THE MESSAGE OF RECONCILIATION
OCTOBER 20, 1991
II CORINTHIANS 5:11-21

INTRODUCTION

A. Time has a way of changing how we view our history

1. Healing of memories
2. Changing of attitudes towards our enemies e.g. Russia

a. More rapid changes in store: internationally, astronomically, etc.

3. Paul viewed by some as "a crazy, self-appointed peddler of heresy"

B. Paul's defense yields some of the most quoted passages in the Bible -- mem. some

I. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MOTIVES IN MINISTRY

A. Paul's old world glorified deeds and ignored motives

1. Externalization of relationship with God = religion of works

B. Jesus's concern about motives: Matthew 6:1-18

1. Not before men to get their attention
2. But before God to get His approval

C. Paul's drive to please God (vrs. 9, 11)

1. Motive for persuading men
2. Motive: the Love of God (14)

a. Focus is on God's love for us, not visa versa (I John 4:10)
b. How much and how many: "He died for all" (15)
c. Therefore, Paul would not manipulate others or exploit them

II. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE NEW REALITY IN MINISTRY (17)

A. A new potential "in Christ:" the sin principle is destroyed
B. A new reality "in Christ...

1. the old has gone,
2. the new has come"
3. the change was more than cosmetic

a. New commitment to Christ, His Body, His Work

C. A new confidence

III. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MESSAGE OF RECONCILIATION IN MINISTRY (18)

A. This is the motivation of God throughout the ages
B. This is the heart of the Good News
C. We are ambassadors of reconciliation (20)