Introduction: Why do you serve God? Some do because they want to; others because they feel they have to. Some because they love to, others because of wrong motives (money, etc.).

1. Because we are ambassadors for Christ (v. 20)
   1. An embassador is a representative of one country who resides in the court or capital of another country.
   2. Our citizenship is in heaven but we represent God’s interests on earth.
   3. Our duty is to reconcile men with God (vs. 18,19).
2. Because of our new life (v. 17)
   1. Because Friday was saved by Robinson Crusoe, he voluntarily became his slave for life–but we serve a better Master!
   2. We ought to have a testimony (Mark 5:19).
3. Because of the love of Christ (v. 14).
   1. His great love for us caused Him to die for us (v. 15).
   2. Therefore, we ought to "love...Him, who died for me."
4. Because of the terror of the Lord (v. 11).
   1. We can know about this (Luke 12:5; Heb. 10:31).
   2. We should persuade men about it! (Jude 23: Acts 2:41; 19:8; 26:27-28; 28:23).
   3. "Plead with them earnestly..."
   4. Have we lost the sense of urgency?
5. Because of the judgment seat of Christ (v. 10).
   1. We will all appear there (Rom. 14:10-12).
   2. We will receive according to our works (Eccl.. 12:13-14; John 5:28-29; Rom. 2:16).
   3. Has our service been wholehearted? Constant? Voluntary?
   4. This should cause us to serve God in a greater way..