AMBASSADOR

In Biblical usage, an official representative sent out by a ruler on a special occasion for a specific purpose. Older, mature men usually served in this capacity. Thus, the Greek words pre·sbeuʹo (‘act as an ambassador’ [Eph 6:20]; ‘be an ambassador’ [2Co 5:20]) and pre·sbeiʹa (“body of ambassadors” [Lu 14:32]) are both related to the word pre·sbyʹte·ros, meaning “older man; elder.”​—Ac 11:30; Re 4:4.

Jesus also used the peace-promoting work of an ambassador to illustrate our individual need to sue for peace with Jehovah God and give up all to follow in the footsteps of his Son in order to get God’s favor and everlasting life. (Lu 14:31-33) Conversely, he illustrated the folly of being associated with those sending ambassadors to speak against the one on whom God confers kingly power. (Lu 19:12-14, 27) The Gibeonites are good examples of taking action in a tactful, successful suit for peace.​—Jos 9:3-15, 22-27.