Found in Translation - Ambassadors

I've had opportunity to minister using interpreters in at least 7 different languages, that I can think of. There have been times where my words have been accurately translated. And others where this hasn't been the case (one translator actually told the people that a minister I was referring to was a Buddhist!). This has been clear to me as I observe the response of the people as they receive the translated words.

When what I have faithfully said is faithfully delivered, there is a marked difference in the response.

It is this way with our representation of Christ. Hence, this week's topic: Found in Translation.

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"Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God." (2 Corinthians 5:20)

This potent verse, teeming with God's confidence in us, speaks to the power of His love and the depth of His grace. He pleads through us.

What Christ committed to Paul, He committed to us.

He writes, just 6 short verses before this, "...the love of Christ compels us...". This is the prerequisite to representing Christ as His ambassador (entire passage here).

If people are to find Christ, they will find Him through us. Our translation of His Spirit-life into a flesh-form, once again, is the greatest hope for the reconciliation of all.

Be a faithful translation of the Word. Be compelled by the love of Christ.