Ministry of Reconciliation

2 Cor. 5: 18, 19 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.

The heart of God is about restoring/reconciling people to Himself and to one another.  How does a Holy God go about reconciling with all of us who have trespassed?

The word “imputing” is an interesting word which carries with it a couple of insights as to His process in reconciling man.  One meaning means to “reckon” or think of or speak of their condition; rather He thinks and speaks of their intended purpose, to be His children.  Another deals with taking or keeping an inventory of trespasses/transgressions. Man isn’t seen in context of a specific transgression (even though there are specific ones mentioned that disqualify us from living in eternity with Him), a pre-Christ person is seen simply as a transgressor.  He doesn’t keep an inventory of every time we blow it.  If so, my list is several volumes.

He appeals to me on the basis of my destiny in Him, not on my past.  It’s His goodness that leads me to repentance.  The Creator of the universe desires to have relationship with “me”!  WOW!!!

Since Christ’s ministry of “reconciliation” isn’t based on “imputing” transgressions toward me, our “ministry of reconciliation” ought ours be the same toward others  I’m not talking about permitting or endorsing lifestyles counter to Kingdom lifestyles.  What I am suggesting is that we see the redemptive potential and possibilities in people.

Let’s resist imputing anything except the unconditional love, acceptance and forgiveness of God.