AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST

AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 6:20

Key Verse: Ephesians 6:20 (KJV)
“For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”

Supporting Texts: 2 Corinthians 5:18-21; Ephesians 6:19-20; Philippians 3:20; John 20:21; Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; 1 Peter 2:9-12; Colossians 4:5-6.

Description: This message examines the identity, responsibilities and spiritual authority of believers as representatives of Jesus Christ, called to communicate His message and demonstrate His kingdom to the world.

INTRODUCTION

An ambassador is an authorised representative of one country who is sent to another country to represent the interests, policies and position of the government that appointed him. An ambassador does not speak merely for himself; he speaks on behalf of the authority that sent him. His conduct, communication and decisions must reflect the values and instructions of his government. In the same way, every believer is called to represent Jesus Christ and His kingdom in this world.

In Ephesians 6:20, Apostle Paul described himself as an ambassador in bonds. He was imprisoned because of his commitment to preaching the gospel, yet he did not consider himself a defeated prisoner. He understood that his physical chains could not cancel his spiritual assignment. Though confined by human authorities, he remained a representative of heaven. He was in chains, but his message was still free. He therefore requested prayer that he might speak boldly as he ought to speak.

The Christian life is more than attending church services, singing spiritual songs or participating in religious activities. It is a divine appointment to represent Christ wherever we find ourselves. We are Christ's representatives in our homes, workplaces, communities, schools, businesses and nations. Our words must communicate His truth, our conduct must reflect His character, and our lives must demonstrate the reality of His kingdom.

1. UNDERSTANDING OUR IDENTITY AS AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST

The identity of an ambassador begins with the authority that appoints and sends him. A person cannot legitimately represent a government without being authorised by that government. Similarly, a Christian becomes an ambassador for Christ through salvation and the calling to represent Him.

A believer is not merely a member of a religious organisation. He or she is a citizen of heaven, a representative of Christ and a messenger of reconciliation. This identity gives us both a privilege and a responsibility.

a) We Are Appointed by Christ (John 15:16)

Jesus told His disciples that He had chosen and ordained them to go and bring forth fruit.

Our service to God is not based merely on personal ambition. Christ has called us to belong to Him and to bear fruit for His kingdom. We are not self-appointed representatives; we have been called by the Lord Himself.

This means that our lives must be governed by His instructions. An ambassador does not have the liberty to promote personal interests at the expense of the government he represents. Likewise, a Christian must not use the name of Christ to promote selfish ambition, dishonesty or personal gain.

Practical Application: Recognise that your Christian identity carries a divine responsibility. Live every day with the consciousness that Christ has called you to represent Him.

b) We Are Citizens of Heaven (Philippians 3:20)

Paul declared, “For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.”

The word translated as conversation carries the idea of citizenship. Although believers live on earth, their ultimate citizenship is in heaven. Our values, priorities and conduct must therefore be shaped by our heavenly citizenship.

We must not allow the standards of a corrupt world to determine how we live. Our loyalty belongs to Christ, and our lives must demonstrate the values of His kingdom.

Practical Application: Let your decisions reflect your heavenly citizenship. Do not compromise your Christian identity to gain acceptance in a world that does not honour God's standards.

c) We Represent the King of Kings (Revelation 19:16)

Jesus Christ is described as the King of kings and Lord of lords. We represent a King whose authority is above every earthly authority.

This is a great privilege. We are not representing a defeated ruler or a powerless kingdom. We represent the risen Christ, who possesses all authority in heaven and on earth.

Our confidence must therefore come from the authority of the One we represent. We must not become intimidated by human opposition when we are faithfully carrying out His instructions.

Practical Application: Face your responsibilities with confidence in Christ. Remember that the authority behind your Christian witness is greater than the opposition you may encounter.

d) We Are Called to Reflect Christ's Character (Galatians 5:22-23)

The fruit of the Spirit reveals the character that should be evident in the life of a believer: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance.

An ambassador's conduct affects the reputation of the government he represents. In the same way, the conduct of Christians influences how people perceive the gospel.

It is inconsistent to preach the love of Christ while living in hatred, proclaim holiness while practising immorality, or teach honesty while engaging in fraud. Our lives must support the message we proclaim.

Practical Application: Allow the Holy Spirit to develop Christlike character in you. Let your behaviour at home, at work and in public bring honour to Jesus.

Biblical Example: Daniel (Daniel 6:1-5, 10)

Daniel served in a foreign government while remaining faithful to the God of Israel. His integrity, wisdom and commitment to prayer distinguished him. Even when his faith was challenged, he refused to compromise his relationship with God. Daniel demonstrates how a believer can represent God's values faithfully in a challenging environment.

2. THE MESSAGE COMMITTED TO CHRIST'S AMBASSADORS

An ambassador must understand the message he is authorised to communicate. He cannot invent policies or alter the position of the government that sent him. In the same way, Christians must understand and faithfully communicate the message of Jesus Christ.

In 2 Corinthians 5:18-21, Paul explains that God has committed to believers the ministry of reconciliation and has entrusted them with the word of reconciliation. This is the heart of our ambassadorial assignment.

a) We Must Preach the Message of Reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)

The Bible teaches that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.

Sin separated humanity from God, but through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, God provided the way for people to be restored to fellowship with Him.

Our assignment is to communicate this message of reconciliation. We must tell people that forgiveness is available, that Christ has paid the price for sin, and that everyone who repents and believes in Him can receive eternal life.

Practical Application: Make reconciliation with God a central part of your witness. Tell people that no one is beyond the reach of God's mercy when they come to Christ in repentance and faith.

b) We Must Proclaim Jesus Christ as the Only Saviour (Acts 4:12)

The apostles declared that salvation is found in no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.

As ambassadors for Christ, we must not replace the gospel with human philosophies or motivational messages. We must proclaim Jesus Christ, His sacrificial death, His resurrection and His lordship.

The world may offer different philosophies and religious ideas, but the church has been entrusted with the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Practical Application: Keep Christ at the centre of your conversations, preaching, teaching and evangelistic activities.

c) We Must Call People to Repentance and Faith (Mark 1:14-15)

Jesus began His public ministry by preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God and calling people to repent and believe the gospel.

The message of reconciliation requires a response. People must acknowledge their sins, turn away from them and place their faith in Jesus Christ.

An ambassador for Christ must not dilute the gospel to make it more acceptable to people. We must proclaim God's grace while clearly communicating the need for repentance and a transformed life.

Practical Application: When sharing the gospel, lovingly explain the need for repentance, faith in Christ and obedience to His Word.

d) We Must Proclaim the Coming Kingdom of Christ (Matthew 24:14)

Jesus declared that the gospel of the kingdom would be preached throughout the world as a witness to all nations.

The kingdom of God is not limited to the present world system. It points to God's sovereign rule and the ultimate fulfilment of His purpose through Jesus Christ.

As ambassadors, we must remind people that earthly achievements are temporary and that every person must be prepared to stand before God. Our message must direct people towards Christ and eternal life.

Practical Application: Live with eternity in view. Use your opportunities, resources and influence to advance the message of God's kingdom.

Biblical Example: Philip the Evangelist (Acts 8:26-40)

Philip obeyed the Holy Spirit's instruction to approach the Ethiopian official. He explained the Scriptures and preached Jesus to him. Philip did not promote himself; he faithfully communicated the message of Christ. His encounter demonstrates the responsibility of every believer to make the Saviour known.

3. THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST

An ambassador is not sent merely to enjoy the privileges of his position. He is sent to fulfil an assignment. In the same way, Christian identity must produce Christian responsibility.

We cannot claim to represent Christ while refusing to obey His instructions. Our calling demands faithfulness, discipline, spiritual maturity and commitment to the mission entrusted to us.

a) We Must Speak on Behalf of Christ (Ephesians 6:19-20)

Paul requested prayer that he might open his mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel. He understood that an ambassador must communicate the message of the One who sent him.

The church must not remain silent while people perish without the knowledge of Christ. We must use our voices to proclaim the truth, encourage the weak, correct error with love and point sinners to the Saviour.

Practical Application: Do not hide your faith. Look for opportunities to speak about Jesus in your everyday relationships and activities.

b) We Must Live Worthy of Our Calling (Ephesians 4:1)

Paul urged believers to walk worthy of the vocation with which they were called.

An ambassador must conduct himself in a manner that honours the authority he represents. Similarly, Christians must live in a way that reflects the holiness and integrity of Christ.

Our Christian testimony is not limited to what we say on Sundays. It includes how we handle money, relate to people, fulfil promises, treat our families and respond to difficult situations.

Practical Application: Examine your conduct regularly. Where your lifestyle contradicts the gospel, repent and allow God to bring about genuine change.

c) We Must Demonstrate the Love of Christ (John 13:34-35)

Jesus said that people would know His disciples by their love for one another.

Love is a distinguishing mark of the kingdom we represent. Our churches and Christian communities should demonstrate forgiveness, kindness, compassion, patience and genuine concern for people.

A believer who is harsh, unforgiving and selfish contradicts the message of Christ. We must allow the love of Jesus to shape our relationships.

Practical Application: Demonstrate Christ's love through practical kindness, forgiveness, generosity and concern for the needs of others.

d) We Must Make Disciples of All Nations (Matthew 28:19-20)

Jesus commanded His followers to go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them and teaching them to observe all that He had commanded.

The ambassadorial assignment does not end when a person makes a confession of faith. New believers must be taught, strengthened and established in the Word of God.

The church must therefore move beyond counting converts to building disciples who understand the Scriptures and live in obedience to Christ.

Practical Application: Participate in discipleship. Help new believers grow in prayer, biblical knowledge, fellowship, holiness and service.

Biblical Example: The Early Church (Acts 2:41-47)

After Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost, thousands received the Word and were baptised. They continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayers. The early church demonstrated that the work of an ambassador includes proclaiming the gospel and nurturing those who respond to it.

4. THE QUALITIES OF EFFECTIVE AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST

The effectiveness of an ambassador depends not only on the authority of the government that appointed him but also on his faithfulness in carrying out his assignment. In the same way, believers must develop spiritual qualities that make their Christian witness credible and fruitful.

God expects us to be dependable representatives of His kingdom. We must grow in knowledge, character, courage and spiritual discipline.

a) Faithfulness to the Word of God (2 Timothy 2:15)

Paul instructed Timothy to study and present himself approved unto God, rightly dividing the word of truth.

An ambassador must communicate the official position of the government he represents. He cannot alter the message to suit personal preferences. Likewise, Christians must be faithful to Scripture.

We must avoid twisting the Word to justify sin, promote selfish interests or gain popularity. Our responsibility is to understand the Scriptures and communicate them accurately.

Practical Application: Study the Bible consistently. Build your beliefs and decisions on God's Word rather than popular opinions.

b) Integrity and Good Character (Titus 2:7-8)

Paul instructed Titus to be an example of good works, demonstrating integrity, seriousness and sound speech.

Integrity means being consistent in public and private life. An ambassador whose personal conduct is corrupt damages the reputation of the authority he represents.

The Christian must be honest in business, faithful in marriage, responsible in family life and trustworthy in relationships. Our integrity gives credibility to our witness.

Practical Application: Be truthful, dependable and transparent in your dealings. Let your private life agree with your public confession.

c) Courage and Spiritual Boldness (Acts 4:29-31)

The early church prayed for boldness in the face of threats and opposition. After prayer, they were filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke God's Word boldly.

Ambassadors for Christ must not be intimidated into silence. There will be moments when standing for biblical truth is unpopular, but we must remain faithful to God.

Courage does not mean behaving carelessly or provoking unnecessary conflict. It means obeying God and speaking the truth in love even when doing so is difficult.

Practical Application: Ask God for courage to stand for His Word. Refuse to compromise your convictions merely to gain acceptance.

d) Wisdom in Conduct and Communication (Colossians 4:5-6)

Paul instructed believers to walk in wisdom towards those who are outside the faith and to let their speech always be with grace.

An ambassador must understand how to communicate with different people and respond appropriately to different situations. Christians must therefore learn to speak with wisdom, patience and grace.

Not every disagreement requires an argument, and not every opportunity requires a lengthy sermon. The Holy Spirit can help us recognise the right moment and approach.

Practical Application: Speak graciously, listen carefully and answer questions with humility. Let your communication open doors for the gospel rather than create unnecessary barriers.

Biblical Example: Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 41:14-41)

Joseph served in a foreign land and eventually became second in command under Pharaoh. He demonstrated wisdom, integrity and faithfulness while acknowledging that the interpretation of dreams belonged to God. His life illustrates how a person can honour God and demonstrate godly character while serving in a position of influence.

5. THE CHALLENGES AND COST OF BEING AN AMBASSADOR FOR CHRIST

Being an ambassador for Christ is a great privilege, but it is not always an easy assignment. The world does not always welcome the message of the kingdom. Some people will appreciate our witness, while others may reject, ridicule or persecute us.

Paul's description of himself as an ambassador in bonds reveals that faithfulness to Christ does not guarantee a life free from hardship. Nevertheless, the difficulties of the assignment cannot cancel the importance of the calling.

a) We May Experience Rejection (John 15:18-20)

Jesus warned His disciples that the world would hate them because it first hated Him.

When people reject the gospel, believers must not interpret every rejection as personal failure. The message of Christ confronts sin and calls people to surrender their lives to God. Some will respond positively, while others will resist.

Practical Application: Do not allow rejection to make you bitter or silent. Continue to witness with patience, love and faithfulness.

b) We May Face Persecution (2 Timothy 3:12)

Scripture teaches that those who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will face persecution.

Paul experienced imprisonment, beatings, opposition and suffering because of his ministry. Yet he remained committed to his calling.

We must recognise that following Christ may involve sacrifices. However, we should never seek suffering unnecessarily or act without wisdom. Our commitment is to remain faithful to Christ in every circumstance.

Practical Application: Strengthen your spiritual life through prayer, the Word and fellowship. Be prepared to stand for Christ when your faith is challenged.

c) We Must Refuse to Compromise the Truth (Galatians 1:10)

Paul asked whether he was seeking the approval of men or of God. He understood that a servant of Christ cannot make pleasing people his highest priority.

The pressure to conform can tempt believers to soften biblical truth or accept practices that contradict God's Word. An ambassador must remain loyal to the authority that appointed him.

Practical Application: Do not exchange biblical convictions for popularity, financial benefits or social acceptance. Speak the truth with love and remain faithful to Scripture.

d) We Must Remain Faithful Until the End (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

At the end of his life, Paul declared that he had fought a good fight, finished his course and kept the faith.

The ambassadorial assignment is not a temporary responsibility. We must remain committed to Christ throughout our lives. It is not enough to begin well; we must also finish faithfully.

Practical Application: Do not allow temporary challenges, disappointments or worldly attractions to distract you from your calling. Keep your eyes on Christ and remain steadfast.

Biblical Example: Apostle Paul (2 Corinthians 11:23-28; Acts 28:30-31)

Paul endured imprisonment, beatings, dangers and numerous hardships because of his commitment to the gospel. Yet even while under house arrest in Rome, he continued preaching the kingdom of God and teaching about Jesus Christ. His life demonstrates that circumstances may restrict a person's movement, but they cannot destroy a faithful witness.

6. THE AUTHORITY AND PRIVILEGES OF AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST

An ambassador represents the authority of the government that sends him. Although he is not the source of that authority, he carries the responsibility of acting within the mandate given to him.

As believers, we represent Jesus Christ, who possesses all authority in heaven and on earth. Our confidence is not in human strength or personal influence but in the authority and presence of the risen Lord.

a) We Carry the Authority of Christ's Commission (Matthew 28:18-19)

Jesus declared that all power in heaven and on earth had been given unto Him before commanding His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations.

The Great Commission rests on the authority of the risen Christ. We do not go in our own name or promote our own kingdom. We go under His authority to proclaim His message.

Practical Application: Approach evangelism with confidence in Christ's authority. Remember that you are carrying out His commission, not pursuing a personal project.

b) We Have the Promise of Christ's Presence (Matthew 28:20)

Jesus promised to be with His disciples always, even unto the end of the world.

The presence of Christ is a great assurance for everyone who carries out His assignment. We may face unfamiliar environments, difficult people and challenging circumstances, but we are not abandoned.

His presence gives us courage, comfort and strength to continue serving faithfully.

Practical Application: Do not allow loneliness or opposition to discourage you. Depend on the Lord's presence as you fulfil your calling.

c) We Have the Empowerment of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8)

Jesus promised that the disciples would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them and that they would become His witnesses.

The Holy Spirit equips us to communicate the gospel, demonstrate Christlike character and remain faithful under pressure. He gives wisdom, courage and spiritual strength for the work of ministry.

Practical Application: Maintain a life of prayer and dependence on the Holy Spirit. Never attempt to fulfil a spiritual assignment through human strength alone.

d) We Have the Hope of an Eternal Reward (1 Peter 5:4)

Peter speaks of the Chief Shepherd appearing and the faithful receiving a crown of glory that does not fade away.

Our labour in Christ is not wasted. Even when people fail to appreciate our efforts, God sees our faithfulness. The reward of serving Christ is greater than temporary recognition, applause or material gain.

Practical Application: Serve with eternity in view. Let the promise of Christ's reward encourage you to remain faithful in every assignment.

Biblical Example: The Seventy Disciples (Luke 10:1-20)

Jesus sent out seventy disciples ahead of Him into the places He intended to visit. They returned with joy, reporting what God had done through them. Their experience demonstrated that Christ sends His people, empowers their service and gives them opportunities to advance His kingdom. Jesus also reminded them that their greatest joy should be that their names were written in heaven.

CONCLUSION

Every believer is an ambassador for Christ, appointed to represent the Saviour and communicate the message of His kingdom. We are citizens of heaven living on earth with a divine assignment. Our responsibility is to preach reconciliation, proclaim Jesus as the only Saviour, demonstrate His character and make disciples of all nations. We must remain faithful to the Word, walk in integrity, speak with boldness and depend on the Holy Spirit.

Paul was an ambassador in bonds, yet he continued to represent Christ faithfully. His chains could not cancel his calling, and his imprisonment could not silence his message. May we develop the same commitment to Christ. Wherever God has placed you, remember that you are His representative. Let your words proclaim Him, let your conduct honour Him and let your life demonstrate His kingdom. Be a faithful ambassador for Christ until He returns!

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, help me to understand and fulfil my identity as an ambassador for Christ, in Jesus name.

2. Lord, let my words and conduct always bring honour to Your name, in Jesus name.

3. Father, give me boldness to proclaim the gospel without fear or shame, in Jesus name.

4. Lord, make me a faithful messenger of reconciliation to my generation, in Jesus name.

5. Father, deliver me from every form of compromise that can damage my Christian testimony, in Jesus name.

6. Lord, fill me afresh with the Holy Spirit and empower me for effective witnessing, in Jesus name.

7. Father, give me wisdom to communicate Your truth with love and grace, in Jesus name.

8. Lord, make my family, church and community instruments for advancing Your kingdom, in Jesus name.

9. Father, strengthen me to remain faithful to Christ despite opposition and persecution, in Jesus name.

10. Lord, help me to finish my assignment faithfully and receive Your eternal reward, in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You are a chosen and appointed ambassador of Jesus Christ.

2. Your life shall reflect the character, love and holiness of Christ.

3. You shall receive boldness to proclaim the gospel without fear or shame.

4. Your mouth shall be an instrument for communicating the truth of God's Word.

5. You shall not compromise your faith for worldly acceptance or temporary benefits.

6. The Holy Spirit shall empower you to fulfil your divine assignment.

7. Your family and household shall become instruments for the advancement of God's kingdom.

8. Through your testimony, many people shall encounter Jesus Christ and receive salvation.

9. No opposition shall make you abandon your commitment to Christ.

10. You shall remain a faithful ambassador for Christ and finish your course with joy, in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.