A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.
The saying sets two kinds of messengers against each other, with opposite ends for each. The wicked messenger falls into trouble and mischief through his own unfaithfulness. The faithful ambassador brings well-being and health to those who receive him. Faithfulness means representing God truthfully, carrying His message as given without turning aside. Such true representation brings health to others rather than harm. By contrast, disregard for God's law marks the wicked ambassador, who falsely proclaims peace and safety. That false assurance lulls hearers into delay instead of preparing them. When judgment comes, such ambassadors stand condemned for their deception.
The saying sets two kinds of messengers against each other, with opposite ends for each. The wicked messenger falls into trouble and mischief through his own unfaithfulness. The faithful ambassador brings well-being and health to those who receive him. Faithfulness means representing God truthfully, carrying His message as given without turning aside. Such true representation brings health to others rather than harm. By contrast, disregard for God's law marks the wicked ambassador, who falsely proclaims peace and safety. That false assurance lulls hearers into delay instead of preparing them. When judgment comes, such ambassadors stand condemned for their deception.