

Let us, therefore, be reconciled one to another even as Christ’s love compels us to share the wonderful message of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:14).

Forgive as the Lord forgave. Reconcile as the Lord reconciled.

By Jason Immanuel