2 Corinthians 5:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 5:20
20 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.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 5 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, truth, creation. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55-56 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Paul defended his apostleship against challenges in a culture valuing rhetorical prowess.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-21: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
2 Corinthians 5:20
20 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.
Analysis
Now then we are ambassadors for Christ—Hyper Christou oun presbeuomen (ὑπὲρ Χριστοῦ οὖν πρεσβεύομεν). Presbeuo (πρεσβεύω) means "to serve as ambassador, represent officially." Hyper Christou (ὑπὲρ Χριστοῦ, "on behalf of Christ") indicates representative authority—ambassadors speak for absent kings. We represent heaven's kingdom on hostile earth, bearing Christ's message with His authority. Oun (οὖν, "therefore") connects to vv. 18-19—since God entrusted reconciliation ministry, we function as His official envoys.
As though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God—Hōs tou Theou parakalountos di' hēmōn, deometha hyper Christou, katallagēte tō Theō (ὡς τοῦ θεοῦ παρακαλοῦντος δι' ἡμῶν, δεόμεθα ὑπὲρ Χριστοῦ, καταλλάγητε τῷ θεῷ). Parakalountos (παρακαλοῦντος, present participle of παρακαλέω, "entreating, beseeching") suggests urgent appeal, not casual invitation. God Himself pleads di' hēmōn (δι' ἡμῶν, "through us")—stunning condescension: Creator beseeching creatures. Deometha (δεόμεθα, "we beg, we beseech") intensifies—Paul begs on God's behalf. Katallagēte (καταλλάγητε, aorist passive imperative, "be reconciled!") is urgent command—accept reconciliation God offers. Passive voice: humans cannot reconcile themselves to God; they can only receive reconciliation God accomplished.
Historical Context
Ancient ambassadors represented emperors with full authority—rejecting ambassador was rejecting sender. Paul's ambassadorial claim was audacious: he spoke with divine authority, not personal opinion. Corinthian critics questioned this authority; Paul insists his message carries God's own voice. This established gospel preaching's authority through church history.
Reflection
- Do you take seriously your identity as Christ's ambassador—that you represent Him wherever you go?
- How does God "beseech" unbelievers through you—is your life and witness a visible, urgent plea for reconciliation?
- Who in your sphere of influence needs to hear "Be reconciled to God"—what holds you back from speaking?
Word Studies
- Reconcile: καταλλάσσω (Katallasso) G2644 - To reconcile, restore relationship
Cross-References
- References God: 2 Corinthians 5:11, 6:1, 1 Thessalonians 4:8
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 3:6, Job 22:21, Malachi 2:7, Luke 10:16, 14:23, John 20:21