What does 2 Corinthians 5:20 teach about being ambassadors for Christ?

The Apostle Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians is rich with theological insights and practical exhortations, and one of the most profound concepts he introduces is that of believers being "ambassadors for Christ." In 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul writes, "We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God" (NIV). This verse encapsulates a significant aspect of Christian identity and mission, and unpacking its layers reveals a multifaceted understanding of what it means to represent Christ in the world.

To begin with, the term "ambassador" in Paul’s context carries significant weight. An ambassador is a high-ranking official who represents the interests and authority of their home country while residing in a foreign land. This metaphor is particularly apt for Christians, who, according to Paul, are citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20) but live in a world that is not their ultimate home. The role of an ambassador involves several key responsibilities: representation, communication, and reconciliation.

Representation

As ambassadors for Christ, believers are called to represent Jesus in every aspect of their lives. This involves embodying His teachings, character, and love. Paul himself sought to live in a way that reflected Christ, urging others to follow his example as he followed Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). This representation is not merely about outward actions but involves a transformation of the heart and mind. Romans 12:2 exhorts believers to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, which enables them to discern and live out God’s will.

The concept of representation also implies accountability. Just as an ambassador is accountable to their sending nation, Christians are accountable to God. This accountability is both a privilege and a responsibility. It is a privilege because it means that believers are entrusted with a divine mission. It is a responsibility because their actions and words can either draw people to Christ or push them away.

Communication

Another crucial aspect of being an ambassador for Christ is the role of communication. Ambassadors are tasked with conveying messages from their home country to the foreign land in which they reside. In the same way, Christians are called to communicate the gospel—the good news of Jesus Christ—to the world. This is evident in the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His followers to go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).

Paul’s own ministry was characterized by a relentless commitment to sharing the gospel. In 1 Corinthians 9:16, he declares, "Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!" This sense of urgency and responsibility should likewise characterize the lives of all believers. The message they are to communicate is one of reconciliation—reconciliation between God and humanity. This is the essence of the gospel, as Paul explains earlier in 2 Corinthians 5:18-19: "All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that 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."

Reconciliation

The theme of reconciliation is central to understanding what it means to be an ambassador for Christ. Reconciliation involves restoring a broken relationship, and in the context of the gospel, it refers to the restoration of the relationship between God and humanity that was fractured by sin. Through Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection, this broken relationship is mended, and believers are given the ministry of reconciliation.

Paul’s plea in 2 Corinthians 5:20, "We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God," underscores the urgency and importance of this message. It is as if God Himself is making His appeal through believers, urging people to accept the reconciliation that Christ has made possible. This appeal is not just a passive invitation but an active and passionate plea. It reflects God’s deep love for humanity and His desire for all people to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4).

Living as Ambassadors

Living as an ambassador for Christ involves a holistic approach to life. It is not limited to specific religious activities or moments of evangelism but permeates every aspect of a believer’s existence. It involves living with integrity, showing compassion, seeking justice, and walking humbly with God (Micah 6:8). It means being a witness to Christ’s love and grace in everyday interactions, whether at home, work, or in the community.

The life of an ambassador for Christ is also marked by a willingness to suffer for the sake of the gospel. Paul himself endured immense hardships, including imprisonment, beatings, and persecution, yet he remained steadfast in his mission. In 2 Corinthians 4:8-10, he writes, "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body." This resilience and commitment are essential qualities for anyone who seeks to be an effective ambassador for Christ.

The Empowerment of the Holy Spirit

It is important to note that believers are not left to fulfill this role in their own strength. The Holy Spirit empowers and guides them in their mission. Jesus promised His disciples that they would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them, enabling them to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). The Holy Spirit equips believers with spiritual gifts, provides wisdom and discernment, and strengthens them in times of trial.

In Ephesians 6:19-20, Paul asks for prayer that he might declare the gospel fearlessly, as he should, even while he is in chains. This request highlights the importance of relying on God’s strength and the support of the Christian community in fulfilling the role of an ambassador. It is a collaborative effort, involving the entire body of Christ working together to advance God’s kingdom.

The Ultimate Goal

The ultimate goal of being an ambassador for Christ is to bring glory to God and to see His kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven. This involves both the proclamation of the gospel and the demonstration of God’s love through acts of service and compassion. It means working towards justice, peace, and reconciliation in a broken world, reflecting the heart of God in all things.

In conclusion, 2 Corinthians 5:20 presents a profound and challenging call for believers to live as ambassadors for Christ. It involves representing Jesus in all aspects of life, communicating the gospel message with urgency and clarity, and actively participating in the ministry of reconciliation. It requires a deep dependence on the Holy Spirit and a commitment to living out the values of God’s kingdom. As believers embrace this calling, they become instruments through which God makes His appeal to the world, inviting all people to be reconciled to Him.