Ambassadors Social Group Discussion - Members ONLY

The Fire Rises · Oct 5, 2014

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The Fire Rises · Oct 5, 2014

My fellow Ambassadors,

What does it take to represent Christ to the world? What attributes/skills are needed to be an effective ambassador for God? How are we to reply to challenges raised by skeptics, especially when we're not sure how to answer? What does the have to say Bible about all of this?

Our goal is to work together, as a team, to answer questions like these.
But before we jump into the thick of it, let's get to know each other, shall we?

If you would like, tell everyone a bit about yourself (your occupation, hobbies, interests, etc.) and/or why you decided to join this social group.

Here's a general question to get the ball rolling: If you could pick only one movie/movie series to watch for the rest of your life, which would be your favorite, and why? Everyone has one, and there are no wrong answers (with the possible exception of "Twilight", hehe

).

Personally, I would probably pick "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy because, in my nerdy opinion, it is an amazingly epic masterpiece

(It may take awhile for people to trickle in, so we may wait a bit before starting the discussion)

Thanks, everyone!

Ryan

St_Worm2 · Oct 6, 2014

The Fire Rises said:
My fellow Ambassadors,

What does it take to represent Christ to the world?

Hi Ambassadors, this might seem a little on the foundational side for this group, but first and foremost has to be "knowing" Him (Matthew 7:23; 1 Corinthians 2:12-16). How can anyone faithfully, truly, and lovingly represent the Lord to others if they don't know Him themselves .. :scratch:

Granted, this study group is looking into apologetics, which requires one to possess a number of attributes/skills to be effective, but for witnessing, not much more than knowing Him is required (in fact, too much knowledge can get in the way sometimes, yes?).

That's enough from me. Somebody else can jump in now ..

Wait, there's more ...

The Fire Rises said:
If you would like, tell everyone a bit about yourself (your occupation, hobbies, interests, etc.) and/or why you decided to join this social group.

I am a symphony musician who now sells insurance for a living. I enjoy sports and am one of the coaches on my son's hockey team. There are a whole bunch of things I am still interested in pursing, local missions, theology, Scripture memorization, old man hockey, backpacking, tennis, scuba diving, golf, etc., and I certainly enjoy most of the time I am able to spend here, but my aging body and my huge family, with members who have been getting sick and dying on an all too regular basis for about 12 years now, keep me from most of that a LOT of the time. You continue:

The Fire Rises said:
Here's a general question to get the ball rolling: If you could pick only one movie/movie series to watch for the rest of your life, which would be your favorite, and why? Everyone has one, and there are no wrong answers (with the possible exception of "Twilight", hehe ).

For me, it's the Twilight Series. What can I say, what Christian man doesn't appreciate vamps and wolves duke'n it out or make'n out .. :doh:

Just kidding! If I had to pick just one movie, I suppose it would have to be Ted Turner's, "Gettysburg" (though I'd love to add the documentary about Mother Teresa in too if I could .. and I'm not Catholic)!! Of course I LOVE SciFi too..................... I'll stop .. :sorry:

Thanks everybody, thanks Ryan!!

Next ......................

Susie~Q · Oct 6, 2014

What does it take to represent Christ to the world?

Hmmmm, for me, that is difficult to answer, I would say a solid faith foundation.

I have to admit, I have a weak faith at this time, I am going through so much and God seems so distant to me right now, and if this is going to be a deep, discussion group, I may have to sadly back out. I want to learn all I can however.

If you would like, tell everyone a bit about yourself (your occupation, hobbies, interests, etc.) and/or why you decided to join this social group.

Well, I am an American living in New Zealand, I moved here because I married a kiwi, we met here in CF actually. I am looking for work, prices are so high here, and since Steve is not working much, he needs my help. I have training in office work, but have not worked in 20 years, I took care of my parents most of those years. *sigh* My hobbies include, photography, walking, working with my two Shetland Sheepdogs (toy Lassies), reading and listening to music. My favourite music is soft, easy listening, instrumentals, smooth jazz, big band (my dad was a big band musician before I was born, he played lead alto with Clyde McCoy) I am embarrassed to say I am not into most Christian music, now, I DO like the Christian Instrumental CD's, but singing, not really. Sorry. One of my friends on here from another forum, introduced me to some Christian Metal, the group, "Theocracy" I was surprised that I liked some of the songs they did. I also like Carmen.

Here's a general question to get the ball rolling: If you could pick only one movie/movie series to watch for the rest of your life, which would be your favourite, and why? Everyone has one, and there are no wrong answers (with the possible exception of "Twilight", hehe ).

I am not familiar with "Twilight" LOL. My favourite movie/series would be the "Love Comes Softly" Series. I love pioneer stories, and these have a wonderful Christian base line as well. I have a lot of other favourites, most of from the 1940's and early 50's.

Well, I guess that is all. I am looking forward to reading what others have to say.

God bless everyone.

Now, who is next??????

brinny · Oct 6, 2014

Hi. Hmmmmm...good questions....i'll start with:

What does it take to represent Christ to the world?

This verse maybe (living it out) is how GOD works through us in our thoughts, words, and deeds and our view of skeptics and those who do not know God yet. Perhaps what i'm saying is that it is Christ speaking and not us that will win hearts, minds, and souls. It is not "us" who saves anyone. It is God's Holy Spirit Who wins hearts, minds, and souls. And He can do this through us, His vessel, only if we are living out this verse:

"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?" ~Micah 6:8

The Fire Rises · Oct 7, 2014

Wow!!

I love all of the comments made thus far, it never ceases to amaze me how such small groups of people can display such a vast array of personalities/interests/hobbies. I'm thrilled to have all of you here.

I think we'll wait a bit longer for anyone else to make their way here, I will likely post the first part of the actual discussion sometime tomorrow. In the meantime, why not continue chatting?

David (St Worm) - I got a good laugh out of your Twilight comment, and was relieved to see that you were in fact joking, haha. I'm also a pretty big Sci-Fi fan - have you heard much about the new movie "Interstellar" releasing next month? It deals with time travel and deep space technology, and boasts an A-list cast of actors (I do have to admit that I'm a Christopher Nolan fanboy, who happens to be directing this movie, so I may be hyping it up more than others). I think it's worth checking out though!

Susie - It warms my heart to know that you haven't been exposed to Twilight. As far as your favorite flicks go, I also enjoy pioneer/western movies. My favorite is probably "Jeremiah Johnson" with Robert Redford, if only for nostalgic reasons. As far as your musical preferences, I'm right there with you as far as jazz/big band music is concerned, I played in my school's jazz band for awhile, long enough to form an appreciation for that area of music. It's pretty awesome that your father played with Clyde McCoy, that must have been an experience!

Brinny - I like what you said about the Holy Spirit, and it's something I have not really emphasized enough. Ambassadors to foreign nations must keep in close, constant contact with their sovereign to adequately represent the sovereign's interests and not lose sight of his/her purpose. In the same way, I believe that we should keep God at the center of this group, and recognize that He is the potter, while we are the clay. I would encourage all of us to pray that this group remains humble and reminded of the fact that, at the end of the day, it is God who is to lead us in our endeavors, not any one member or members. Thanks for the insight!

TheyCallMeDavid · Oct 7, 2014

For me, to best represent Christ to the World means to utilize my God given spiritual gifts for which I have 3 major ones that was uncovered thru a Spiritual Gift Inventory Test . Knowing what these gifts were, allows me to hone these in such a way that they are used for maximum impact with Others. Another way, is for me to develop the Fruits of the Spirit in my life with Gods power which are the same attributes of Christs person. Finally, I see myself needing to be ready with an answer to whatever question or misconception someone raises in my presence concerning the Christian Faith...and that's where coming up to speed on Christian Apologetics is necessary. David.

P.S. On the movie thing...I think id choose another number of 'Jesus' movies that show his life, death, and resurrection .

brinny · Oct 7, 2014

This is not a "movie" per se, although it's based on a movie that i have forgotten the name of....this video i found most precious, because if i was standing on the shore like Moses is depicted here, as God starts of all things, parting the Red Sea, as the Pharaoh's soldiers are closing in quickly from the rear of the Israelites as they are literally trapped between the army and the Red Sea, my face would've been just like the actor's who is depicting Moses in this scene.

THEN it happens. God moooooves.

Precious.

Still - Be Still and Know that I am God! - YouTube

The Fire Rises · Oct 9, 2014

Well everyone, I think we've allowed enough time for any stragglers to appear. Hopefully others will show up in due time. Let's get down to business.

I asked you what you think it takes to represent Christ to the world - in other words, what it takes to be a good ambassador. You all gave very thought-provoking answers, and to summarize them...

Effectively representing Christ to the world requires:

- Close communion with God
- A solid foundation for our faith
- Humility (realizing that at the end of the day, only God can save, and not us)
- Utilizing our God-given spiritual gifts
- The ability to give a defense for our faith in Christ/clear away misconceptions

It seems to me that these can all be organized into three broad categories:
Knowledge, wisdom, and character - I believe that these are the core ingredients of what it takes to be an effective ambassador for Jesus Christ.

Some of you may have seen this before on the homepage, but I think it's worth repeating. This is a brief video put forth by an international Christian ministry that describes these three ingredients and how they all fit together:

As a follow-up:
What actions do you think each of us can take to improve in each of these three areas?

http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zi817IwU3DI

TheyCallMeDavid · Oct 11, 2014

Knowledge / Wisdom / Character :

For myself, I plan to gain knowledge of God, Christ, The Bible by studying The Bible more and reading certain spiritual written material in addition.

I plan to gain more wisdom on how and when to share the knowledge by allowing the H.S. to guide me into an opportunity and to be sensitive to the other persons responses I hear.

I plan to increase my Christian Character by asking God to make me more self controlled , to be filled with the Spirit daily, and to be on guard for temptations that could ruin my testimony.

brinny · Oct 11, 2014

Oh Lord, help me NOT to be a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.....the video hit da nail on da head in so many ways...

The "elements" in order to be an ambassador for Christ, maybe is to yes, KNOW God, and thus to KNOW that it is HE Who is "sending" us, for only then will the motivation be rising from His heart and mind, and not ours. The other is a less-talked about factor, and perhaps the most crucial one. And that is to "fear God", which when broken down, means to have a Godly respect and reverence for Him, El Elyon, the Most High, the living God. Perhaps David, Job, Abraham, and Moses are good examples of Godly men who "feared God" and thus God called them His "friends" for through the "fearing Him", they truly "KNEW" Him, as it is written in this phenomenal verse, and they "delighted" in Him:

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." ~Proverbs 9:10

Finally, in summary, there is no stepping out in doing anything unless it is in God's unction and strength and not ours. For it is He Who prepares our hearts, and minds and "equips" us before sending us.

Sooooo...until then, we do this:

"Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." ~Psalm 46:10

And this:

"in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength:" ~Isaiah 30:15b

That said, there was a reason that Jesus sent His disciples out two by two, and that is because they needed the support, encouragement, and prayers of one another. They NEEDED each other.

Same here. We NEED each other, especially in praying for one another.

God bless us, ev'ry one. :groupray:

Rebecca Sue · Oct 11, 2014

Hello everyone I am here, my computer is down & a challenge to read and post in detail on my phone but am going to try..
I guess my favorite movie is probably Big Fish. I enjoy creating and especially art journaling, spinning yarn by hand & weaving or knitting. I feel a personal relationship with God and Bible study are crucial to sharing the Lord with others. The videos are very good & am excited about this group. Here is a scripture I added to my journal this morning. It prompted me to get on this thread today & do the best I could with the phone.
In your hearts honor Christ, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness & respect.
1 Peter 3:15
Gentleness & respect are crucial I believe! So very important how we represent Christ.
Also have been personally feeling the need to have a good response to why bad things happen to good people. It is easy to search scriptures and know this, but to convey it to others properly is my challenge. I have a few people I know hung up on this. Just sharing something I am trying to find the proper words for. Also forgot to mention the importance of prayer & hearing God's voice. Critical. I hope I have made sense, and have a computer soon. Going to stop & give my thumb a rest. God bless you all, praying for discernment for us all as we embark on this journey together!

St_Worm2 · Oct 13, 2014

Knowledge is something that is gained and, unfortunately, can easily be lost if what you learned is not accessed regularly. That's not to say that the HS cannot bring verses/passages back to mind at times, but how much easier must it be for Him to work with a mind that is filled with God's Word?

That's why I believe in Scripture memorization (a Christian discipline that helps us learn how to meditate upon and remember God's word). Not so much the entire Bible (though that would obviously be nice, but who has the time?), rather, I have seen that if you memorize a few key verses/passages, perhaps a 100 or so, broken down into specific topics of great importance (i.e. Topical Memory System), Biblical answers to the questions we are asked almost always seem readily available, especially where "rubber meeting the road/on the spot" apologetics is concerned.

There are many other advantages to the believer as well. If you'd like to know more, just ask (or PM me).

Yours and His,
David

"Thy word I have treasured in my heart,
that I may not sin against Thee"
Psalm 119:11

St_Worm2 · Oct 13, 2014

Rebecca Sue said:
Hello everyone I am here, my computer is down & a challenge to read and post in detail on my phone but am going to try..

Bummer but, GREAT JOB nonetheless ..

I wouldn't have known it was a phone if you hadn't told me.

Rebecca Sue said:
Gentleness & respect are crucial I believe! So very important how we represent Christ.

So true, and so difficult to remember sometimes when we are under pressure to find an answer, especially if the person asking the question is acting in a way that would be considered unbecoming of a Christian (of course, that's when we need to remember that they aren't "Christians" and we shouldn't expect them to act like one ..

) This is another great thing about this place, it gives us a chance to make a 'habit' out of treating those who are nice to us (and especially those who aren't), with the "gentleness and respect" that they deserve (even when everything inside us tells us we're hurt and should retaliate in kind .. :doh:

).The first "ingredient" in "love" is "patience" (according to 1 Corinthans 13:4). This is a great place to practice being just that!

Rebecca Sue said:
Also have been personally feeling the need to have a good response to why bad things happen to good people. It is easy to search scriptures and know this, but to convey it to others properly is my challenge. I have a few people I know hung up on this. Just sharing something I am trying to find the proper words for.

Or why good things happen to bad people ..

I usually mention something about free will playing a huge role in this, as well as the Lord using suffering to our advantage, especially as Christians, to stop us from taking our eyes off Him and becoming too attached to this world and its lusts and pleasures. I'm not certain I'm totally satisfied with that answer however as the atheists I talk to definitely never are (of course, their principle thrust is to knock the idea of God and any reason for why He does what He does down as far as they possibly can)!

Yours and His,
David

Rebecca Sue · Oct 13, 2014

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it. I agree with your answers re suffering, perhaps I just need to practice. Blessings to you!!

brinny · Oct 16, 2014

I'll be leaving the group.

Peace y'all.

The Fire Rises · Oct 24, 2014

Hey guys,

Sorry for such a late reply, I've been battling the behemoth that is my midterm project this past week, I've just now vanquished the beast.

The productively of this group depends largely on how often we're all able to get online. That should be easier for me going forward, so I hope to talk with on a more regular basis. Just to take a roll call...

If you could please just post a quick reply to let me know you're still here, that would be much appreciated. I guess I should throw out a question for you to answer while I'm at it...

What is one of your favorite worship songs/hymns to sing and/or listen to? (Or for people such as myself, whose "singing" does a disservice to the song, it could be the tune you hum or whistle to, whatever you prefer!)

Thanks, I look forward to getting back in touch with all of you!

In His Name,

Ryan

TheyCallMeDavid · Oct 25, 2014

Hey Fire, My all time favorite song has to be 'I exalt thee' as far as deep praise n worship goes. Ive had the Holy Spirit visit me many time while singing that song to God.

Criada · Oct 25, 2014

I'm still here - our internet has been out for a while so Ive been very limited in access.
Here now, and looking forward to the discussion

My favourite film is Dead Poets Society, favourite hymn is 'Oh for a Thousand Tongues' and favourite worship song is 'These are the Days of Elijah'

The Fire Rises · Oct 26, 2014

Great to see both of you! I'll have to check out those worship songs, I've been trying to compile a playlist for long car drives. "Be Thou My Vision" and "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" are two that I encountered while visiting my grandmother's church, their choir did sung both of them beautifully.

I think we'll wait a bit longer so hopefully any others can have time to check in. If you have any friends on CF that you are interested in this type of discussion group, please let them know when you get the chance. The more the merrier!

Ambassadors Social Group Discussion - Members ONLY

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