“Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.” –  2 Cor. 5:20

On a number of occasions, I’ve had an opportunity to be a go-between. There was one particular case that was quite challenging but the guy was really desperate to get the girl.

Thankfully, we eventually won the girl over. Indeed, our efforts were worth it as she actually turned out to be an amazing spouse for the brother. 

At one time or another, we’ve all needed someone to stand in for us during negotiations or someone to send to push on our behalf. 

For the most difficult negotiations, we normally want an arbitrator who is knowledgeable, experienced and respected. That’s why the trickiest negotiations are usually entrusted to elders.

In our meditation today, the apostle Paul describes our role in the kingdom of God as that of a negotiator or ‘ambassador.’

It is interesting that the root for the Greek word Paul uses for ‘ambassador’ is ‘presbuteros,’ which means ‘an elder.’

That implies that the role of an ‘ambassador’ (presbuteo) involved the experience, knowledge and character suggested by the word ‘elder.’

For obvious reasons, elders – both men and women – were preferred as envoys or emissaries.

Paul’s listeners were therefore familiar with the concept of presbuteo.

The ‘elder’ was recognized by the community for his experience and gifts of leadership, wisdom, and justice.

So elders were, and are indeed still, set apart to administer justice and to settle disputes.

As trusted and respected ‘ambassadors,’ our role in this world is to represent the interests of the Kingdom of God and live in a way that brings “reconciliation” such that the people of the world get into a good relationship with God.

Today, ambassadors/elders are extremely important people in international politics and relations. 

Diplomats or peace envoys who lead sensitive negotiations are usually highly respected elders.

A few years ago, I had an opportunity to visit Brussels in Belgium where I had a chat with some of Uganda’s top diplomats to the Benelux Countries.

Those mature and extremely polished gentlemen told me about the incredible work they do for their country behind the scenes and away from the cameras.

An ambassador’s job basically involves two aspects—conveying messages from his home Government and representing the Government of Uganda through personal behavior or conduct and not undermining the national interests of Uganda.

Similarly as Christ’s envoy, your role is to convey the oracles of God to the world and to live your life in a manner that represents the interests of the kingdom you represent.

That’s why the Bible admonishes us to ‘be wise in the way you act toward outsiders and to make the most of every opportunity” (Colossians 4:5). 

That implies that evangelism is not just about talking about Jesus; it’s also about showing Christ to people – sharing the Gospel through our character.

As trusted and respected ‘ambassadors,’ our role in this world is to represent the interests of the Kingdom of God and live in a way that brings “reconciliation” such that the people of the world get into a good relationship with God.

Prayer:

Almighty God, thank you for entrusting me with the role of an ambassador for the kingdom. Help me to live my life in a way that represents Christ’s interests. For the glory of your Name, Amen!