Reconciliation
καταλλαγή (katallagē)
The restoration of friendship between God and sinful humanity through Christ.
Katallagē is the Greek word for reconciliation, describing the restoration of a broken relationship. Through Christ's death, the enmity between God and humanity is removed, and peace is established.
"And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation." — 2 Corinthians 5:18 (KJV)
Key Verses
2 Corinthians 5:18
“And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation.”Read in context
Romans 5:10
“For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.”Read in context
Colossians 1:20
“And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself.”Read in context
Etymology and Original Meaning
Katallagē comes from katallassō, meaning 'to exchange' or 'to change thoroughly.' It pictures a complete transformation of relationship — from enmity to friendship, from alienation to intimacy. In secular Greek, it described the settlement of disputes between hostile parties. Paul applies it to the most fundamental estrangement: the broken relationship between God and humanity caused by sin.
The Need for Reconciliation
Sin created enmity between God and humanity. Paul describes sinners as 'enemies' of God (Romans 5:10) — not merely strangers but active rebels. Colossians 1:21 says we were 'alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works.' This is not God being unreasonably angry but the just consequence of creatures rebelling against their Creator. Reconciliation addresses this real enmity.
God's Initiative
The revolutionary message of biblical reconciliation is that God initiates it. 'All things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ' (2 Corinthians 5:18). While we were still enemies, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8, 10). God does not wait for humanity to make the first move — He sends His Son, bears the cost, and extends the invitation.
The Ministry of Reconciliation
Paul declares that God has given believers 'the ministry of reconciliation' (2 Corinthians 5:18-20). Ambassadors for Christ, they carry the message: 'Be ye reconciled to God.' This ministry extends beyond individuals to communities and ultimately to all creation. Colossians 1:20 envisions cosmic reconciliation — all things in heaven and earth restored through the blood of the cross.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does reconciliation mean in the Bible?
Reconciliation (katallagē) is the restoration of the broken relationship between God and sinful humanity. Through Christ's death, enmity is removed and peace is established.
Who initiates reconciliation?
God does. While we were still enemies, God reconciled us to Himself through Christ's death (Romans 5:10; 2 Corinthians 5:18). Reconciliation is God's gift, not humanity's achievement.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Reconciliation"?
2 Corinthians 5:18 — "And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation" (KJV). It also appears in Romans 5:10, Colossians 1:20.
Why does the Greek word behind "Reconciliation" matter?
Katallagē comes from katallassō, meaning 'to exchange' or 'to change thoroughly.' It pictures a complete transformation of relationship — from enmity to friendship, from alienation to intimacy. English uses one word, "Reconciliation", where the Greek καταλλαγή (katallagē) carries the fuller sense: the restoration of friendship between god and sinful humanity through christ.
Related Words
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Reconciliation (καταλλαγή (katallagē))
The restoration of friendship between God and sinful humanity through Christ.
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The direction, pace, and ministry of one's life.
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Deception, hidden enemies, and spiritual attack.
Reconciliation Bible Quiz
From enemies to friends — how God restores broken relationships through Christ.
2 Corinthians 5 Quiz — New Creation & Reconciliation
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Where to go next
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- Bible word meanings A–ZHebrew and Greek words explained in plain English.Continue
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- Bible questions answered from ScriptureStraight KJV answers to common questions.Continue
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