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How to Conduct Ourselves as Ambassadors for Christ
Article by David F. MaasAs members of God's church, we are reminded by the apostle Paul that our citizenship is in heaven, making us aliens in the physical countries where we reside. Like ambassadors of a foreign government, we must avoid entanglement in the politics of this world, which could distract us from our spiritual purpose. Paul challenges us to be ambassadors for Christ, declaring, "Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God" (II Corinthians 5:20). As ambassadors, we represent the Kingdom of God, serving as members of His diplomatic corps, tasked with reflecting His values and message. An ambassador, whether an Ambassador, Consul General, or junior consul, embodies specific characteristics. He represents another culture and way of life, advancing the positions of his home country rather than personal opinions. He functions as a servant or steward, faithfully representing his nation with hospitality, courtesy, and graciousness. As faithful ambassadors of Christ, we are called to bring health, refreshment, and comfort to those we encounter, following the wisdom of Proverbs 13:17, which states, "A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a faithful ambassador brings health."
Would Jesus Christ Vote? (Part Three)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsWhile it may seem to be the height of patriotism to cast a ballot, Christians are urged to refrain from interfering in the politics of this world.
The Same Mind, Judgment, and Speech (Part Three)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeDespite our differences, Jesus Christ is our commonality. As we pursue His image, we will have greater harmony with those seeking the same thing.
The Art of Tact and Diplomacy
'Ready Answer' by StaffMuch of a Christian's judgment will be based on his interactions with people. Enter tact and diplomacy, two necessary tools in the task of getting along.
Secession (Part One): Is Separation Wrong?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAs members of God's family, we are admonished to separate ourselves from the Babylonish system as Noah prepared himself from a hopelessly corrupt world.
The Sixth Century Axial Period (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)A prophet is one who carries a message from another. A true prophet's message will derive from existing Scripture, even if he is breaking new, unexplored ground.
Things Pertaining to the Kingdom!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsBetween Christ's resurrection and ascension, He appeared to His disciples 10 times within 40 days, instructing them about things pertaining to the Kingdom.
Prepare to Teach
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMembers of God's church are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through them: "we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God" (II Corinthians 5:20). Infused with godly hope and vision, they resolve to act as ambassadors and teachers for the Kingdom of God. An ambassador represents a government that is not yet established on earth, so the church practices and teaches the way of that government now. The church is the kingdom in embryo and the light of the world, pioneering the only true solution: joyful, voluntary submission to God's laws. This means being seen practicing the way of cooperation, courtesy and consideration. Ambassadorship shows in ordinary conduct at the Feast: submitting to directions rather than making oneself an exception, arriving in time for services, staying attentive, and setting an example for children. It also shows in treating problems as challenges to solve with solutions rooted in God's way of life, and in enjoying and tolerating other people. The order, loyalty and unity of God's people show that humans with the Holy Spirit are governable, and that humanity is worth saving. This ambassadorial work is training for the Millennium, when the saints will serve as kings and priests, teaching the world under Christ's authority.
Prophets and Prophecy (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughA prophet is one who speaks for God, expressing His will in words and sometimes signs. Standing outside the system, he proclaims God's purpose, including repentance.
The Commandments (Part Fourteen)
Sermon/Bible Study byMany biblical examples illustrate that when the leader put his faith in God and submitted himself to God's rule, God supernaturally protected His people.
Leaving Sodom
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAmerica resembles the days of Lot and the culture of Sodom. The days of Lot were also productive and wealthy, leading to an excess of idle time.
Unity (Part 3): Ephesians 4 (A)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod alone chooses the servants through whom He works His will. Sometimes the rationale God uses for selecting His vessels defies worldly wisdom.
Hebrews (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJesus blazed a trail, giving a pattern for qualifying (through suffering and resisting sin) for our responsibility as priests, reconnecting man and God.