Diplomatic Immunity
In II Corinthians 5:20 (Modern English Version, MEV) we read:
So we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us. We implore you in Christ’s stead: Be reconciled to God.
We are ambassadors for Christ. An ambassador is an authorized representative or messenger. As believers, we are authorized representatives or messengers on behalf of Christ to a dying world. Let’s explore a couple points of interest about ambassadors.
Ambassadors live and work in the country with whom they are sent by their government to communicate. For example, the U.S. Ambassador to France lives in France and works at the U.S. Embassy in France. As Christ’s ambassadors, He has sent us to this world, so we are to live in this world.
However, an ambassador is set apart from the people of that country. As much as possible, the ambassador is expected to obey the laws of the land in which he/she is working… unless they contradict the laws of the home country. In that case, the laws of the home country take precedent over the laws of the country in which they are living and working. This is true of us as well.
Let’s discuss this second point for a moment. As duly authorized ambassadors of Heaven to the earth, we are to obey the laws of the land. We respect the authority of the people God has placed over us whether in government, at work, at school, etc. The exception is when those laws or rules go against the law of the Kingdom, which is the Word of God. When we are told to abide by laws that go contrary to scripture, we must choose to disobey them.
In the world of foreign diplomacy, there is a term called diplomatic immunity. Diplomatic immunity can be defined as follows:
In international law, the immunities enjoyed by foreign states or international organizations and their official representatives from the jurisdiction of the country in which they are present. The Encyclopaedia Britannica
When the world’s laws or rules go against our Heavenly Father’s rules, we too must invoke diplomatic immunity. At that point, in the eyes of God, we are exempt from the requirements of the world’s law. While the people with whom we are interacting may not understand, and the world may try to apply punishment for our refusal to comply, we are in compliance with Heaven’s law. And when we are in compliance with God’s laws, He goes to work on our behalf.
This is what some call the law of conscience. As Christ’s ambassadors, it is important to stand with God, even when the world persecutes us for it. Jesus said that we would have tribulation in this world, so it should not come as any surprise when they don’t jump up and high-five us for standing against their unholy rules.
I have told you these things so that you will be whole and at peace. In this world, you will be plagued with times of trouble, but you need not fear; I have triumphed over this corrupt world order. John 16:33 (The VOICE)
Our Father is pleased when we stand for righteousness. Don’t be afraid to invoke diplomatic immunity when it is necessary. In the end, you’ll be richly rewarded.
