Be an Ambassador of Jesus Christ
To be an Ambassador of Jesus Christ, one must be called by God, utterly sincere, anointed by the Holy Spirit, and demonstrate various other qualities.
Zac Poonen emphasizes that Paul exemplified the role of an Ambassador of Jesus Christ, highlighting twelve essential marks that should characterize every believer's life. These include being called by God, sincere, anointed by the Holy Spirit, and loving those served. Paul's total dependence on God, perseverance in ministry, and wise handling of resources are also crucial traits. Furthermore, he served as a model for others, accepted suffering, and aimed for the spiritual maturity of believers. Poonen encourages the congregation to emulate Paul's example in their own lives.
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Paul was an Ambassador of Jesus Christ (2 Cor.5:20). There are 12 marks of an Ambassador of Jesus Christ. Think of these marks in your life.
1. He was called by God (2 Cor.1:1). "An apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God." He did not call himself. God called him. This is very important. Don't go into a ministry if God has not called you.
2. He was utterly sincere (v.12). One of the most important things God requires from us is honesty or sincerity. You may have many weaknesses, but if you are honest and sincere, you can be a true servant of God.
3. He was anointed by the Holy Spirit (v.22). Whatever your other qualifications may be, if you are not anointed with the Holy Spirit, don't try serving God. Forget it, and go and do something else.
4. He loved those whom he served (2Cor.2:4). "I want you to know the love I have especially for you."
5. He depended totally on God (2Cor.3:5). "Our sufficiency is from God." He did not depend on any human resources. He might have used things people gave him, but he did not depend on people. He did not depend on anything human. He depended totally on God.
6. He never gave up (2Cor.4:1). "Since we have this ministry we don't lose heart. We never give up." You may be tempted many times in the ministry to give up. Paul never gave up.
7. He was an example to other people (2Cor.6:3,4). "In everything commending ourselves as servants of God." He was an example to others by his life and by the way he conducted himself in various situations.
8. He never took advantage of anyone (2Cor.7:2). He never tried to make anyone his servant to go and do anything for him. He never took advantage of the goodness of other people's hospitality.
9. He handled money wisely (2Cor.8:20,21;11:19). He was not a burden to anyone in money. He was very careful in handling money. He did not take money from people where he felt they did not accept his ministry.
10. He stayed within the boundaries God appointed for him (2Cor.10:13).
11. He was willing to suffer (2Cor.11:23-33) all those external sufferings. He was also willing to suffer (2Cor.12:9,10) with a thorn in the flesh. God permitted that suffering, and he accepted it.
12. He longed to lead believers to perfection (2Cor.13:9). "We rejoice when you are strong and we pray that you will be made perfect."
This was the apostle Paul. Let's follow in his footsteps and let's serve the Lord like that.
Sermon Outline
- Marks of an Ambassador of Jesus Christ
- Characteristics of a True Servant of God
- Examples of a True Ambassador
- An example to others (2 Cor.6:3,4)
- Did not take advantage of anyone (2 Cor.7:2)
- Handled money wisely (2 Cor.8:20,21;11:19)
Key Quotes
“Don't go into a ministry if God has not called you.” — Zac Poonen
“Whatever your other qualifications may be, if you are not anointed with the Holy Spirit, don't try serving God.” — Zac Poonen
“Our sufficiency is from God.” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Reflect on your life and identify areas where you can improve to become a better Ambassador of Jesus Christ.
- Depend totally on God in all aspects of your life and ministry.
- Be an example to others by living a life that reflects the character of Jesus Christ.