When we first put our trust in Christ we are reconciled to God. Without Christ's intervention and our faith in Him, we were enemies of God because we refused to submit to Him. We were therefore liable to His wrath and could have no peace with Him (Ephesians 2:12). But when we admitted our rebellion, repented and believed in the Lord Jesus' sacrifice for our sins – we became a 'new creation' (2 Corinthians 5:17). The Lord gives us the desire and ability to relate with Him, by the help of the Holy Spirit who comes to live within us. None of that is through our effort but by God's grace (Colossians 1:21-23).

God's purpose is not just that we should be reconciled to Him, but also that we should work with Him in bringing more people to be reconciled to Him. The ministry of reconciliation is a God-given responsibility, announcing to other people the gospel message; telling how to be reconciled to God, through believing in the atoning sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. We are ambassadors of heaven – representing the King of heaven.

It is an awesome privilege to tell the world (starting with the people among whom we live and work) that God loves them so much that He has sacrificed His only Son to wipe out the guilt of all their sins, and give them a new start (John 3:16). Although reconciliation-ministry is not primarily one of loving care and godly lifestyle, all who are reconciled to God should express their 'new-creation' life in such ways. Their new lifestyle will make the gospel message more attractive and compelling (Titus 2:10).

However, like the dysfunctional church in Corinth, we may find that there are some parts of our lifestyle that are not yet fully submitted to the Lord. Paul's command to them is also a word of instruction to us. It does not matter how many years we claim to have followed Jesus - where a part of our life is not consistent with His Word, is rebellious or disobedient (even in ignorance) – be reconciled to God. David prayed that the Lord would reveal his heart and expose what was offensive to Him: "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." It is a good prayer to pray. When we are reconciled, we can properly glorify Him and bring blessing to others.