CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Corinthians 5:20 Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_corinthians/5-20.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/9/47_2Co_05_20.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Corinthians 5:20 - Ambassadors for Christ" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_corinthians/5-20.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_corinthians/5-20.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/">2 Corinthians</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/5.htm">Chapter 5</a> > Verse 20</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad20.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-19.htm" title="2 Corinthians 5:19">◄</a> 2 Corinthians 5:20 <a href="/2_corinthians/5-21.htm" title="2 Corinthians 5:21">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/5.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/5.htm">New International Version</a> We are therefore Christ&#8217s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ&#8217s behalf: Be reconciled to God. <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/5.htm">New Living Translation</a> So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/5.htm">English Standard Version</a> Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. <a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God. <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God is beseeching through us. We implore on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God. <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/5.htm">King James Bible</a> Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. <a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/5.htm">New King James Version</a> Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. <a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/5.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/5.htm">NASB 1995</a> Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. <a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/5.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were entreating through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. <a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> So then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as God is pleading through us. We beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. <a href="/amp/2_corinthians/5.htm">Amplified Bible</a> So we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us; we [as Christ’s representatives] plead with you on behalf of Christ to be reconciled to God. <a href="/csb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us. We plead on Christ’s behalf, “Be reconciled to God.” <a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, certain that God is appealing through us. We plead on Christ&#8217s behalf, &#8220Be reconciled to God.&#8221 <a href="/asv/2_corinthians/5.htm">American Standard Version</a> We are ambassadors therefore on behalf of Christ, as though God were entreating by us: we beseech you on behalf of Christ, be ye reconciled to God. <a href="/cev/2_corinthians/5.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> We were sent to speak for Christ, and God is begging you to listen to our message. We speak for Christ and sincerely ask you to make peace with God. <a href="/erv/2_corinthians/5.htm">English Revised Version</a> We are ambassadors therefore on behalf of Christ, as though God were entreating by us: we beseech you on behalf of Christ, be ye reconciled to God. <a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/5.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Therefore, we are Christ's representatives, and through us God is calling you. We beg you on behalf of Christ to become reunited with God. <a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/5.htm">Good News Translation</a> Here we are, then, speaking for Christ, as though God himself were making his appeal through us. We plead on Christ's behalf: let God change you from enemies into his friends! <a href="/isv/2_corinthians/5.htm">International Standard Version</a> Therefore, we are the Messiah's representatives, as though God were pleading through us. We plead on the Messiah's behalf: "Be reconciled to God!" <a href="/msb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God. <a href="/net/2_corinthians/5.htm">NET Bible</a> Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His plea through us. We plead with you on Christ's behalf, "Be reconciled to God!" <a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/5.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> We are therefore ambassadors on behalf of Christ, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. <a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/5.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Now then we are embassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/5.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> On Christ's behalf therefore we come as ambassadors, God, as it were, making entreaty through our lips: we, on Christ's behalf, beseech men to be reconciled to God. <a href="/web/2_corinthians/5.htm">World English Bible</a> We are therefore ambassadors on behalf of Christ, as though God were entreating by us: we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/5.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> in behalf of Christ, then, we are ambassadors, as if God were calling through us, we implore, in behalf of Christ, “Be reconciled to God”; <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God is beseeching through us. We implore on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God. <a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/5.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> in behalf of Christ, then, we are ambassadors, as if God were calling through us, we beseech, in behalf of Christ, 'Be ye reconciled to God;' <a href="/slt/2_corinthians/5.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For Christ therefore are we ambassadors, as of God beseeching by us: we pray for the sake of Christ, be ye reconciled to God.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For Christ therefore we are ambassadors, God as it were exhorting by us. For Christ, we beseech you, be reconciled to God. <a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/5.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, so that God is exhorting through us. We beseech you for Christ: be reconciled to God. <a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/5.htm">New American Bible</a> So we are ambassadors for Christ, as if God were appealing through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. <a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/5.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/5.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we beseech you for Christ; be reconciled to God. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/5.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> We are Ambassadors therefore in the place of The Messiah, and as if he who is God requested of you by us in the place of The Messiah, we beseech you therefore: “Be reconciled to God.”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/5.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Therefore, we act as ambassadors for Christ, as though God entreated through us; we beseech in Christ's stead, be reconciled to God: <a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/5.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> Therefore we are embassadors in behalf of Christ, as God is intreating you through us; we pray you in behalf of Christ, be ye reconciled to God. <a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/5.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God exhorted you by us; we entreat you for Christ?s sake, be ye reconciled to God. <a href="/mace/2_corinthians/5.htm">Mace New Testament</a> we then are ambassadors for Christ, and 'tis God who makes you the offers by us: we pray you in the name of Christ, to make your peace with God. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/5.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> On Christ's behalf therefore we come as ambassadors, God, as it were, making entreaty through our lips: we, on Christ's behalf, beseech men to be reconciled to God. <a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/5.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> On behalf of Christ, therefore, we are ambassadors, as though God were beseeching through us, we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be ye reconciled to God <a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/5.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> We are therefore ambassadors for Christ, and as God exhorteth you by us, we intreat you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. <a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddheG4hMg28?start=932" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Ambassadors for Christ</a> …19that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s trespasses against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20<a href="/greek/3767.htm" title="3767: oun (Conj) -- Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly.">Therefore</a> <a href="/greek/4243.htm" title="4243: presbeuomen (V-PIA-1P) -- To be aged, act as an ambassador. From the base of presbuteros; to be a senior, i.e. act as a representative.">we are ambassadors</a> <a href="/greek/5228.htm" title="5228: Hyper (Prep) -- Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. ">for</a> <a href="/greek/5547.htm" title="5547: Christou (N-GMS) -- Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.">Christ,</a> <a href="/greek/5613.htm" title="5613: hōs (Adv) -- Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner.">as though</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God</a> <a href="/greek/3870.htm" title="3870: parakalountos (V-PPA-GMS) -- From para and kaleo; to call near, i.e. Invite, invoke.">were making His appeal</a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: di’ (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.">through</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: hēmōn (PPro-G1P) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">us.</a> <a href="/greek/1189.htm" title="1189: deometha (V-PIM/P-1P) -- To want for myself; I want, need; I beg, request, beseech, pray. Middle voice of deo; to beg, i.e. Petition.">We implore you</a> <a href="/greek/5228.htm" title="5228: hyper (Prep) -- Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. ">on behalf</a> <a href="/greek/5547.htm" title="5547: Christou (N-GMS) -- Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.">of Christ:</a> <a href="/greek/2644.htm" title="2644: katallagēte (V-AMP-2P) -- To change, exchange, reconcile. From kata and allasso; to change mutually, i.e. to compound a difference.">Be reconciled</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tō (Art-DMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theō (N-DMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">to God.</a> 21God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/28-19.htm">Matthew 28:19-20</a> Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, / and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” <a href="/romans/5-10.htm">Romans 5:10</a> For if, when we were enemies of God, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through His life! <a href="/ephesians/6-20.htm">Ephesians 6:20</a> for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it fearlessly, as I should. <a href="/colossians/1-20.htm">Colossians 1:20-21</a> and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through the blood of His cross. / Once you were alienated from God and were hostile in your minds, engaging in evil deeds. <a href="/romans/10-14.htm">Romans 10:14-15</a> How then can they call on the One in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach? / And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” <a href="/john/20-21.htm">John 20:21</a> Again Jesus said to them, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you.” <a href="/1_timothy/2-5.htm">1 Timothy 2:5-6</a> For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, / who gave Himself as a ransom for all—the testimony that was given at just the right time. <a href="/acts/1-8.htm">Acts 1:8</a> But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” <a href="/1_peter/2-9.htm">1 Peter 2:9</a> But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. <a href="/philippians/3-20.htm">Philippians 3:20</a> But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, <a href="/isaiah/1-18.htm">Isaiah 1:18</a> “Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are as red as crimson, they will become like wool. <a href="/isaiah/55-6.htm">Isaiah 55:6-7</a> Seek the LORD while He may be found; call on Him while He is near. / Let the wicked man forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD, that He may have compassion, and to our God, for He will freely pardon. <a href="/ezekiel/18-30.htm">Ezekiel 18:30-32</a> Therefore, O house of Israel, I will judge you, each according to his ways, declares the Lord GOD. Repent and turn from all your transgressions, so that your iniquity will not become your downfall. / Cast away from yourselves all the transgressions you have committed, and fashion for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. Why should you die, O house of Israel? / For I take no pleasure in anyone’s death, declares the Lord GOD. So repent and live! <a href="/jeremiah/3-12.htm">Jeremiah 3:12-14</a> Go, proclaim this message toward the north: ‘Return, O faithless Israel,’ declares the LORD. ‘I will no longer look on you with anger, for I am merciful,’ declares the LORD. ‘I will not be angry forever. / Only acknowledge your guilt, that you have rebelled against the LORD your God. You have scattered your favors to foreign gods under every green tree and have not obeyed My voice,’” declares the LORD. / “Return, O faithless children,” declares the LORD, “for I am your master, and I will take you—one from a city and two from a family—and bring you to Zion. <a href="/isaiah/61-1.htm">Isaiah 61:1-2</a> The Spirit of the Lord GOD is on Me, because the LORD has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and freedom to the prisoners, / to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor and the day of our God’s vengeance, to comfort all who mourn,</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be you reconciled to God.ambassadors.<a href="/2_corinthians/3-6.htm">2 Corinthians 3:6</a> Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.<a href="/job/33-23.htm">Job 33:23</a> If there be a messenger with him, an interpreter, one among a thousand, to shew unto man his uprightness:<a href="/proverbs/13-17.htm">Proverbs 13:17</a> A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.as.<a href="/2_corinthians/5-11.htm">2 Corinthians 5:11</a> Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.<a href="/2_corinthians/6-1.htm">2 Corinthians 6:1</a> We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.<a href="/2_kings/17-13.htm">2 Kings 17:13</a> Yet the LORD testified against Israel, and against Judah, by all the prophets, and by all the seers, saying, Turn ye from your evil ways, and keep my commandments and my statutes, according to all the law which I commanded your fathers, and which I sent to you by my servants the prophets.in.<a href="/job/33-6.htm">Job 33:6</a> Behold, I am according to thy wish in God's stead: I also am formed out of the clay.<a href="/luke/10-16.htm">Luke 10:16</a> He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me.<a href="/1_corinthians/4-4.htm">1 Corinthians 4:4,5</a> For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord… be.<a href="/job/22-21.htm">Job 22:21</a> Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee.<a href="/proverbs/1-22.htm">Proverbs 1:22</a> How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?<a href="/isaiah/27-5.htm">Isaiah 27:5</a> Or let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/ezekiel/17-15.htm">Ambassadors</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-23.htm">Appeal</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-8.htm">Beg</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-15.htm">Behalf</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-8.htm">Beseech</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-19.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-14.htm">Christ's</a> <a href="/ezekiel/17-15.htm">Embassadors</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/16-15.htm">Entreat</a> <a href="/romans/1-10.htm">Entreating</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-11.htm">Entreaty</a> <a href="/romans/10-10.htm">Lips</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-19.htm">Making</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-18.htm">Reconciled</a> <a href="/luke/20-20.htm">Representatives</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/16-15.htm">Request</a> <a href="/daniel/8-8.htm">Stead</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/joshua/9-4.htm">Ambassadors</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-17.htm">Appeal</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-2.htm">Beg</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-21.htm">Behalf</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-1.htm">Beseech</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-15.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-7.htm">Christ's</a> <a href="/joshua/9-4.htm">Embassadors</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-1.htm">Entreat</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-1.htm">Entreating</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">Entreaty</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-11.htm">Lips</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">Making</a> <a href="/colossians/1-21.htm">Reconciled</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-23.htm">Representatives</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-1.htm">Request</a> <a href="/colossians/1-7.htm">Stead</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 5</div>1. <a href="/2_corinthians/5-1.htm">That in his assured hope of immortal glory,</a> 9. <a href="/2_corinthians/5-9.htm">and in expectation of it, he labors to keep a good conscience;</a> 12. <a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">not that he may boast of himself,</a> 14. <a href="/2_corinthians/5-14.htm">but as one that, having received life from Christ, </a> 17. <a href="/2_corinthians/5-17.htm">endeavors to live as a new creature to Christ only,</a> 18. <a href="/2_corinthians/5-18.htm">and by his ministry of reconciliation, to reconcile others also in Christ to God.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/5.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_corinthians/5.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ In the Roman world, ambassadors were official representatives sent by a sovereign to convey messages and negotiate on behalf of their ruler. Paul uses this imagery to describe the role of Christians, emphasizing their duty to represent Christ's kingdom on earth. This aligns with the Great Commission (<a href="/matthew/28-19.htm">Matthew 28:19-20</a>), where believers are tasked with spreading the gospel. The term "ambassador" implies authority and responsibility, suggesting that Christians are entrusted with the message of reconciliation and are to live in a way that reflects Christ's character.as though God were making His appeal through us This phrase highlights the divine partnership in the ministry of reconciliation. God uses believers as instruments to communicate His message of salvation. This concept is rooted in the idea that God works through human agency, as seen throughout Scripture, such as in the prophets of the Old Testament (<a href="/jeremiah/1-9.htm">Jeremiah 1:9</a>). It underscores the seriousness and sacredness of the task, as believers are not merely sharing their own message but are conduits for God's appeal to humanity.We implore you on behalf of Christ The word "implore" conveys a sense of urgency and earnestness. Paul is not merely suggesting or advising; he is pleading with the Corinthians to respond to the gospel. This reflects the heart of Christ, who desires all to come to repentance (<a href="/2_peter/3-9.htm">2 Peter 3:9</a>). Acting "on behalf of Christ" indicates that Paul and his companions are acting as Christ's representatives, emphasizing the authority and importance of their message.Be reconciled to God Reconciliation is a central theme in Paul's writings, referring to the restoration of the broken relationship between humanity and God due to sin. This echoes the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, where atonement was made for sin, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ (<a href="/hebrews/9-11.htm">Hebrews 9:11-14</a>). The call to "be reconciled" is an invitation to accept the work of Christ on the cross, which has made peace with God possible (<a href="/romans/5-10.htm">Romans 5:10</a>). It is both a command and an offer of grace, urging individuals to accept the salvation freely given through Jesus.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of 2 Corinthians, writing to the church in Corinth. Paul is emphasizing his role and the role of believers as representatives of Christ. 2. <a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a> A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and moral challenges. The church in Corinth faced various issues, including divisions and misunderstandings about the gospel. 3. <a href="/topical/c/christ.htm">Christ</a> Central to the message, Jesus Christ is the one whom believers represent as ambassadors. His life, death, and resurrection are the foundation of the reconciliation message. 4. <a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a> The one making the appeal through believers, emphasizing the divine initiative in the reconciliation process. 5. <a href="/topical/r/reconciliation.htm">Reconciliation</a> The event and process of restoring the relationship between God and humanity, made possible through Christ.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/a/ambassadors_for_christ.htm">Ambassadors for Christ</a> As believers, we are called to represent Christ in our daily lives. This involves living in a way that reflects His teachings and character. <a href="/topical/g/god's_appeal_through_us.htm">God's Appeal Through Us</a> Recognize that God uses us as His instruments to reach others. Our words and actions should align with His message of love and reconciliation. <a href="/topical/t/the_urgency_of_reconciliation.htm">The Urgency of Reconciliation</a> The call to "be reconciled to God" is urgent. We should actively seek to restore our relationship with God and encourage others to do the same. <a href="/topical/l/living_the_message.htm">Living the Message</a> Our lives should be a testament to the transformative power of the gospel. This means embodying the values of the kingdom in all aspects of life. <a href="/topical/p/prayerful_dependence.htm">Prayerful Dependence</a> As ambassadors, we must rely on prayer and the Holy Spirit to guide us in our mission, ensuring that our efforts are aligned with God's will.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_corinthians_5.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Corinthians 5</a> <a href="/q/what_is_ministry.htm">What is ministry?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'post-christian'_mean.htm">What does "post-Christian" mean?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'vicar_of_christ'_mean.htm">What does "Vicar of Christ" mean?</a> <a href="/q/what_entails_being_christ's_ambassador.htm">What does being Christ's ambassador entail?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/5.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(20) Now then we are ambassadors for Christ--The preposition "for" implies the same representative character as in <a href="/context/2_corinthians/5-14.htm" title="For the love of Christ constrains us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:">2Corinthians 5:14-15</a>. The preachers of the Word were acting on behalf of Christ; they were acting also in His stead. The thought or word meets us again in <a href="/ephesians/6-20.htm" title="For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.">Ephesians 6:20</a>. "I am an ambassador in bonds." The earlier versions (Tyndale, Geneva, Cranmer) give "messengers," the Rhemish "legates." "Ambassadors," which may be noted as singularly felicitous, first appears in the version of 1611. The word, derived from the mediaeval Latin ambasciator, and first becoming popular in the Romance languages, is found in Shakespeare, and appears to have come into prominence through the intercourse with France and Spain in the reign of Elizabeth.We pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.--It will be seen, in this conclusion of the language of St. Paul as to the atonement, how entirely, on the one hand, he recognises the representative and vicarious character of the redeeming work of Christ; how entirely, on the other, he stands aloof from the speculative theories on that work which have sometimes been built upon his teaching. He does not present, as the system-builders of theology have too often done, the picture of the wrath of the Father averted by the compassion of the Son, or satisfied by the infliction upon Him of a penalty which is a quantitative equivalent for that due to the sins of mankind. The whole work, from his point of view, originates in the love of the Father, sending His Son to manifest that love in its highest and noblest form. He does not need to be reconciled to man. He sends His Son, and His Son sends His ministers to entreat them to be reconciled to Him, to accept the pardon which is freely offered. In the background there lies the thought that the death of Christ was in some way, as the highest act of Divine love, connected with the work of reconciliation; but the mode in which it was effective, is, as Butler says (Analogy, 2:5), "mysterious, and left, in part at least, unrevealed," and it is not wise to "endeavour to explain the efficacy of what Christ has done and suffered for us beyond what the Scripture has authorised."<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/5.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 20. - Now then. It is, then, on Christ's behalf that we are ambassadors. This excludes all secondary aims. St. Paul uses the same expression in <a href="/ephesians/6-20.htm">Ephesians 6:20</a>, adding with fine contrast that he is "an ambassador in fetters." As though God did beseech you by us; rather, as if God were exhorting you by our means. In Christ's stead; rather, we, on Christ's behalf, beseech you. Be ye reconciled to God. This is the sense of the embassy. The aorist implies an immediate acceptance of the offer of reconciliation. <a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Therefore οὖν (oun) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3767.htm">Strong's 3767: </a> Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly. we are ambassadors πρεσβεύομεν (presbeuomen) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4243.htm">Strong's 4243: </a> To be aged, act as an ambassador. From the base of presbuteros; to be a senior, i.e. act as a representative. for Ὑπὲρ (Hyper) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_5228.htm">Strong's 5228: </a> Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. Christ, Χριστοῦ (Christou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5547.htm">Strong's 5547: </a> Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. as though ὡς (hōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_5613.htm">Strong's 5613: </a> Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner. God Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. were making His appeal παρακαλοῦντος (parakalountos) Verb - Present Participle Active - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3870.htm">Strong's 3870: </a> From para and kaleo; to call near, i.e. Invite, invoke. through δι’ (di’) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1223.htm">Strong's 1223: </a> A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through. us. ἡμῶν (hēmōn) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. We implore you δεόμεθα (deometha) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1189.htm">Strong's 1189: </a> To want for myself; I want, need; I beg, request, beseech, pray. Middle voice of deo; to beg, i.e. Petition. on behalf ὑπὲρ (hyper) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_5228.htm">Strong's 5228: </a> Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. of Christ: Χριστοῦ (Christou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5547.htm">Strong's 5547: </a> Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. Be reconciled καταλλάγητε (katallagēte) Verb - Aorist Imperative Passive - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2644.htm">Strong's 2644: </a> To change, exchange, reconcile. From kata and allasso; to change mutually, i.e. to compound a difference. to God. Θεῷ (Theō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">2 Corinthians 5:20 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 5:20 We are therefore ambassadors on behalf (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-19.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 5:19"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 5:19" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-21.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 5:21"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 5:21" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>