What does Paul mean when he refers to Christ?
Paul's references to Christ point to His death on the cross, His shed blood, and His resurrection power. This same Christ is the one through whom God reconciled us to Himself, and He has given us the ministry of reconciliation.
Les explains that when Paul refers to Christ, he naturally means Christ's death on the cross, His shed blood, and His power in resurrection. The passage shows that all things are of God, who reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and who has given us the ministry of reconciliation. Les illustrates reconciliation by pointing out that reconciliation only becomes necessary where there has first been separation. A husband and wife who have never had difficulties have no point in reconciliation, but a couple with marital problems, who have drifted apart and become almost enemies, are candidates for reconciliation. Les says the same thing has happened in the realm of the Spirit between man and God: God created man in His own image, had fellowship with him in the Garden, and walked with Adam and Eve in the cool of the day in sweet fellowship.
And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;