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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: What does it mean to live under the authority of God’s Word as His ambassador? – G.A.

A: An ambassador is a servant of his or her government in a foreign land. An ambassador isn’t free to set policies or develop his own message. In the same way, Christians are ambassadors of God, called to live under the authority of Jesus Christ and the authority of the Scriptures in every area of our personal life. The world isn’t going to believe much of what we say if we don’t back it up in our conduct.

We’re also under the authority of God’s Word in our social relationships. As Christians, we’re part of society with all of its difficulties and problems and hopes. Society is affected by sin, and we know that any effort we make to improve society will always be incomplete and imperfect. We’re not going to build a utopia on Earth. Why? Because of human nature. Sin keeps us from building a paradise on Earth. But we’re to do all we can to live a peaceful life.

Christ is concerned about the whole person, including the society in which he lives. Many of the great institutions of the 19 th century in Great Britain and America were inspired by Christians. Every Christian has been given a gift from God, whether a farmer, a laborer, a doctor, or professor. The Bible says, “Stir up the gift of God which is in you” (2 Timothy 1:6, NKJV), and serve God, and

encourage one another with all authority of God’s Word (see Titus 2:15). As Christians, we have only one authority, one compass: the Word of God.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

©2024 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

(c)2024 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.