16 qTherefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, ryet now we know Him thus no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone sis in Christ, he is ta new creation; uold things have passed away; behold, all things have become vnew. 18 Now all things are of God, wwho has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that xGod was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not 4imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.

20 Now then, we are yambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For zHe made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become athe righteousness of God in Him.

Marks of the Ministry

6 We then, as aworkers together with Him also bplead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain. 2 For He says:

c“In an acceptable time I have heard you,

And in the day of salvation I have helped you.”

Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.

3 dWe give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed. 4 But in all things we commend ourselves eas ministers of God: in much 1patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses, 5 fin stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, in fastings; 6 by purity, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by 2sincere love, 7 gby the word of truth, by hthe power of God, by ithe armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, 8 by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; 9 as unknown, and jyet well known; kas dying, and behold we live; las chastened, and yet not killed; 10 as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many mrich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

Be Holy

11 O Corinthians! 3We have spoken openly to you, nour heart is wide open. 12 You are not restricted by us, but oyou are restricted by your own affections. 13 Now in return for the same p(I speak as to children), you also be open.