Every civilized country sends ambassadors to live in various foreign countries and represent their homeland. In 2 Corinthians 5:20, we are called Christ’s ambassador, “as though God were making his appeal through us.” As an ambassador of Christ, you are being called to live your life worthy of the gospel of Jesus (Philippians 1:27). As hard as it might be at times, you must never forget Who you represent.
Throughout your life, you will represent many things. For instance, I represent my family. I also represent my ministry and a leader in my church and community. You represent your school, family, and group of friends. In college, you might describe a social group (like a Greek organization or club), maybe a ministry, and your school. Before you become a representative of various groups in college, it will be essential to remember that your first allegiance is to your ambassadorship in Christ.
John is a pastor and is very well-known in his community. He tells a story of taking his three young sons shopping one day at Walmart. As they were heading back to the car, John was approached by a man he did not recognize. The man explained that he knew John was a local pastor and had, therefore, followed him around the store, watching him interact with his kids to see if he was the “real deal.” The man decided that John was real about his witness and had stopped to tell him so.
Once it is known that you are a Christian and are serious about your faith, people will be watching you. Some people will be watching you to see if you are for real, and others will be watching in the hope that you will fail, so they can feel better about themselves. I think that both are reasons to make sure that you do not cause someone to stumble. So many college students hide who they are in Christ (at least for a short time) to be accepted and liked. Matthew 5:14-16 says, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Before you join an organization on campus or get too involved with an individual or group, you need to stop and ask yourself the following questions as you try to protect your witness:
1. Can I be involved and still be a city on a hill?
2. Will this individual or group make me cover my light?
3. Can I represent Jesus and this commitment, too?
4. Does this individual or group represent the same things I represent?
The answer to these questions will be very important as you decide what you will represent in college.