Know what this means? Do you appreciate what this accomplishes? Do you practice this? I decided that I was wondering what the scriptural definition of ‘reconciliation’ was, however this is Google’s:
“Biblical reconciliation is the process of two previously alienated parties coming to peace with each other. Because God has reconciled us to himself through Jesus Christ, we can reconcile with each other, no longer counting our offenses against one another.” [Googles interpretation of a spiritual definition]
If you’re interested in a more scriptural basis, the biblestudytools says:
“Reconciliation comes from the Greek family of words that has its roots in allasso [ajllavssw]. The meaning common to this word group is “change” or “exchange.” Reconciliation involves a change in the relationship between God and man or man and man. It assumes there has been a breakdown in the relationship, but now there has been a change from a state of enmity and fragmentation to one of harmony and fellowship. In Romans 5:6-11, Paul says that before reconciliation we were powerless, ungodly, sinners, and enemies; we were under God’s wrath (v. 9). Because of change or reconciliation we become new creatures. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”
(2 Corinthians 5:17 ).
Those scriptures confirm and reinforce the scriptural definition. Through our own choices and actions we WERE estranged and not in relationship with the Lord. Once we made Him our Lord and Savior then we had access to reconciliation. But never assume this is a one and done. Because of our nature, we continually get out of relationship. Ahhh but we have a way back, to resolve the lack of relationship: 1 John 1:9 dispenses forgiveness thus the way (in my estimation). Personally I love the way the Lord provides for us even when we sin.
The familiar phrase of ‘what’s in it for me’ has wide implications but can be applied as we enter into a reconciliation, especially man to man. Let’s face it… we want everything to be ‘our way’. Many have the attitude of ‘my way or the highway’ – this is not reconciliation. But is it compromise? Secularly… probably.
Compromise doesn’t play a role spiritually. Sometime do a study on compromise – it never means in the essential truths of scripture exchanged for something else. Truth is truth. Iron sharpening iron does help us grow and understand but also remember Paul’s warning which he states in Galatians 1: 6-12 (especially verse 8) and 2 Corinthians 11:4
“But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to that which we [originally] preached to you, let him be condemned to destruction! ” (v.8)
Compromise should not be accepted when it goes against scripture – our strong defense.
When it comes to our Lord, reconciliation can be summed up in the reality that it is all one sided – He gives us Everything. Deserved? No. Earned? No. Purchased? No. What was purchased is You and then, I believe, He set about protecting and providing for us.
“Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life]. But all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ [making us acceptable to Him] and gave us the ministry of reconciliation [so that by our example we might bring others to Him], that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting people’s sins against them [but canceling them]. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation [that -is, restoration to favor with God].” [2 Corinthians 5:17-19]
This does appear that WE have a role in reconciliation too. We are the hands, feet, voice to others… that they can be saved, forgiven, and reconciled.
