2 Corinthians 5:20

Authorized King James Version

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.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ὑπὲρ

G5228

for

"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super

Χριστοῦ

G5547

Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

οὖν

G3767

Now then

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

πρεσβεύομεν

G4243

we are ambassadors

to be a senior, i.e., (by implication) act as a representative (figuratively, preacher)

ὡς

G5613

as though

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

τοῦ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

θεῷ

G2316

God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

παρακαλοῦντος

G3870

did beseech

to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)

δι'

G1223

you by

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

#10

ἡμῶν·

G2257

of (or from) us

#11

δεόμεθα

G1189

we pray

to beg (as binding oneself), i.e., petition

#12

ὑπὲρ

G5228

for

"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super

#13

Χριστοῦ

G5547

Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

#14

καταλλάγητε

G2644

be ye reconciled

to change mutually, i.e., (figuratively) to compound a difference

#15

τῷ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#16

θεῷ

G2316

God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Corinthians.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within 2 Corinthians chapter 5 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?