Being a Brand Ambassador for Christ is Non-Negotiable
Highlight: Being a Christ ambassador isn’t optional. It’s non-negotiable. It’s who you are.
Inspired by Dr. Eric Mason’s book, Rebranding the Church
When you step into the waters of baptism, that moment isn’t just symbolic; it’s a declaration. You’re saying to the world, “I belong to Jesus.” But baptism is only the beginning. Immediately after, discipleship must follow. Jesus Himself said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31-32).
Discipleship means more than just showing up to church on Sundays. It’s about letting God’s Word get written on the tablet of your heart so deeply that it shapes your thoughts, your decisions, your relationships, and your future. It’s about being equipped to go out and evangelize, to share the gospel boldly (Matthew 28:19-20). This isn’t optional. Hebrews 6:4-6 makes it clear: once you’ve tasted the goodness of Christ, you’re called to grow. If you refuse to live it out, you risk becoming lukewarm, and Revelation 3:15-16 warns that lukewarm Christians will be spit out, forfeiting blessings here on earth and rewards in heaven.
God doesn’t leave us nameless in this mission. He gives us an identity: Christ’s ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20). That’s not just a title, it’s a calling.
What’s a Christ Ambassador?
Dr. Eric Mason, founder and lead pastor of Epiphany Fellowship in Philadelphia, explains it best in his book Rebranding the Church. In the chapter Brand Ambassadors, he writes:
“A brand ambassador is a person who is paid to endorse or promote a particular company’s products or services. However, that definition leaves out the most important characteristic of brand ambassadorship: a strong relationship with a brand.”
Think about it. A sneaker brand ambassador doesn’t just wear the shoes; they embody the lifestyle, vibe, and culture of that brand. In the same way, a Christ ambassador doesn’t just talk about Jesus; they live Him out. They promote His kingdom everywhere they go, while staying rooted in a strong relationship with Him.
A bad ambassador misrepresents the brand. They live contrary to its values. And when it comes to Christ, misrepresentation isn’t just embarrassing, it’s dangerous. It confuses people, turns them away from the gospel, and dishonors the One we claim to follow.
Jesus told His disciples, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of people” (Matthew 4:19). That wasn’t just for the twelve apostles; it’s for every believer. Once you’ve been converted, you’re called to fish for souls, to bring more people into God’s kingdom. This isn’t just the job of pastors or missionaries (Ephesians 4:11-17). Every single believer is drafted into this mission.
How Do You Become One?
It starts with discipleship. New believers need guidance right away, because the enemy is quick to attack. “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Satan loves to target those who are fresh in the faith, hoping to stunt their growth before they can spread the gospel.
That’s why discipleship matters. You can’t represent Christ if you don’t know Him. And you can’t know Him without knowing His Word. Jesus is the Word. Spending time with Him daily, in prayer, in Scripture, in worship, builds the relationship that makes you a strong ambassador.
Being an ambassador doesn’t mean you have to stand behind a pulpit. It means repping Christ everywhere:
At school, when your classmates are watching how you handle pressure.
At work, when your integrity sets you apart.
At home, when your family sees patience and love in you.
On social media, when your posts reflect light instead of darkness.
Even at the mall, the movies, or on vacation — Christ goes with you everywhere.
Your character, your speech, your actions, all of it should point people to Him.
The Difficulties of Being a Christ Ambassador
Let’s be real: it’s not easy. Paul warned, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). And Eric Mason says it plainly:
“The world loves it when the church takes an L.”
Think about it. When a pastor or church member messes up, the video goes viral. Millions of views, endless criticism. But when the church feeds the poor, mentors kids, or serves the community, it barely gets noticed. As ambassadors, we live under a spotlight where people are waiting for us to fail. Some will even tempt us on purpose, just to watch us misrepresent Christ.
And the struggles aren’t only outside the church. Sadly, division inside the church can be just as destructive. Mason warns:
“One of the biggest deterrents to living as a brand ambassador for Christ is divisiveness. Divisiveness always distracts from the mission of God by putting the focus on some side issue.”
Complaining without solutions, criticizing leaders in front of new believers, and stirring up drama all weaken the mission. Constructive criticism is healthy, but when it’s delivered with the wrong motive, it can cause people to stumble.
The truth is, the church isn’t just pastors or leaders. It’s all of us. Every member is called to contribute, to build up, to represent Christ together.
Conclusion
There’s no such thing as an “average” church member. Eric Mason reminds us:
“The truth is, you are far from average in God’s eyes. You are a chosen ambassador, uniquely positioned in your workplace, neighborhood, and social circles to represent Christ.”
That’s powerful. You’re chosen. You’re positioned. You’re called.
If you’ve placed your faith in Jesus, you’re not just a believer; you’re His representative. Your life, your words, your actions are meant to spread His message until He calls you home or returns.
Being a Christ ambassador isn’t optional. It’s non-negotiable. It’s who you are.
