2 Corinthians 5:1-21 Commentary
The Assurance of a New Body
In 2 Corinthians 5:1-21, Paul writes about the assurance of a new body, and the implications of this truth on our lives as believers. This passage is a powerful reminder of the hope we have in Christ, and the reality of our eternal future with Him.
The Tent and the Building (5:1-5)
The apostle Paul begins by contrasting our physical bodies, which he refers to as "tents," with our future glorified bodies, which he calls "buildings from God" (v. 1). This contrast highlights the temporary and fragile nature of our earthly bodies, which are subject to decay and death. In contrast, our glorified bodies will be eternal, imperishable, and glorious.
Paul expresses his longing to be clothed with his heavenly body, rather than his earthly one (v. 2). He desires to be with Christ, and to experience the fullness of joy and comfort that comes from being in His presence. This desire is rooted in his confidence in the promise of God, who has prepared this new body for him (v. 5).
The Judgement Seat of Christ (5:6-10)
Paul then shifts his focus to the judgement seat of Christ, where believers will one day give an account of their lives on earth. He emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God, and of being motivated by a fear of the Lord (v. 11).
The judgement seat of Christ is not a place of condemnation, but rather a place of evaluation, where our works will be tested and rewarded (1 Corinthians 3:12-15). Paul's desire is to receive a commendation from God, and to hear the words "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:23).
The Ministry of Reconciliation (5:11-21)
In the final section of this passage, Paul writes about the ministry of reconciliation, which has been entrusted to him and other believers. This ministry involves proclaiming the message of reconciliation, which is that God has reconciled us to Himself through Christ, and that we are now ambassadors for Christ (v. 20).
Paul's motivation for this ministry is his love for Christ, and his desire to see others reconciled to God. He writes that he is compelled by the love of Christ, and that he no longer regards people from a worldly point of view (v. 14, 16).
In conclusion, 2 Corinthians 5:1-21 is a powerful reminder of the hope we have in Christ, and the reality of our eternal future with Him. This passage encourages us to live lives that are pleasing to God, and to be motivated by a fear of the Lord. It also reminds us of the importance of proclaiming the message of reconciliation, and of living as ambassadors for Christ in the world.
Application Questions:
- How do you view your physical body? Do you see it as a "tent" that is temporary and fragile, or as a "building from God" that is eternal and glorious?
- Are you living a life that is pleasing to God, and motivated by a fear of the Lord?
- How can you be more intentional about proclaiming the message of reconciliation to those around you?
