Embracing Our God-Given Roles in Ministry
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the importance of church ministries and the role each of us plays in the body of Christ. Reflecting on my own journey, I shared how I was a late bloomer in ministry, only becoming actively involved in my mid-40s. This personal transparency was meant to encourage everyone to avoid the same mistakes and to step into their God-given roles sooner rather than later.
We examined 1 Peter 4:10-11, which emphasizes that each of us has received gifts from God and should use them to serve one another. This is not just a suggestion but a divine mandate. Jesus Himself came to serve, as highlighted in Mark 10:45, and we are called to follow His example. Our labor in the Lord is never in vain, as Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 15:58, and there are eternal rewards for our service.
We also looked at the excuses we often make to avoid serving, such as feeling inadequate like Moses did, or thinking we are too young or too old. Jesus started His ministry at 33, and John the Baptist continued his work into his late 90s. Age is not a barrier to serving God. Past sins should not hold us back either, as God forgives and forgets our transgressions when we repent.
Finally, I provided practical steps for getting involved in ministry, from praying about your gifts to asking Pastor Cody for guidance. There are numerous ways to serve, whether it's ringing the church bell, operating the camera, or even making cards for missionaries. The key is to start somewhere and trust that God has already factored in our imperfections.
### Key Takeaways
1. God-Given Gifts and Service: Each of us has received unique gifts from God, and we are called to use these gifts to serve one another. This is not optional but a divine responsibility. Serving others glorifies God and fulfills our purpose in His kingdom. [13:42]
2. Jesus as Our Example: Jesus came to serve, not to be served. His life was the ultimate act of service, culminating in His sacrificial death. We are called to emulate His example by serving others selflessly, knowing that our labor in the Lord is never in vain. [13:42]
3. Overcoming Excuses: Like Moses, we often feel inadequate and make excuses to avoid serving. However, God equips those He calls. Whether it's a lack of confidence, age, or past sins, none of these should prevent us from stepping into our God-given roles. [15:57]
4. Age is Not a Barrier: Both young and old have roles to play in God's kingdom. Jesus started His ministry at 33, and John the Baptist continued his work into his late 90s. Age should never be an excuse to avoid serving God. [18:22]
5. Practical Steps to Get Involved: Begin by praying about your gifts and seeking God's guidance. Talk to church leaders like Pastor Cody to find out where you can serve. There are many ways to get involved, from simple tasks like ringing the church bell to more involved roles like teaching Sunday school. [23:23]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[1:27] - Introduction to Church Ministries
[2:41] - Personal Journey in Ministry
[3:56] - Video Clip: Facing the Giants
[10:53] - The Importance of Using Our Gifts
[13:42] - Jesus Came to Serve
[15:57] - Overcoming Excuses: Moses' Story
[18:22] - Age is Not a Barrier
[19:48] - Examples of Biblical Longevity
[20:54] - Past Sins Shouldn't Hold You Back
[22:08] - Practical Steps to Get Involved
[23:23] - Various Ministry Opportunities
[25:10] - Encouragement to Serve
[26:18] - Conclusion and Call to Action
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 1 Peter 4:10-11: "As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen."
2. Mark 10:45: "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."
3. 1 Corinthians 15:58: "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Peter 4:10-11, what are we supposed to do with the gifts we have received from God?
2. How does Mark 10:45 describe Jesus' purpose on earth, and how does this relate to our call to serve? [13:42]
3. What does 1 Corinthians 15:58 say about the nature of our labor in the Lord?
4. What were some of the excuses mentioned in the sermon that people use to avoid serving in ministry? [15:57]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Peter emphasize that our gifts should be used to serve one another? How does this reflect God's grace? [13:42]
2. How does Jesus' example of service in Mark 10:45 challenge our own attitudes towards serving others?
3. What does Paul mean when he says our labor in the Lord is "not in vain" in 1 Corinthians 15:58? How should this encourage us in our ministry efforts?
4. How can the story of Moses' excuses in Exodus 4 help us overcome our own feelings of inadequacy when it comes to serving? [15:57]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the gifts you believe God has given you. How can you start using these gifts to serve others in your church or community? [23:23]
2. Jesus came to serve and not to be served. In what specific ways can you emulate Jesus' example of selfless service in your daily life? [13:42]
3. Think about a time when you felt your efforts in ministry were in vain. How does 1 Corinthians 15:58 change your perspective on those efforts?
4. What excuses have you used in the past to avoid serving in ministry? How can you overcome these excuses moving forward? [15:57]
5. Age is not a barrier to serving God. Whether you are young or old, what specific role can you take on in your church to contribute to its ministry? [18:22]
6. If past sins are holding you back from serving, how can you embrace God's forgiveness and move forward in your ministry? [20:54]
7. Identify one practical step you can take this week to get involved in a ministry at your church. Whether it's talking to Pastor Cody or volunteering for a specific task, what will you do to start serving? [23:23]
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing Your God-Given Gifts
Each of us has received unique gifts from God, and we are called to use these gifts to serve one another. This is not optional but a divine responsibility. Serving others glorifies God and fulfills our purpose in His kingdom. God has equipped each of us with specific talents and abilities, and it is our duty to discover and utilize them for the benefit of the church and the community. When we serve others, we reflect God's love and grace, making His presence known in tangible ways.
Reflect on 1 Peter 4:10-11, which emphasizes that each of us has received gifts from God and should use them to serve one another. This passage reminds us that our gifts are not for personal gain but for the edification of the body of Christ. By serving others, we fulfill our divine mandate and contribute to the growth and unity of the church. [13:42]
1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."
Reflection: What unique gifts has God given you, and how can you use them to serve others in your church or community this week?
Day 2: Following Jesus' Example of Service
Jesus came to serve, not to be served. His life was the ultimate act of service, culminating in His sacrificial death. We are called to emulate His example by serving others selflessly, knowing that our labor in the Lord is never in vain. Jesus' ministry was marked by humility, compassion, and a willingness to put others' needs before His own. By following His example, we demonstrate our commitment to living out the gospel in practical ways.
Mark 10:45 highlights Jesus' mission to serve and give His life as a ransom for many. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that true greatness in God's kingdom is found in serving others. As we strive to follow Jesus' example, we can be confident that our efforts are meaningful and impactful, both in this life and in eternity. [13:42]
Mark 10:45 (ESV): "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Reflection: In what specific ways can you follow Jesus' example of selfless service in your daily life? How can you prioritize others' needs above your own this week?
Day 3: Overcoming Excuses to Serve
Like Moses, we often feel inadequate and make excuses to avoid serving. However, God equips those He calls. Whether it's a lack of confidence, age, or past sins, none of these should prevent us from stepping into our God-given roles. Moses initially resisted God's call, citing his lack of eloquence and fear of failure. Yet, God provided him with the support and resources needed to fulfill his mission. Similarly, God will equip us with everything we need to serve effectively.
Reflect on the story of Moses and how God addressed his concerns and insecurities. This narrative encourages us to trust in God's provision and step out in faith, knowing that He will empower us to accomplish His purposes. Our excuses may seem valid, but they pale in comparison to God's ability to work through us. [15:57]
Exodus 4:10-12 (ESV): "But Moses said to the Lord, 'Oh, my Lord, I am not eloquent, either in the past or since you have spoken to your servant, but I am slow of speech and of tongue.' Then the Lord said to him, 'Who has made man's mouth? Who makes him mute, or deaf, or seeing, or blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak.'"
Reflection: What excuses have you been using to avoid serving in your church or community? How can you trust God to equip you and step out in faith this week?
Day 4: Age is Not a Barrier to Serving God
Both young and old have roles to play in God's kingdom. Jesus started His ministry at 33, and John the Baptist continued his work into his late 90s. Age should never be an excuse to avoid serving God. The Bible is filled with examples of individuals who served God faithfully at various stages of life. Whether young or old, each person has unique experiences and wisdom to contribute to the body of Christ.
Reflect on the stories of Jesus and John the Baptist, who served God faithfully despite their differing ages. These examples remind us that God can use anyone, regardless of age, to accomplish His purposes. Our willingness to serve is what matters most, not our age or stage of life. [18:22]
Psalm 92:12-14 (ESV): "The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. They are planted in the house of the Lord; they flourish in the courts of our God. They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green."
Reflection: How can you use your current stage of life, whether young or old, to serve God and others? What unique perspectives and experiences can you bring to your church or community?
Day 5: Practical Steps to Get Involved in Ministry
Begin by praying about your gifts and seeking God's guidance. Talk to church leaders like Pastor Cody to find out where you can serve. There are many ways to get involved, from simple tasks like ringing the church bell to more involved roles like teaching Sunday school. The key is to start somewhere and trust that God has already factored in our imperfections. Taking the first step can often be the hardest, but it is essential for growth and fulfillment in our spiritual journey.
Reflect on the practical steps you can take to get involved in ministry. Start by identifying your gifts and passions, and then seek opportunities to use them in service to others. Remember that no act of service is too small, and each contribution is valuable in God's kingdom. [23:23]
Romans 12:6-8 (ESV): "Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness."
Reflection: What practical steps can you take this week to get involved in ministry? How can you use your gifts and passions to serve others in your church or community?
Quotes
1. "As each one has received a gift minister to one another as good stewards to the manifold grace of God. Verse 11 says if speaks let him speak as oracle of God if anyone ministers let him do let him do it as the ability which God supplies that is all things God may that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ to whom belong the glory in the dominion forever and ever amen like I said God's the ones that gives God gives us the gifts and the abilities and we should use them." [11:27] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "For even the son of man did not come to serve did not come to be served excuse me but to serve and to give his life a ransom for many you think about it Jesus came to earth to serve people he didn't come here to be served and then he served people the ultimate way through his death in first Corinthians chapter 15 verse 58 Paul writes therefore my beloved brethren be steadfast immovable always abound in the word knowing that your labor is not in vain in the lord if our labor is not in vain then there must be some kind of a reward then there must be some kind of a reward at some point in time sometimes that reward at a closer walk with the lord while you're here on earth other rewards are in heaven but I caution works and service is not what gets you to heaven the only thing that gets you there is salvation through Jesus." [13:42] (84 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "So the Lord said to him, who has made man's mouth? Or who makes the mute and the deaf and the seeing or the blind? Have not I, the Lord? Now therefore go, and I will be your mouth and teach you as you should say, as you shall say. As you can tell from that, I'm not very good at speaking either. I'm not saying this. I'm not saying this to brag on myself by any means. My point is, if I can get up here, anybody can. Most Sundays, back when I was doing devotions, quite often, I was as nervous as a cat on a hot tin roof. When I would go back to my seat, Tabitha would grab my hand, and my hands were ice cold. said, you're cold. And I said, no, I'm not. I said, I'm nervous." [17:07] (68 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Past or present sins. Is that maybe your reason why you feel like you can't? Past sin. If you've asked God for forgiveness, he is just to forgive us. If you read Psalms 103, verses 11 and 12. For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is his mercy towards those who fear him. As far as the east is to the west. So far has he removed our transgressions from us. So God's removed him. He's forgot about him. Because if you go east and you go west, the two will never meet. The Apostle Paul, as a good example, he killed Christians before. This was before he was a follower of Christ. But afterwards, he did mighty things. If you've got a present sin that's holding you back. I don't have much to say about that except for to get rid of it. Deal with it. Get it right." [22:08] (86 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And lastly, what ministries are there and where do I begin? The best place to begin is to pray about it. It's always the best place to start. Pray about it. If you don't know your talents or your gifts, pray about them. Secondly, the thing you can do is ask Pastor Cody if there's something you can do in the church if you want to get involved. A few examples of some ministries. Most people know what that rope's back there on the wall for. I know the kids used to really know. That's the church bell. Anybody could do it, but I do have it listed out here as something the kids could do still. That church bell's not been ringing a long time. Another spot that kids can do is the camera operator. Tyler and Ethan's done it. Chase has done it. The guys do a good job. It's nice to spread that around a little bit. The media room, the same way. We could put some young'uns back there. Some adults will be back there with them for a while until they learn it, but I'm sure they could." [23:23] (80 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "When God puts a calling in your life, He's already factored in your stupidity. That is so true. So in conclusion, first of all, being in a ministry doesn't save you. That doesn't get you to heaven. Only salvation will. Salvation, asking for forgiveness and accepting the gift of eternal life. That's where it all truly begins. And if you have something that you would like to do or try, get with Pastor Cody. And I'm sure that he will guide you in the right direction." [25:10] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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