Christian Service
Christian Service6
Not to Be Ministered Unto
By J.R. Miller0MAT 20:28LUK 6:32J.R. Miller emphasizes the call for Christians to minister to all, including those who may be unworthy or unkind, reflecting on Jesus' example of serving others without regard for their character. He challenges the notion of self-centeredness, urging believers to adopt a perspective that values every human life and seeks to serve rather than be served. Miller illustrates that true Christian love transcends personal feelings and requires us to act with compassion towards everyone, regardless of their treatment of us. By seeing others through the lens of Christ's love, we can overcome obstacles to serving even the most difficult individuals. Ultimately, he calls for a radical shift in how we view our purpose in life, from seeking to be served to actively serving others.
The Imperative Dynamic of Christian Service
By T. Austin-Sparks0JHN 21:15T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the imperative dynamic of Christian service, illustrating how true service stems from a deep love for Christ, as exemplified by Peter's journey from self-confidence to brokenness. He highlights that service is not merely a specific role but an integral part of being in the Body of Christ, where every believer has a function. The sermon reflects on Peter's transformation, showing that real service requires losing self-trust and recognizing one's need for Christ's mastery. Sparks encourages believers to appreciate grace, as it empowers them to serve effectively, and underscores that the dynamic of service is a heartfelt response to Christ's love. Ultimately, he reassures that through grace, every believer can be a servant of God.
First Gave Their Own Selves to the Lord
By A.B. Simpson0MAT 5:16ROM 12:102CO 8:5GAL 6:2EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:231TH 5:11HEB 10:241PE 4:10A.B. Simpson emphasizes the necessity of loyalty to both God and the work of ministry for successful Christian service. He notes that a deep relationship with the Lord fosters better relationships with others, contrasting mature Christians with superficial ones who may struggle with eccentricity. Simpson highlights the example of the Corinthians, who first dedicated themselves to the Lord, making it easier for them to support His apostle. He encourages believers to cultivate a spirit of soundness and a heart for service, reminding them of the joy and rewards that come from helping others through prayer, love, and song.
Christian Service From God's Standpoint
By T. Austin-Sparks02KI 17:9MAT 5:16JHN 15:5ROM 12:41CO 12:12EPH 4:12PHP 2:13COL 1:171TI 6:112TI 3:17T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that Christian service from God's perspective is about contributing to the fullness of Christ, rather than merely performing specific roles or functions within the church. He argues that every believer, regardless of their visible role, is called to minister to Christ and His body, and that true service is rooted in the character and state of the servant rather than their qualifications. Sparks highlights that God desires servants who reflect Christ and possess a deep personal relationship with Him, as this is what truly qualifies them for service. He reminds us that the essence of ministry is not in public recognition but in the hidden life of faith and obedience to God. Ultimately, the focus should be on what we are contributing to the body of Christ and how we are reflecting His fullness in our lives.
The Law of Sacrifice
By J.R. Miller0ROM 12:1J.R. Miller emphasizes the call to present our bodies as living sacrifices to God, highlighting that unlike ancient offerings, our sacrifices are to be alive and active in service. He explains that true life involves love and sacrifice, mirroring Christ's example of self-denial and devotion. Miller encourages believers to embody the love of Christ in their daily lives, illustrating that every act of kindness and selflessness is a living sacrifice. He warns against the temptation to rely on others' sacrifices for our own honor, stressing that each individual must bear their own cross and live sacrificially. Ultimately, he assures that such sacrifices lead to a life of beauty, joy, and fulfillment in Christ.
The Christian Worker in Colossians
By A.B. Simpson0A.B. Simpson explores the characteristics of a Christian worker as depicted in Colossians, emphasizing the importance of inspiring others and the diverse roles within the body of Christ. He highlights figures such as Tychicus, the faithful minister; Epaphras, the prayerful minister; and Aristarchus, the suffering minister, each representing different aspects of service and dedication. Simpson encourages believers to fulfill their ministries with faithfulness, prayer, and love, drawing on the examples of Paul and others who exemplified true Christian service. The sermon calls for a commitment to serve God in various capacities, whether in prayer, support, or active ministry, and to recognize the value of every role in the church.