In what ways can we be "messengers" of God's truth today? Verse Focus 2 Corinthians 5:20: “Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God.” Why Being a Messenger Matters • God “makes His appeal” through people, not angels or programs—through us (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Ambassadors speak only what their King authorizes; likewise, we carry the King’s unaltered truth (John 17:17). • Eternity is at stake. God “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4). Speaking the Message • Share the gospel clearly—Christ died, was buried, rose, and calls all to repent and believe (1 Corinthians 15:3-4; Mark 1:15). • Explain Scripture—not opinions—as the final authority (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Answer questions “with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). • Use everyday conversations: meals, work breaks, online interactions (Colossians 4:5-6). Living the Message • Consistent character: honesty, purity, humility (Philippians 2:14-15). • Visible good works that point others to the Father (Matthew 5:16). • Love that mirrors Christ’s sacrifice (John 13:34-35). • Forgiveness that reflects God’s mercy (Ephesians 4:32). Supporting the Message • Pray for open doors and boldness (Colossians 4:3; Ephesians 6:19). • Invest in relationships; earn the right to be heard (1 Thessalonians 2:8). • Provide tangible help—food, shelter, encouragement—so truth comes wrapped in compassion (James 2:15-16). • Partner with missionaries and faithful ministries (Philippians 4:15-17). Guarding the Messenger • Daily Scripture intake keeps the message pure (Psalm 119:11). • Fellowship with a sound church for accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Confess sin quickly; a clean vessel carries a clear message (1 John 1:9). • Depend on the Spirit’s power, not human skill (Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 2:4-5). Encouragement from Other Passages • Isaiah 6:8—“Here am I. Send me!” • Romans 10:14-15—Beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news. • 2 Timothy 4:2—Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season. • Matthew 28:19-20—Go and make disciples of all nations. |
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