Be Christ’s Disciple:Telling Your Story

2 Corinthians 5:11-21

Structure of 2 Corinthians

1. Chapters 1 – 7 contain Apostle Paul’s explanation of his conduct and ministry.

2. Chapters 8 & 9 deal with collections/taking up offerings for the saints in Jerusalem.

3. Chapters 10 – 13 Paul argues his case for having true apostolic authority.

Reasons for Telling Your Story

2 Corinthians 5:11-151. We fear God- Not the judgmental, terrorizing

fear. Rather the reverential, awesome fear. 2. We are proud- Not of who we are or what we

have done. Rather of our identity in Christ.3. We are a blessing- Christ’s selfless devotion

to the Father resulted in His sacrifice for our benefit.

Purpose of Telling Your Story

2 Corinthians 5:16-211. To show people that we are a new creation.

2. To show people how they can be reconciled.

What is an Ambassador?

• Ambassador- Usually the highest ranking diplomat who represents one state and stationed at the host state. Head of embassy.

• Diplomat- A person appointed by one state to conduct diplomacy with another state for the purpose of representing and protecting the interests of the sending state.

What is an Ambassador?

• In the United States of America an ambassador:– Nominated by the President– Confirmed by the Senate– Serves at the pleasure of the President (can be

dismissed at any time)– Answers to the Secretary of State

Diplomatic Functions

1. Reporting- collect and report information that could affect national interests.

2. Advocating- influence and persuade allies and adversaries to achieve goals of home country.

3. Negotiating- principal role is to foster peaceful relations between states.

Personal Stories in the Bible

• Samaritan Woman’s salvation story – John 4:1-42

• Peter’s story about reconciliation – Acts 10:1-11:18

• Paul’s story of his mission – Acts 22: 1-21