2 Corinthians 5:20

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now then {G3767} we are ambassadors {G4243} for {G5228} Christ {G5547}, as though {G5613} God {G2316} did beseech {G3870} you by {G1223} us {G2257}: we pray {G1189} you in {G5228} Christ's {G5547} stead {G5228}, be ye reconciled {G2644} to God {G2316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore we are ambassadors of the Messiah; in effect, God is making his appeal through us. What we do is appeal on behalf of the Messiah, “Be reconciled to God!

Berean Standard Bible

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.

American Standard Version

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Corinthians 5:20 powerfully articulates the profound identity and urgent mission of every believer in Christ. Paul casts Christians as official representatives of God, entrusted with the divine message of reconciliation to a world estranged by sin. This verse highlights the divine initiative in redemption, portraying God Himself as pleading through His people for humanity to return to a right relationship with Him, a relationship made possible solely through the atoning work of Jesus Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This pivotal verse is situated within a profound theological exposition in [2 Corinthians 5](/2_corinthians/5 "2 Corinthians 5 - The Ministry of Reconciliation"). Paul begins the chapter by contrasting the temporary earthly tent with the eternal heavenly dwelling, emphasizing the believer's longing for glorification and the motivation of pleasing the Lord ([2 Corinthians 5:1-9](/2_corinthians/5-1-9 "2 Corinthians 5:1-9 - Earthly Tent, Heavenly Dwelling")). He then transitions to the eschatological reality of appearing before the judgment seat of Christ ([2 Corinthians 5:10](/2_corinthians/5-10 "2 Corinthians 5:10 - The Judgment Seat of Christ")) and the compelling love of Christ ([2 Corinthians 5:14](/2_corinthians/5-14 "2 Corinthians 5:14 - The Love of Christ Compels Us")). The immediate preceding verses, [2 Corinthians 5:17-19](/2_corinthians/5-17-19 "2 Corinthians 5:17-19 - New Creation and Ministry of Reconciliation"), are foundational, introducing the concept of the "new creation" in Christ and, crucially, the "ministry of reconciliation" that God has committed to believers. Verse 20 then serves as the explicit commission, defining the role of those who carry this divine message.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's ministry in Corinth was marked by significant challenges, including internal divisions, moral issues, and opposition from false apostles. In this letter, Paul defends his apostolic authority and the legitimacy of his ministry. The concept of an "ambassador" (Greek _presbeúō_) would have been immediately understood by a Roman-era audience. Ambassadors were highly respected representatives of a sovereign power, dispatched to foreign lands to negotiate treaties, deliver messages, and represent the interests of their ruler. They carried the full authority and dignity of the one who sent them. This imagery powerfully conveyed the gravity and authority of the Christian's role, not as self-appointed messengers, but as divinely commissioned envoys of the King of Kings, operating within a pagan, often hostile, cultural landscape.

* **Key Themes:** [2 Corinthians 5](/2_corinthians/5 "2 Corinthians 5 - The Ministry of Reconciliation") is rich with interconnected themes that culminate in verse 20. The overarching theme is **Reconciliation**, emphasizing God's initiative to restore humanity to Himself through Christ, moving from enmity to peace ([Romans 5:10](/romans/5-10 "Romans 5:10 - Reconciliation Through Christ's Death")). This is inextricably linked to the **New Creation** theme, where being "in Christ" transforms an individual into a new being, making them fit for this ministry ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")). The verse also highlights the **Divine Initiative and Urgency**, as God Himself is portrayed as "beseeching" humanity, demonstrating His passionate desire for their restoration. Finally, it underscores the **Apostolic and Believer's Authority and Responsibility**, as those who have received this ministry are now called to embody and proclaim it, acting as Christ's representatives.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ambassadors (Greek, _presbeúō'_):** This verb, derived from the base of "elder" or "senior," signifies "to be a senior, i.e. (by implication) act as a representative (figuratively, preacher)." It denotes a person of age and authority, specifically one who is sent on a diplomatic mission by a sovereign power. In the context of 2 Corinthians 5:20, it elevates the believer's role from a mere messenger to a dignified, authorized representative of Christ, carrying His message and authority.
* **Beseech (Greek, _parakaléō'_):** From the roots "near" and "to call," this verb means "to call near, i.e. invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)." It conveys a sense of earnest pleading, urging, or comforting. When applied to God, it underscores the profound divine desire and passionate appeal for humanity's reconciliation, demonstrating that God is not a distant, indifferent deity but one who actively and urgently desires restoration.
* **Reconciled (Greek, _katallássō'_):** This verb means "to change mutually, i.e. (figuratively) to compound a difference" or "to reconcile." It describes the act of restoring a broken relationship, particularly one characterized by enmity, to a state of peace and harmony. In theological terms, it signifies the transformation from being God's enemies due to sin to being His friends through the atoning work of Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now then we are ambassadors for Christ":** This clause establishes the core identity and role of believers. The "Now then" (G3767 _oûn_) acts as a logical conclusion, drawing from the preceding discussion of the "ministry of reconciliation." "We" refers to Paul and his fellow apostles, but by extension, to all believers who partake in this ministry. To be "ambassadors for Christ" means to be official, authorized representatives of Christ, acting on His behalf in the world, just as a nation's ambassador represents their sovereign in a foreign land.
* **"as though God did beseech [you] by us":** This phrase emphasizes the divine initiative and the profound nature of the message. The "as though" (G5613 _hōs_) indicates that God is genuinely and passionately making His appeal through human agents. It is not merely a human message, but God Himself, in His earnest desire for humanity's salvation, is pleading through the mouths and lives of His ambassadors. The "by us" (G1223 _diá_ G2257 _hēmōn_) highlights the instrumentality of believers in God's redemptive plan.
* **"we pray [you] in Christ's stead":** This reiterates the representative nature of the ambassadorial role. "We pray [you]" uses the Greek word _déomai_ (G1189), which means "to beg" or "to make request," reinforcing the earnestness of the appeal. "In Christ's stead" (G5228 _hypér_ G5547 _Christós_) means "on behalf of Christ" or "as Christ's substitute." Believers are called to speak and act with the same authority, love, and urgency that Christ Himself would employ if He were physically present.
* **"be ye reconciled to God":** This is the direct, urgent imperative and the central message of the ambassador. "Be ye reconciled" (G2644 _katallássō_) is a passive imperative, meaning "allow yourselves to be reconciled" or "receive reconciliation." It is a call to humanity, who are alienated from God by sin, to accept the peace and restored relationship that God offers through Christ. This reconciliation is not something humanity achieves on its own, but something God provides and humanity must receive.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in [2 Corinthians 5:20](/2_corinthians/5-20 "2 Corinthians 5:20 - Ambassadors for Christ") is **Metaphor**. The apostle Paul uses the vivid image of an "ambassador" to describe the role of believers. This metaphor is highly effective because it immediately conveys a sense of authority, representation, and a delegated mission from a sovereign power. An ambassador does not speak for themselves but for their king or nation, carrying a specific message and acting with official sanction. This device underscores the divine commission and the gravity of the Christian's task. Furthermore, the verse uses **Personification** by portraying God as "beseeching" or pleading, giving human-like earnestness and passion to the divine desire for reconciliation. Finally, the phrase "be ye reconciled to God" functions as a direct **Imperative**, a command or urgent appeal, highlighting the call to action for those who hear the message.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound truth of [2 Corinthians 5:20](/2_corinthians/5-20 "2 Corinthians 5:20 - Ambassadors for Christ") resonates deeply with core biblical doctrines, particularly the nature of God, the human condition, and the work of Christ. It affirms God's character as a God of love and initiative, who does not wait for humanity to seek Him but actively pursues reconciliation. Humanity, alienated by sin, is in desperate need of this divine intervention. The verse implicitly points to the cross of Christ as the means by which this reconciliation is achieved, as highlighted in the very next verse where Christ is made sin for us ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Made Sin for Us")). This ambassadorial role is a continuation of Christ's own ministry on earth, where He perfectly represented the Father and initiated the work of reconciliation.

* [Romans 5:10](/romans/5-10 "Romans 5:10 - Reconciliation Through Christ's Death"): "For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life."
* [Colossians 1:19-20](/colossians/1-19-20 "Colossians 1:19-20 - Reconciliation Through Christ's Blood"): "For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven."
* [Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission"): "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[2 Corinthians 5:20](/2_corinthians/5-20 "2 Corinthians 5:20 - Ambassadors for Christ") is not merely a theological statement but a profound call to action and a definition of Christian identity. To grasp that we are "ambassadors for Christ" transforms our understanding of daily life. It means our words, actions, and even our very presence carry the weight and authority of the One who sent us. We are called to live lives that authentically represent the character and message of Christ, knowing that God Himself is pleading through us. This understanding should instill both a deep sense of privilege and a weighty responsibility. It compels us to live with intentionality, seeking opportunities to share the message of reconciliation, not as a human opinion, but as a divine imperative. It reminds us that our primary allegiance is to the Kingdom of God, and our mission is to invite others into that Kingdom, urging them to "be reconciled to God" through Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding yourself as an "ambassador for Christ" change your perspective on your daily interactions and responsibilities?**
* **In what specific ways can you better embody the message of reconciliation in your words and actions this week?**
* **Considering that God "beseeches" through us, what does this imply about the urgency and compassion with which we should share the Gospel?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean for a Christian to be an "ambassador for Christ"?**

Answer: To be an "ambassador for Christ" means that every Christian is an authorized, official representative of Jesus Christ on earth. Just as a political ambassador represents their sovereign nation in a foreign land, Christians represent the Kingdom of God in a world that is not their ultimate home. This role implies carrying Christ's message, embodying His character, and acting on His behalf. It's a position of immense privilege and responsibility, signifying that our words and lives are meant to convey God's heart and truth to those who are estranged from Him. It means we are entrusted with the "ministry of reconciliation" mentioned in [2 Corinthians 5:18](/2_corinthians/5-18 "2 Corinthians 5:18 - The Ministry of Reconciliation").

**Why does the verse say God "beseeches" us through believers?**

Answer: The word "beseech" (Greek _parakaléō_) conveys a strong sense of earnest pleading, urging, and inviting. When the verse states that God "beseeches you by us," it highlights the divine initiative and the profound passion of God for humanity's reconciliation. It means that the message of salvation is not merely a human proposition, but God Himself, in His infinite love and desire, is passionately appealing to humanity through His chosen representatives—believers. This emphasizes the urgency and the compassionate heart of God in seeking to restore a broken relationship with His creation, underscoring that our evangelism is an extension of His own divine plea.

**What is the significance of being "reconciled to God"?**

Answer: To be "reconciled to God" means to have a broken relationship restored to peace and harmony. Humanity, due to sin, is naturally alienated from God and stands as His enemy ([Romans 5:10](/romans/5-10 "Romans 5:10 - Reconciliation Through Christ's Death")). Reconciliation signifies the transformation from this state of enmity to one of friendship and peace with God. This is not something humanity can achieve on its own; it is a divine act initiated by God through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The call to "be ye reconciled to God" is an invitation to accept this peace, to turn from sin, and to enter into a right relationship with the Creator, experiencing forgiveness and new life in Christ ([Colossians 1:21-22](/colossians/1-21-22 "Colossians 1:21-22 - Reconciled in Christ's Body")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[2 Corinthians 5:20](/2_corinthians/5-20 "2 Corinthians 5:20 - Ambassadors for Christ") finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the preeminent Ambassador, the perfect representative of God the Father, who came to earth not only to declare God's message but to embody it fully. As the [Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), Jesus perfectly revealed the Father's character and will. His entire life was a living demonstration of God's earnest plea for humanity. It was through His obedient life, His atoning death on the cross, and His glorious resurrection that the very possibility of reconciliation was secured ([Romans 5:10](/romans/5-10 "Romans 5:10 - Reconciliation Through Christ's Death")). He is the one who "made peace through the blood of his cross" ([Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Colossians 1:20 - Peace Through the Cross")). Therefore, when believers are called "ambassadors for Christ" and are urged to pray "in Christ's stead," it is because Christ Himself is the source and substance of the message of reconciliation. We are merely extending His ongoing ministry, inviting others to the peace with God that He alone procured, knowing that "God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself" ([2 Corinthians 5:19](/2_corinthians/5-19 "2 Corinthians 5:19 - God in Christ Reconciling the World")). Our ambassadorship is a participation in His finished work and His continuing intercession.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 14:23

And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel [them] to come in, that my house may be filled.

Ephesians 6:20

For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Malachi 2:7

For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he [is] the messenger of the LORD of hosts.

2 Corinthians 5:11

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.

John 20:21

Then said Jesus to them again, Peace [be] unto you: as [my] Father hath sent me, even so send I you.

Isaiah 55:6

¶ Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:

Isaiah 55:7

Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.