Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. (ESV)
2 Corinthians 5:20
In a world that constantly shifts its moral compass, the call for Christians to represent Christ faithfully has never been more urgent. The Apostle Paul’s words to the Corinthians carry weight for every believer today. As those united to Christ by grace through faith, we are not merely called to believe the gospel—we are called to embody it. This calling flows directly from our identity in Christ and the sovereignty of God over every aspect of life.
Being an ambassador for Christ is not an optional role for Christians — it is the inevitable result of being united to Him. But what does it truly mean to live as an ambassador for Christ, and how can we embrace this calling in our daily lives?
Representing the King of Kings
An ambassador represents the authority of another. In the ancient world, kings sent ambassadors to speak on their behalf. Their message was not their own; they were mouthpieces for the throne. So it is with us. As Christ’s ambassadors, we do not proclaim personal opinions or water down truth to appease the culture. We declare the message of reconciliation: that sinners can be made right with God through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
To be an ambassador is to uphold the gospel in both word and deed with reverence, courage, and humility.
The Church as the Embassy
Ambassadors don’t work alone. They operate as part of a diplomatic mission—an embassy. The local church is the embassy of God’s kingdom on earth. It’s where His ambassadors gather, are equipped by the Word, partake in the sacraments, and are sent out into the world. The Reformed faith emphasizes the importance of the visible church as God’s ordained means for growing and sending His people.
To live as an ambassador is also to live in covenant community. We represent Christ best not as isolated individuals, but as a unified body reflecting the glory of our King together.
The Role of An Ambassador for Christ
Being an ambassador for Christ is both a privilege and a challenge. Ambassadors must remain rooted in Scripture, seeking to understand and communicate His truth accurately. While our words matter, our lives as ambassadors must also reflect Christ.
This role involves several key responsibilities:
- Representing Christ’s Character
Ambassadors reflect the character of the one they represent. For Christians, this means living lives marked by love, humility, integrity, and compassion, mirroring the example set by Jesus. - Sharing the Message of Reconciliation
The apostle Paul writes, “God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:19). Our mission is to share the Gospel—the good news that through Jesus, humanity can be reconciled to God. - Living with Purpose
Ambassadors do not act on their own authority or pursue their own agenda. Instead, they align their lives with the purposes of the one who sent them. For Christians, this means prioritizing God’s will and advancing His kingdom on earth.
It’s important to remember that you are not alone in this mission. God empowers His ambassadors through the Holy Spirit, equipping them to fulfill their calling. The same grace that justifies also sanctifies. God is conforming His people to the image of His Son (Rom. 8:29), and our good works—imperfect though they are—bear witness to His transforming power.
This doesn’t mean we live perfectly. We still wrestle with sin. But even in our repentance, we demonstrate the gospel. We show the world that we are not righteous in ourselves, but clothed in the righteousness of Christ. Our humility, integrity, love for neighbor, and faithfulness in hardship all speak volumes. Additionally, the results are in His hands; our role is to be faithful in representing Him, trusting that He will work through us.
A Mission Fueled by Hope
Finally, we live as ambassadors with hope. Christ is reigning now and will return to consummate His kingdom. Our mission is not in vain. As Paul wrote, “We are always of good courage” (2 Cor. 5:6). God is sovereign over salvation. The results of our witness do not depend on our eloquence or effort but on His grace and power.
Living as an ambassador for Christ is a high calling that requires intentionality, courage, and reliance on God. By representing His character, sharing the message of reconciliation, and living with purpose, believers can make an eternal impact in the lives of others. As you embrace this role, remember that you are sent by the King of kings, equipped to bring His light and love to the world.
Soli Deo Gloria.
Dawn Zauner 