Examining 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 (Part Four)

From the desk of Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D., Bible Expositor & Teacher. We read, “Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer” (2 Corinthians 5:16). The death of Christ, which atoned for the sins of all who place faith and trust (believe) in Him, brought about a significant transformation. For that reason, Paul emphasizes the importance of perceiving every person from a different and often challenging viewpoint. Rather than focusing on external appearances, the determining question to consider about every individual is their spiritual state. Every person holds inherent value and worth, not due to physical attributes or material wealth, nor should it be assessed by superficial looks. Their most profound need is to be reconciled with their Creator through Christ Jesus. Paul arrived at this understanding upon his conversion to faith in Jesus. How do we know? In speaking of Jesus he said, “yet now we know Him in this way no longer.” Initially, Paul and the Jewish leaders regarded Christ solely from a human perspective, viewing His death as a deserved punishment for blasphemy (see John 10:31-33). Yet, post-conversion, Paul recognized Christ as both divine and human and as the substitute for human sin described in previous verses. This realization—that everyone can receive forgiveness and transformation through faith in Christ—changed Paul's perception of others. His primary concern now centers on whether a person is in Christ or remains in sin, and whether they are reconciled to God through faith in Jesus. This perspective underscores his deep desire to see salvation through faith extended to all. Be encouraged.