Ambassadors for Christ Part 3 - 11/17/2024 Sunday Sermon

The Tabernacle Today

Ambassadors for Christ Part 3 - Matthew 10:34-43

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

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!

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

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

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)

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 - V. 32-33

Jesus died for you, don’t be afraid to take your stand for Him, starting with baptism! - Matthew 10:34-43

“Never was there an age since the name of Christians was known upon the earth, wherein there was such a direct opposition made unto the Person and glory of Christ, as there is in that wherein we live.”

Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of His body, that is, the church. - Col. 1:24

Christ’s suffering actualizes salvation for all who repent and believe; Our suffering is to give lost people access to that saving message.