Compelled by love: Embracing our Global Mission
Compelled by Love: Embracing Our Global Mission
Introduction
Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 and 2 Corinthians 4:7
“Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. If we are ‘out of our mind,’ as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” (2 Corinthians 4:7)
1. Compelled by Christ’s Love
George Verwer, the founder of Operation Mobilisation (OM), often spoke about the “revolution of love.” He believed that Christianity is fundamentally a spiritual revolution characterized by radical love and action. This love compels us to act, to move beyond our comfort zones, and to engage in God’s mission wholeheartedly.
Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:14-15, “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.” This compelling love transforms us from living for ourselves to living for Christ. It is a call to die to self, to surrender our desires, ambitions, and comforts for the sake of Christ and His mission.
2. The Ministry of Reconciliation
In 2 Corinthians 5:18-20, Paul explains that we have been given the ministry of reconciliation. This ministry is not just about words but about living out the Gospel in tangible ways. As ambassadors of Christ, we are called to build bridges, foster peace, and demonstrate the transformative power of God’s love through our actions.
3. A New Creation in Christ
Paul declares in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This new creation is not just a change in behavior but a profound renewal of our entire being. Living as a new creation means our identity, purpose, and mission are rooted in Christ.
As new creations, we are called to be ambassadors of Christ, representing Him and His Kingdom in all that we do. This new identity empowers us to live out our calling with integrity and passion, reflecting Christ’s love and character in our daily lives.
4. Trusting in the Treasure Within
2 Corinthians 4:7 reminds us, “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” The treasure of Christ within us is the source of our strength and the reason for our mission. Despite our frailties and limitations, God’s power shines through, making us effective witnesses of His love and grace.
5. A Global Vision
Our mission extends beyond our immediate context to the ends of the earth. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 commands us to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
We are called to have a global vision, desiring that all nations respond to God’s love and grace. This vision should compel us to engage in missions, support global evangelistic efforts, and pray fervently for the unreached. Our heart should echo God’s heart, which is for all people to come to the knowledge of the truth and experience the salvation found in Christ.
Conclusion: Practical Steps to Live Out Our Calling
1. Daily Surrender: Begin each day with a prayer of surrender, asking God to help you die to self and live for Him. Reflect on the cross and the sacrifice of Jesus, letting His love compel you in all your actions.
2. Seek Reconciliation: Actively seek opportunities to reconcile broken relationships in your life. Be a peacemaker in your community, demonstrating the power of God’s love to heal and restore.
3. Live as a New Creation: Embrace your identity in Christ and let it shape your decisions, values, and interactions. Strive to reflect Christ’s character in all that you do.
4. Trust in God’s Goodness and Greatness: In moments of doubt or difficulty, remind yourself of God’s faithfulness and sovereignty. Trust that He is working all things for your good and His glory.
5. Engage in Global Missions: Support workers, participate in short-term mission trips, and stay informed about global needs. Pray for the unreached and ask God to show you how you can be part of His global mission.
As we go forth, let us remember that we are compelled by love—Christ’s love—to die to self and live for Him. As new creations, we are called to be ambassadors of reconciliation, trusting in God’s goodness and greatness, and desiring that all nations respond to His love and grace. May we go forth with boldness and humility, living out our calling for the glory of God and the advancement of His Kingdom.
Thank you, and may God bless you as you serve Him faithfully.