Embracing Servanthood: Building a Thriving Church Community
Summary
Today is a day of deep gratitude and celebration, not only for the blessing of forty years of marriage with my beloved wife, but also for the incredible family God has given us here at New Life on Eastern Valley. As I reflect on the journey, I am reminded that the heart of our church is not just in its programs or its building, but in the people who serve with humility, joy, and faithfulness. Our leaders are the backbone of this community, pouring themselves out week after week—often unseen and unthanked—so that the love of Christ is felt by everyone who walks through our doors.
Leadership in God’s kingdom is defined by servanthood. True leaders are those who see a need, take responsibility, and serve without seeking recognition. Whether it’s organizing a yard sale in the pouring rain to support missions and foster children, or quietly ensuring the church is ready for worship, our leaders embody the spirit of Christ by putting others first. Their labor is not glamorous, but it is essential, and it is a reflection of the stewardship God calls each of us to embrace.
But this is not a call for spectatorship. Every member of this church family has a unique role to play. God has gifted each of us with talents, passions, and a purpose to serve and build His kingdom. The church does not run on autopilot; it thrives when each person steps forward in faith, volunteering and serving alongside our leaders. The question we must all ask ourselves is: “What would my church be if everyone served like me?” The answer to that question shapes the future of our community.
Today, I invite everyone to prayerfully consider where God is calling you to serve. Our leaders need encouragement, fresh vision, and—most of all—partners in ministry. As we lay hands on them and pray for renewed strength and anointing, let us also commit to lightening their load by stepping into the work God has prepared for us. New Life on Eastern Valley is not just a place to receive; it is a family where everyone belongs and everyone is needed.
Key Takeaways
- Servant leadership is the foundation of a healthy church. True leaders are those who serve without seeking recognition, taking initiative to meet needs and carry burdens for others. This kind of leadership reflects the heart of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve, and it sets the tone for the entire community. [33:13]
- Stewardship is a calling for every believer. God has entrusted each of us with unique gifts, talents, and passions, not for our own benefit, but to build up His kingdom. Embracing stewardship means recognizing that our time, resources, and abilities are meant to be invested in the lives of others and the mission of the church. [38:24]
- The unseen work of ministry is often the most impactful. Much of what sustains a church happens behind the scenes—preparing, cleaning, organizing, praying, and supporting. These acts of faithfulness may go unnoticed by many, but they are seen by God and are essential to the flourishing of the body of Christ. [35:44]
- Every member has a vital role in the life of the church. The church is not a place for passive attendance, but a family where each person is called to participate. When we step forward to serve, we not only lighten the load for our leaders, but we also discover the joy and fulfillment that comes from being part of something greater than ourselves. [01:18:55]
- Encouragement and prayer are powerful ways to support those who lead. Our leaders pour themselves out for the sake of the church, and they need our prayers for renewed strength, vision, and anointing. By coming alongside them in both word and action, we create a culture of honor and unity that advances the kingdom of God. [01:31:21]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:10] - Anniversary Reflections and Gratitude
[04:30] - Opening Prayer and Special Requests
[07:00] - Introducing the Leadership Appreciation Service
[10:45] - The Heart of Servant Leadership
[15:20] - Scripture Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:12
[21:37] - Giving and Platform Remodel Update
[25:00] - The Unseen Work of Leaders
[33:13] - God’s Placement and Purpose for Leaders
[35:44] - The Church Doesn’t Run Itself
[38:24] - The Call to Stewardship and Service
[45:00] - Testimonies of Leadership in Action
[53:57] - Recognizing Individual Leaders
[01:18:55] - Lessons Learned Through Service
[01:31:21] - Praying for and Commissioning Leaders
[01:36:00] - Invitation to Volunteer and Closing Remarks
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: Servant Leadership and Stewardship at New Life on Eastern Valley
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### Bible Reading
1 Thessalonians 5:12 (NIV)
> "Now, brothers and sisters, we ask you to appreciate those who work hard among you, who lead you in the Lord and teach you."
Mark 10:45 (NIV)
> "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
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### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Thessalonians 5:12, what are we asked to do for those who work hard and lead in the church?
2. In the sermon, what are some specific examples given of leaders serving behind the scenes at New Life on Eastern Valley? ([33:13])
3. What does Mark 10:45 say about the way Jesus approached leadership?
4. What are some of the “unseen” tasks mentioned in the sermon that help the church function each week? ([35:44])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Paul tells the church to appreciate and recognize their leaders in 1 Thessalonians 5:12? How might this affect the health of a church community?
2. The sermon says, “Until you can be a servant, you can never be a leader.” What does this mean in practical terms for how we view leadership in the church? ([33:13])
3. Why is the unseen work of ministry described as “the most impactful” in the sermon? ([35:44])
4. The pastor asked, “What would my church be if everyone served like me?” Why is this question important for each member to consider? ([38:24])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon challenges us to consider where God is calling us to serve. Is there a ministry or area in the church where you feel a nudge to get involved, even if it’s behind the scenes? What’s holding you back? ([38:24])
2. Think about a time when you benefited from someone’s “unseen” service at church (like a clean building, working sound, or a welcoming environment). How can you show appreciation to those who serve in these ways this week? ([35:44])
3. The pastor said, “Our leaders need encouragement, fresh vision, and—most of all—partners in ministry.” What is one practical way you can encourage a leader at New Life this month? ([01:31:21])
4. Stewardship means using our gifts, time, and resources for God’s kingdom. What is one gift or passion you have that you could offer to serve others at church? ([38:24])
5. The question was asked, “What would my church be if everyone served like me?” If everyone at New Life matched your current level of involvement, what would the church look like? Is there anything you’d want to change about your answer? ([38:24])
6. Prayer was a big part of the service for leaders. How can you make praying for church leaders a regular part of your week? ([01:31:21])
7. The sermon described the church as a family, not just a place to receive. What is one step you can take this week to move from being a “spectator” to an active participant in the life of the church? ([38:24])
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Take a few minutes as a group to pray for your church leaders by name, asking God to give them strength, vision, and encouragement. Then pray for each other, that God would show each person where and how to serve in this season.
Devotional
Day 1: Appreciating Those Who Serve Among Us
True leadership in the church is rooted in servitude and selfless dedication. Our leaders pour out their hearts week after week, often sacrificing time, energy, and even income to ensure the church functions smoothly and that every member feels the love of Christ. Their unseen acts—setting up events, cleaning, teaching, and praying—are the backbone of our church family. As we gather, let us not take for granted the countless hours and heartfelt labor that go into making our church a place where God’s love is felt. Today, pause to recognize and thank those who serve, and consider how you might come alongside them in the work of the kingdom. [33:13]
1 Thessalonians 5:12 (ESV)
"We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you,"
Reflection: Who is one leader in your church you can personally thank or encourage today for their faithful service?
Day 2: Everyone Has a Role to Play
The church is not just a place to receive, but a family where every person has a unique role and purpose. God has gifted each of us with talents, passions, and a calling to serve and build His kingdom. Whether you are already serving or still searching for your place, know that your contribution matters. Even if you feel unsure or apprehensive, taking a step of faith to get involved can make a lasting difference—not just for the church, but for your own spiritual growth. [38:24]
Romans 12:4-6 (ESV)
"For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them..."
Reflection: What is one gift or passion God has given you that you could offer in service to your church family this week?
Day 3: The Principle of Stewardship
God calls each of us to be good stewards of the resources, talents, and opportunities He has entrusted to us. Stewardship is not just about finances, but about faithfully managing every aspect of our lives for God’s glory. When we step up to serve, volunteer, or support the work of the church, we are living out this principle and helping to build something greater than ourselves. Stewardship is a daily choice to use what God has given us for His purposes and the good of others. [38:24]
1 Peter 4:10 (ESV)
"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace:"
Reflection: In what area of your life can you be a better steward for God’s kingdom—time, talent, or treasure—and what is one step you can take today?
Day 4: Serving with Joy and Faith
Serving in God’s kingdom is not always easy, but when done with joy and faith, it becomes a powerful testimony. Even in the face of challenges—like pouring rain at a yard sale or long hours of preparation—our leaders and volunteers serve with cheerful hearts, trusting that God will use their efforts for His glory. Joyful service inspires others and creates a culture where God’s love is tangible and contagious. [01:18:55]
Psalm 100:2 (ESV)
"Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!"
Reflection: Think of a recent challenge you faced while serving others. How can you choose joy and faith in similar situations going forward?
Day 5: Praying for and Supporting Our Leaders
One of the greatest ways we can show appreciation for our leaders is by praying for them and working alongside them. Leaders carry heavy burdens as they guide, teach, and care for the church, and they need our encouragement, support, and partnership. When we pray for their renewed strength, vision, and anointing, and when we step up to lighten their load, we help advance God’s work and foster a spirit of unity in the body of Christ. [01:31:21]
Hebrews 13:17 (ESV)
"Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you."
Reflection: Take a moment to pray specifically for one church leader by name today. How can you practically support or encourage them this week?
Quotes
Many years before I was a pastor, God called me to pastor a church, and I just told God I could not do that. And I told him, I said, number one, my wife can't play and sing. We'd have no music. We'd have nobody to teach Sunday school classes. We'd have no children's ministry. And today we have all of those and so much more. So much more. Why? Because we have the best leadership team. [00:37:54] (25 seconds)
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