"Service: Following Christ's Example"
The transformative power of service in our Christian journey. Service is not just a noble act; it's a way of following Christ's example. In Matthew 20:25-28 and Romans 8:29, we find the foundation of our understanding: Jesus, the Son of God, came to serve and calls us to do the same. He set a profound example of humility and selflessness, reminding us that true greatness lies in serving others. In our time together, we will reflect on several essential aspects of service and how it shapes our relationship with God.
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I. Jesus: Our Example of a Servant (Matthew 20:25-28; Romans 8:29)
In Matthew 20:25-28, Jesus made it clear that His mission was not to be served, but to serve. His life was a living testimony of servanthood. He humbled Himself, washed the disciples' feet, and ultimately gave His life as a servant for our salvation. Romans 8:29 reminds us that Christ's purpose was to conform us to His image, including His servant's heart. As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate His selfless service.
- He served to please His Father (Mark 1:11)
- He served without being hindered by temptation (Mark 1:12-13)
- He called others to serve with him; he prepared successors (Mark 1:16-20; 2:14; 3:13-19)
- He remained active (Mark 1:21; etc.)
II. Service: Seizing Opportunities to Serve (Galatians 6:10; Proverbs 3:27) -
Galatians 6:10 encourages us to seize opportunities to serve, especially within the Christian community. It's a call to respond to the needs of others in practical and meaningful ways. Proverbs 3:27 emphasizes the importance of not withholding good when it is within our power to act. Our service should not be confined to grand gestures but also extend to everyday acts of kindness and love.
III. Service to God: Our Offering (Romans 15:16; Philippians 2:17; 2 Timothy 4:6; Hebrews 13:15) -
Our service to God is an offering of praise and gratitude. Romans 15:16 describes it as a priestly duty, where we bring the Gospel to the world. Philippians 2:17 portrays our lives as an offering poured out as a sacrifice. As we grow in faith and service, 2 Timothy 4:6 likens our lives to being poured out like a drink offering. Hebrews 13:15 urges us to offer a continual sacrifice of praise. In these verses, we see that our service to God is more than mere actions; it's a heart dedicated to Him, a fragrant offering, and an act of worship.
Offer because We are administrators, not owners
• God put man in the garden to work there (take care of it) and maintain it. (Genesis 2:15)
• God created us to do good works. (Ephesians 2:10)
• Everything we do or say must be done in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Colossians 3:17, 23-24)
• We are ambassadors for God. (2 Corinthians 5:20)
• We do not belong to ourselves; we were redeemed at a great price. (1 Corinthians 6:20)
IV. Serving God with Grace and Reverence (Hebrews 12:28)
In Hebrews 12:28, we are reminded that our service to God should be accompanied by grace and reverence. Grace means that our service is not a laborious obligation but a joyful response to God's grace. Reverence underscores the awe and respect we should hold for our Heavenly Father. Our service is not casual but done in acknowledgment of His divine presence and guidance.
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V. Serve the Lord Acceptably (John 4:24; James 1:26, 27)
Serving the Lord acceptably is a vital aspect of our Christian journey. John 4:24 teaches us that true worshipers must worship in spirit and truth. This principle extends to our service. James 1:26-27 reiterates the importance of service that is pure and undefiled before God. It's not about rituals but about caring for the most vulnerable and keeping ourselves unspotted from the world. Acceptable service is rooted in genuine love and care, aligned with the heart of God.
- Sermon on Sanctification: The Journey of Sanctification
- Sermon on Righteousness: The Quest for God's Righteousness
- Sermon on Never Give Up: The Power of Persistence and Faith
Conclusion:
Service is a profound expression of our faith in action. By following Christ's example as a humble servant, we fulfill our divine calling. We seize opportunities to serve those around us, recognizing that even small acts can have a significant impact. Our service to God is not mere duty but an offering of love and worship, accompanied by grace and reverence. It should reflect our genuine faith and align with God's heart for the needy and vulnerable.
Let us remember that as we serve, we become the hands and feet of Christ in a world that desperately needs His love. By serving the Lord acceptably, we demonstrate our authentic faith and bring glory to God. May we carry the torch of Christ's selfless service and be a light that shines in the darkness. Through our service, may others come to know the transformative power of Christ and the extraordinary joy of following in His footsteps.
