Every believer is called to serve others within the body of Christ. This calling is not just for a select few but for each one of us, as members of the church. This service is rooted in love, humility, and the acknowledgment of the gifts (“charismata”) given to us by the Holy Spirit.
This study aims to inspire and challenge each of us to actively engage in serving one another, using the gifts God has graciously given us. It’s a call to action, a reminder that in the body of Christ, everyone is important, and every act of service, no matter how small, contributes to the growth and health of the church.
As we journey through this study, let us open our hearts to the leading of the Holy Spirit, asking God to reveal to us our role in His divine plan of service. May we be encouraged, edified, and equipped to serve one another with the love and humility that Jesus Himself modeled for us.
Matthew 20:26-28 “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave – just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” The words for ‘servant’ and ‘slave’ here are “διάκονος” (diakonos) and “δοῦλος” (doulos), emphasizing humility and selflessness in leadership.
John 13:14-17 “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.” Jesus demonstrates servant leadership, encouraging his disciples to humbly serve one another.
Galatians 5:13 “For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” The word for ‘serve’ here is “δουλεύετε” (douleuete), derived from “δοῦλος” (doulos) meaning ‘slave’ or ‘servant’. This implies serving with a humble, selfless attitude.
1 Peter 4:10 “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” The term “διακονοῦντες” (diakonountes) means ‘ministering’ or ‘serving’. It suggests that each believer’s unique gifts are meant to be used in service to others, reflecting God’s diverse grace.
Philippians 2:3-4 “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” This is a call for selflessness and humility in serving others, modeling the attitude of Christ.
Acts 20:35 “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Part of Paul’s farewell speech to the Ephesian elders, emphasizing the joy and blessing found in serving others.
Romans 12:6-13 This passage lists various gifts and actions like prophesying, serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, showing mercy, being hospitable, etc. It provides a comprehensive view of how believers can serve in the church through various gifts. Each person is encouraged to use their specific gifts in a manner that contributes positively to the life of the church. The word used for “gifts” in this passage is “χαρίσματα” (charismata), derived from “χάρις” (charis), meaning ‘grace’ or ‘favor’. In the New Testament, “charismata” typically refers to ‘grace-given gifts’ or ‘spiritual gifts’. These are abilities or talents bestowed by the Holy Spirit, which are not earned or merited, but given freely by God’s grace to believers. The concept of “charismata” in this context is not just about personal enrichment or self-expression but is intrinsically linked to serving others within the body of Christ. The diversity of gifts is seen as a means for the church to function holistically, with each member contributing their unique skills and abilities for the common good. The underlying principle is that these gifts should be used selflessly and with love, reflecting the grace through which they were given.
1 Corinthians 12:7 “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all.” This verse highlights that spiritual gifts are given for the common good, not for personal benefit.
1 Corinthians 14:26 “What then shall we say, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. Everything must be done so that the church may be built up.” This verse speaks to the orderly and edifying use of spiritual gifts in the church. It highlights that everyone has something to contribute to the building up of the church, and that all contributions should aim at edification.
Galatians 6:1-3 “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently… Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ… If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves.” This passage emphasizes the responsibility of believers to support and restore one another in a spirit of gentleness and humility. It highlights the importance of bearing each other’s burdens, which is a practical way of serving and living out the principles of Christ’s teachings.
2 Corinthians 9:7 “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This verse emphasizes the attitude behind giving – it should be done willingly and cheerfully, not out of obligation or pressure. It reflects a heart of generosity, which is a key aspect of service in the Christian community.
Ephesians 4:14-16 “that we may no longer be children, tossed back and forth … but speaking truth in love, we may grow up in all things … as each person does their own special work.” Godly ministry prepares God’s people to serve one another. Therefore, an important sign of maturity in a local church is how all the members serve the whole body of Christ in love. It is important to understand that the Greek word used for body is σῶμα (sōma), which refers to the entire body of all Christians, not just a local group of believers. Please read: What is the One True Church? (many ekklēsía one sṓma)
2 Thessalonians 1:3-4 “We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love all of you have for one another is increasing. Therefore, among God’s churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring.” This passage commends the Thessalonian believers for their growing faith and increasing love for one another. It shows how mutual support, especially in times of hardship, is a vital aspect of service in the Christian community.
Hebrews 6:10 “For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” This verse reassures believers that God recognizes and values their service to fellow believers (the saints).
In summary, these verses collectively teach that service in the church is not just for a selected few but for every believer. It’s an expression of love, humility, and stewardship of the gifts God has given. Each person is called to serve in various capacities, using their unique gifts for the edification of the church body and the glory of God. This service is characterized by selflessness, humility, and a focus on the needs of others, mirroring the example of Jesus Christ.
Digging Deeper
- 8 Gifts of Service for Your Church – You may have thought God could only use superstars. But God is very clear that these 8 gifts have been given to you for service in your church.
- 101 broken people that God used anyway – Throughout the Bible, God demonstrates His love and grace by using broken and flawed people to accomplish His purposes.
- Take up Your Cross and Follow Jesus – The teaching of “taking up your cross” is about understanding the cost of discipleship that might involve self-sacrifice or hardship
- How did the early church meet together? – If we lived 2,000 years ago, what would a church service look like? How did it work? Where did they meet? Could we do that?