2 Corinthians 5:11-15 (NASB)
11 Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade men, but we are made manifest to God; and I hope that we are made manifest also in your consciences.
12 We are not again commending ourselves to you but are giving you an occasion to be proud of us, so that you will have an answer for those who take pride in appearance and not in heart.
13 For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you.
14 For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died;
15 and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf.
Introduction:
Review:
Theme: Three implications from judgement so you will live for Christ rather than yourself.
I. We know the fear of the Lord vs.11
II. We take take action vv.11-13
A. Persuasion in evangelism
B. Persuasion of sincerity
III. We are controlled by Christ’s love for us. vv.14-15
A. This love was demonstrated in a substitutionary atonement.
Note on the word “all”
1. All without
2. All without distinction
Understanding the word “all” in verses 14-15
The “all” who died is a direct consequence of Christ’s death for them.
His death was physical, ours is figurative.
Our death took place when He died.
Three provisions of the death of Christ for those condemned to hell.
1. The death of Christ serves to establish His Lordship
2. The death of Christ provides for a genuine offer of the Gospel for all people
3. The death of Christ provides a stay of execution
B. This love leads to living for Christ.
Two categories of people
1. They who live for themselves
2. They who live for their Savior
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