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What is biblical reconciliation? - Study Guide

Posted by Ingrid Romero on

Whether you joined us for one of our in-person services or joined our online service this week, you’re here on a journey of reimagining church.

If you missed the sermon this week, no problem! You may watch the on-demand Online Church message!  Click here. 

Let’s start by refreshing our memory on the key passage for this week.  Read 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 in a few different translations. 

INTRODUCTION

  • Describe the situation/environment that Paul is setting in verses 11-12.

  • Compare 2 Corinthians 5:12-13 to 1 Samuel 16:7. How are they similar? How do they contradict each other?

  • What becomes possible when we change how we see/view people?

  • CHALLENGE QUESTION: Is there a person in your life who Jesus is prompting you to look at differently? (i.e., their heart instead of their outward appearance?)

 EXPLORATION

  • Let’s explore the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation. What do you think is the difference between these two words? 

    HINT: In the Online Service, Pastor Clint said that Forgiveness is a DECISION and Reconciliation is an ACTION. 

  • Read the following verses. Using these verses as references, what does the Bible say about forgiveness?

    • Colossians 3:13
    • Matthew 6:14-15
    • Matthew 18:21-22; 35
    • Romans 12:17-21

  • As a follower of Jesus, it is clear that we are commanded to forgive anyone and everyone who sins against us as often as they continue to sin against us. Yet in Romans 12:18, Paul says, “as it is possible and as much as it depends on you,” live at peace with everyone.  What does this speak to your heart regarding biblical reconciliation?

  • Review 2 Corinthians 5:14 -15. What does Paul say should compel us into action?

  • Describe the love of Christ. As needed, use 1Corinthinas 13:4-13 as a reference.

  • Describe some childish ways that might be getting in your way (see Ephesians 4:31 for reference).

  • CHALLENGE QUESTION: For you: what “childish ways” get in the way of you being compelled by love to forgive consistently and take steps of reconciliation? 

APPLICATION

  • Review 2 Corinthians 5: 20-21 – Paul calls us Ambassadors. What are we ambassadors of, specifically?

  • If we are Ambassadors of Reconciliation to the world, what must we experience first, and why is that a requirement to this ministry?

    LEADERS: STOP HERE AND MAKE SURE YOU ALLOW PEOPLE TO RESPOND IF NEEDED TO THIS PROMPT TO BE RECONCILED TO GOD.

  • CHALLENGE QUESTION: In verse 17 of our passage, Paul says we are new creations – the old has passed away.  Is there someone that Jesus is prompting you to see as a new creation to make forgiveness and restoration possible?  

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