Explore The New TestamentSample

SAY WHAT? (What is the passage saying?)

• In the first section, Paul refers to our bodies as temporary homes. We will not be in them forever. But we have the promise of eternity in heaven with God where we will groan no more.
• Paul reminds us that this journey is by faith. We may not see God visibly, but he is there, waiting to take us home to heaven.  When we die, we will face God's judgment for things we've done, both good and bad.  This is why Paul says we should make it our goal to please God.
• As followers of Jesus, we should feel compelled to share his love with others. To know Jesus is to want everyone to know Jesus. When we are reconciled to God, we become new from the inside out. It is then our responsibility to share the message that Jesus died for all, so that our sins won't count against us. As a result, we can be right with God.

SO WHAT? (What are the underlying principles?)

• Death can seem scary.  But, when we realize that death of the body just means we are in heaven with God, the fear of death is taken away.
• We are Christ's ambassadors. We are to represent Jesus to this world and share God's message - that Jesus died for us because God loves us and wants a relationship with us.
• If people say yes to God's offer they become a "new creation" and the "old has gone." This is really good news! We all want a second chance at life, a new start, and that's exactly what God is offering us!

NOW WHAT? (How will you personally apply this passage?)

• Are you representing Jesus well in the way you live your life? Do you look for opportunities to share the message of reconciliation with them - that God loves them, provided a way to have a relationship with them, and if they say yes they get a new start and a life with God? Are there people you are (lovingly and graciously, but persistently) inviting to church? If not, you are missing out on your mission as a follower of Jesus. So how could you get started engaging in the mission