How do we know the ministry of reconciliation is true?

The ministry of reconciliation is rooted in the reality that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:19. This reconciliation is not merely symbolic or potential; it is actualized through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. Paul asserts that Christ's atoning work is the basis for the effective communication of the gospel, which is meant to bring sinners into a saving relationship with God. The assurance and effectiveness of this ministry are also supported by the Holy Spirit's work, who applies the message of reconciliation to the hearts of the elect. Thus, the ministry is true because it fulfills the divine purpose established in the covenant of grace.