How would you like to become an ambassador to another country or the United Nations? Perhaps many members in the Church of God have not realized that after repentance, living faith, and baptism, they become ambassadors for Christ.

In fact, the apostle Paul challenges us in 2 Corinthians 5:20 to be ambassadors for the Kingdom of God. But what does an ambassador really do? There are three dominant characteristics that an ambassador should possess:

1. An ambassador represents another culture or way of life. He does not impose his own opinion or idea, but that of his own country. An ambassador cannot let his personal feelings enter into a discussion. Likewise, as ambassadors of the government of God, we need to be careful that what we say truly represents God. The precedent was set by our Elder Brother Jesus Christ, who said: “...The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works” (John 14:10).

2. An ambassador functions as a servant, faithfully representing his country. He practices hospitality, courtesy, and graciousness. An ambassador realizes his vulnerability as a minority guest in a majority culture. He learns the art of hospitality and warmth. He makes available, but doesn’t push, the culture of his country. So as ambassadors of Christ, we are to exude warmth and friendliness and be “given to hospitality” (Rom. 12:13; 1 Tim. 3:2).

3. An ambassador uses diplomacy and wisdom in dealing with strangers. We should always consider the consequences of what we say and be careful not to injure the feelings of others. And we should strive to bring together people with common interests.

As ambassadors of God’s Kingdom, we should skillfully show how our “country” and another share some common interests. In dealing with others, we must turn agreements into mountains and disagreements into molehills.

The apostle was a master diplomat. In 1 Cor. 10:32-33, he explained his responsibility when dealing with people from diverse cultures: “Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God, just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.”

Our job is not to convert people. It’s up to God to do that. But we are obliged as ambassadors to faithfully represent the government of God in our day-to-day conduct.