It is my desire to be an effective ambassador for Jesus Christ and I am willing to bet that many of you reading this share that same desire.
I find that if I’m not vigilant and intentional about my character, it’s easy to become shrill, thoughtless, unkind, uncharitable, self-centered…Christ and His Kingdom deserve better than that, though, and reflecting on the Ambassador’s Creed helps me to live closer to my calling." [2]
Greg Koukl of Stand to Reason has compiled an "Ambassador's Creed" that is worth repeating here:
An ambassador for Christ is…
- Ready. An Ambassador is alert for chances to represent Christ, will not back away from a challenge or an opportunity, and will not be stumped by the same challenge twice.
- Patient. An Ambassador won’t quarrel, but will listen in order to understand, then will with gentleness seek to respectfully engage those who disagree.
- Reasonable. An Ambassador has informed convictions (not just feelings), gives reasons, asks questions, and aggressively seeks answers.
- Tactical. An Ambassador adapts to each unique person and situation, maneuvering with wisdom to challenge bad thinking, presenting the truth in an understandable and compelling way.
- Clear. An Ambassador is careful with language and will not rely on Christian lingo or gain unfair advantage by resorting to empty rhetoric.
- Fair. An Ambassador is sympathetic and understanding towards others and will acknowledge the merits of contrary views.
- Honest. An Ambassador is careful with the facts and will not misrepresent another’s view, overstate his own case, or understate the demands of the Gospel.
- Humble. An Ambassador is provisional in his claims, knowing that his understanding of truth is fallible. He will not press a point beyond what his justification allows.
- Attractive. An Ambassador will act with grace, kindness, and good manners. He will not dishonor Christ in his conduct.
- Dependent. An Ambassador knows that effectiveness requires joining his best efforts with God’s power. [1]
Koukl suggests revisiting the creed on a regular basis:
"The creed has been a great help to me. I reread it every month as a regular reminder of the kind of man I want to be for Christ.
I find that if I’m not vigilant and intentional about my character, it’s easy to become shrill, thoughtless, unkind, uncharitable, self-centered…Christ and His Kingdom deserve better than that, though, and reflecting on the Ambassador’s Creed helps me to live closer to my calling." [2]
Courage and Godspeed,
Chad
Footnotes:
1. Greg Koukl, Virtues of an Ambassador for Christ- Everyday, Jul. 25, 2013.
2. Ibid.
2. Ibid.
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