2 Corinthians 5:20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
Paul further explains the last thought of v. 19 about being the messengers of this good news of reconciliation. We as believers who have experienced God’s reconciliation function as ambassadors for Christ. An ambassador is a representative of someone important, such as a king, government, or nation. We represent the King of kings and Lord of lords.
God makes his appeal through us. We are the voice, hands, and feet of God. People may not hear of this message unless we share it with them. It is easy to read this and feel intimidated. This type of idea scares many of us. Fear is a natural response to the ridicule and rejection people may give to us because of our faith in Christ. We think that we cannot speak publicly, be a preacher or an evangelist. An ambassador comes with the power and authority of the messenger. This should help relieve some fear we have. Sharing this message of reconciliation does not happen simply by “preaching,” but more significantly in how we live as salt and light in this world. Our actions will speak louder than our words, but at some point, our words must be spoken also.
Paul and his companions (the “we”) give themselves as a example of being ambassadors. They make an appeal to the Corinthians. There may be some who had not put their full faith in Christ. Paul was ever the evangelist, taking any opportunity he could to share the gospel of Jesus. Paul does not simply make a polite request here but “begs,” “implores,” and “pleads” that the Corinthians will listen and turn to Christ. The stakes are of the utmost price and they need to put their assurance in eternal hope.
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