Read Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 5:17-20

Paul ties mission directly to identity. He does not begin with responsibility, strategy, or skill. He begins with transformation. If anyone is in Christ, he says, the new creation has come. Before you are sent, you are changed. Before you speak on behalf of God, you are made new by Him.

This order matters. Many people experience mission as pressure because they believe it starts with what they must do. Paul insists that it starts with who you have become. You are not sent to earn God’s approval or prove your faithfulness. You are sent because God has already acted decisively in your life through Christ.

Being a “new creation” means your identity is no longer rooted in your past, your failures, or your performance. You belong to Christ. Your life now carries a different center of gravity. And from that new identity flows a new calling—not one fueled by guilt, but by gratitude.

Paul describes believers as ambassadors. An ambassador does not speak on their own authority. They represent another. This reframes mission beautifully. You are not responsible for convincing people or changing hearts. You are invited to represent the heart of God—His grace, mercy, and desire for reconciliation.

Reconciliation is at the center of God’s mission. God is not trying to win arguments; He is restoring relationship. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection make reconciliation possible. When you live sent, you participate in God’s desire to bring people back into relationship with Him.

In daily life, this means mission often looks quiet and relational. It happens through listening, patience, forgiveness, and presence. It shows up when you reflect Christ’s character in ordinary interactions. You represent God not only with your words, but with your posture and love.

This invitation removes fear. You are not sent as a spiritual expert, but as someone who has been changed by grace. Your life itself becomes part of God’s appeal to the world.

Reflection Questions:

• How does Paul describe someone who is “in Christ”?
  
• Why is identity foundational to mission?
  
• What does it mean to be an ambassador for Christ?
  
• How might God be using your story as part of His appeal?

Journaling Prompt:

Reflect on how being made new in Christ reshapes how you see yourself. Write about how that identity invites you into God’s mission.