Let’s recap. As ambassadors, we must have the following qualifications and characteristics: 1) Be citizens of the country we represent. ‘Our citizenship is in heaven.’ 2) Our characters and conduct must reflect the highest values of our country. ‘That our God may make you worthy of his calling’ (2 Thessalonians 1:11 NIV). 3) We must be equipped for the job. ‘There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit’ (1 Corinthians 12:4 NIV). 4) We must be loyal to our country. Now, let’s look at two more qualifications: 5) An ambassador must be an effective communicator. The best ambassadors are bilingual; they speak and understand the language of those around them. In order to give the right answer, we need to understand the question, the person asking it, and where they’re coming from. The Bible says, ‘If someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way’ (1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT). Notice the words ‘always be ready’. We have to be constantly vigilant and prepared for opportunities to share God’s love. 6) An ambassador must be a good diplomat. Ambassadors are most effective when they’re engaging and pleasant as they go about their work. You wouldn’t want someone representing your country who was arrogant and abrasive when dealing with others. Jesus said, ‘By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another’ (John 13:35 NKJV). Our message is the gospel, and our strategy is love! ‘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’ (2 Corinthians 5:20 NIVUK).
