Ambassadors for Christ
In 2 Corinthians 5:20, the apostle Paul writes, "Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God." This verse is a powerful statement of our role as followers of Jesus Christ, and it has significant implications for our lives as believers.
What does it mean to be an ambassador?
An ambassador is a representative of a country or a kingdom, sent to another land to represent the interests of their home country. Ambassadors are expected to faithfully represent their king or government, to promote their interests, and to negotiate on their behalf.
In the same way, as followers of Jesus Christ, we are ambassadors for Him. We are His representatives in this world, sent to promote His interests, to proclaim His message, and to negotiate reconciliation between God and humanity.
The appeal of God
In 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul says that God is making an appeal through us. This appeal is a call to reconciliation, a call to be restored to a right relationship with God. God is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). He is calling out to humanity, offering forgiveness and salvation through Jesus Christ.
As ambassadors for Christ, we are the instruments through which God makes this appeal. We are the mouthpieces, the messengers, the representatives of God in this world. Our words, our actions, and our lives should reflect the heart of God, calling people to reconciliation with Him.
The message of reconciliation
The message of reconciliation is at the heart of the gospel. It is the good news that God has provided a way for us to be reconciled to Him, through faith in Jesus Christ. It is the message that Jesus preached, that the apostles preached, and that we are called to preach today.
As ambassadors for Christ, we are to proclaim this message to the world. We are to share the love of God, the forgiveness of God, and the salvation of God with everyone we meet. We are to be the embodiment of this message, living lives that reflect the character of Christ and the heart of God.
The call to reconciliation
In 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul writes, "We beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God." This is a call to action, a call to respond to the appeal of God. It is a call to turn away from sin, to turn away from self, and to turn to God.
As ambassadors for Christ, we are to extend this call to others. We are to invite people to respond to the appeal of God, to receive His forgiveness, and to enter into a right relationship with Him.
Conclusion
2 Corinthians 5:20 is a powerful reminder of our role as followers of Jesus Christ. We are ambassadors for Christ, representing His interests, proclaiming His message, and negotiating reconciliation between God and humanity. May we take this calling seriously, and may we faithfully represent our King in this world.
