The Message Of The New Covenant

II Corinthians 5:14-21

In chapter 3 of II Corinthians Paul contrasts the Old and New Covenants.

The Old Covenant was a ministry of death, but the New Covenant is a ministry of life. Verse 6.
The Old Covenant had a fading glory, but the New Covenant has a glory that lasts forever. Verses 7-18.
The Old Covenant was a dispensation of condemnation, but the New Covenant is a dispensation of righteousness. Verse 9.
The Old Covenant veiled the face of Moses, but the New Covenant reveals the face of Christ. Verses 12-18.
The Old Covenant was a taskmaster, but the New Covenant gives freedom. Verse17.

In chapter four he tells us of the power of the New Covenant.
In the first verses of chapter five he tells us of the hope of the New Covenant and defends his ministry under the New Covenant.

Now Paul tells us what the message of the New Covenant that we proclaim consists of.

First, it is a message of Substitution. Verses 14-15.
Second, it is a message of Regeneration. Verse 17.
Third, it is a message of Reconciliation. Verses 18-20.
Finally, it is a message of Justification. Verses 19, 21.

Finally, Paul tells us that we must proclaim this message. Verses 18-20.

All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. (2Co 5:18-20)