Ambassadors for Christ Part 2 - 11/10/2024 Sunday Sermon

The Tabernacle Today

Ambassadors for Christ Part 2

“Lord, we are forty who have taken a stand for Thee – grant that we be forty who are crowned with victory.”

Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, God making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. - 2 Cor. 5:20

Getting the message to people is on us as Jesus’ ambassadors – what people do with the message is on them!

“THIS generation of Christians is responsible for THIS generation of lost souls around the world.” - Keith Green

Behold and Be wise - V. 16

We don’t go out to engage people in physical struggle. We are in a spiritual battle to win people to Jesus who often don’t see their need for Jesus. We are going out to serve a world that doesn’t always want to be served.

Jesus is telling us to be prepared but not paranoid! Exercise prudence in actions and speaking, but don’t lose a sense of wonder at God’s ability to change hearts before your very eyes!
Beware and be ready - V. 17-18, 21

We see this on the pages of church history – as people have served Christ and witnessed for Him, they have often had conflicts with others. Today 1 in 7 Christians (360 million) worldwide suffer high levels of persecution.

Now the Bible makes clear that being a Christian will equip you to be a better child, sibling, spouse, parent, friend, worker, and citizen. But you will always put Christ first, and some who don’t share your faith will never understand that – and they will treat you with contempt.

In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33

‘Persecution’ exists along a Spectrum:
Mocked - Overlooked - Fired - Beaten - Martyred

Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. - 2 Timothy 3:12

Keep calm and keep going - V. 19-23

“I can’t, but God never said I could – Jesus canin and through me, and He promised that He would.” - Wayne Barber

I think “the end” Jesus speaks of here could refer to multiple situations – the end of the assignment for the age you are in.

The word saved in verse 22 could be translated preserved. As true Christians persevere in their faith, God promises to preserve them amidst the troubles they encounter!

The main practical point is to have a sense of urgency as we witness! We want people to be right with God before He comes in judgment!

3 things to keep in mind when dealing with persecution - V. 24-31

People that don’t like Jesus won’t like His followers - (v. 24-25)

If you fear God you don’t need to fear what man can do to you - (v. 26-28)

A person who truly fears God cares more about what He thinks than what people think. If you fear God you won’t need to fear anything else!

Know that the God who cares for even the smallest of details cares for you - (v. 29-31)

Trying to impact the world for Christ will mean trouble for us – but never conclude that God doesn’t care for you when you go through troubles as you serve Him– His loving care is with you in every circumstance!

Jesus will acknowledge all who acknowledge Him - 32-33

Jesus died for you, don’t be afraid to take your stand for Him, starting with baptism!

“Lord, we are 39 who have taken a stand for Thee – grant that we be 39 who are crowned with victory.”
“Lord, we are 40 who have taken a stand for Thee – grant that we be 40 who are crowned with victory.”