Engage, Grow, Expand: Living as Christ's Body

Devotional

Day 1: Serving Together as the Body of Christ

God calls every believer to serve together, using their unique gifts to build up the church and fulfill His mission. Just as a body has many parts with different functions, each person in the church has a role that is vital for the health and growth of the whole. No one is meant to serve alone or to think of themselves as more important than others; instead, we are to humbly recognize our gifts and use them for the benefit of all. When everyone steps forward—whether to teach, encourage, give, lead, or serve in practical ways—the church becomes a vibrant, unified body that reflects Christ to the world. [59:16]

Romans 12:3-8 (ESV)
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. 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: 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 is one practical way you can use your unique gifts to serve others in your church this week?

Day 2: Humility and Sober Judgment in Service

True service in the church begins with humility—recognizing that every gift comes from God and that no one is more important than another. We are warned not to think of ourselves more highly than we should, but to see ourselves with sober judgment, understanding that each person’s contribution is essential. This attitude keeps pride at bay and allows the church to function in unity, with each member valuing and supporting the others as we pursue God’s vision together. [49:00]

Romans 12:3 (ESV)
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.

Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to ask God to help you serve with greater humility and appreciation for others’ gifts?

Day 3: Following Jesus’ Example of Servanthood

Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of a servant—He gave His life for others, always putting their needs before His own. He taught that greatness in God’s kingdom comes through serving, not being served. When we serve others, even in the smallest or most unnoticed ways, we are following in the footsteps of Jesus and reflecting His love to the world. Serving is not about recognition or reward, but about obedience and love, just as Christ demonstrated. [01:10:23]

Mark 9:35 (ESV)
And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.”

Reflection: What is one act of humble service you can do today that follows Jesus’ example, even if no one else notices?

Day 4: Intentionality and Authentic Community

Building a healthy church requires intentionality—making the effort to reach out, welcome others, and create authentic relationships. When each person takes responsibility to engage and make others feel seen and valued, the church becomes a place where people experience the genuine love of Christ. This intentional love and hospitality can be the very thing that draws someone closer to Jesus and helps them find their place in the body. [44:35]

Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Reflection: Who is someone new or on the margins in your church that you can intentionally reach out to and encourage this week?

Day 5: Discovering and Using Your Spiritual Gifts

Every believer has been given spiritual gifts by the Holy Spirit, and discovering these gifts is a journey that leads to deeper fulfillment and purpose. When you step out in faith to use your gifts—whether in teaching, serving, giving, leading, or encouraging—you not only bless others but also grow in your own relationship with Christ. The church thrives when everyone finds their place and serves with joy, knowing that even the smallest act of service matters in God’s kingdom. [52:04]

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 step can you take this week to discover, develop, or more fully use your spiritual gifts for God’s glory?

Sermon Summary

Today’s focus is on the heart of what it means to be the church—a living, breathing body where every member is vital, every gift matters, and Jesus Christ is the center of it all. The call is not to gather out of tradition or for the sake of numbers, but to come together because of Jesus, the King of kings, who alone is worthy of our worship and service. As our church has grown, it’s become clear that growth is not just about more people in the seats, but about maturing in faith, deepening our understanding of Scripture, and living out the love of Christ in practical, tangible ways.

The vision for this season is simple but profound: engage, grow, and expand. Engaging means living out the love of Jesus with one another, being His hands and feet in both big and small ways. Growth is not just numerical, but spiritual—developing maturity and sound doctrine, and putting biblical truth into practice. Expansion is about making disciples, reaching beyond our walls to share the good news with all people.

This is not a vision that can be carried by a few; it requires the whole body working together. Every act of service, from cleaning toilets to leading worship, from greeting newcomers to running the children’s ministry, is essential. Each person has unique gifts given by the Holy Spirit, and discovering and using those gifts is both a privilege and a responsibility. Serving is not about recognition or pride, but about obedience, humility, and following the example of Christ, the ultimate servant.

The Faith Forward initiative is an invitation to everyone—whether new or seasoned—to discover their place in the body, to find fulfillment in serving, and to join in the mission God has given us. It’s about intentionality: making sure no one is overlooked, that every person is welcomed, valued, and equipped to serve. When we operate as one unified body, God is glorified, lives are changed, and the church becomes a true reflection of Christ to the world.

Key Takeaways

1. True church growth is measured not by attendance, but by spiritual maturity and authentic love. When each person seeks to understand and live out Scripture, the church becomes a place where people are genuinely welcomed, known, and transformed. This kind of growth requires intentional relationships and a commitment to making every person feel seen and valued. [42:11]
2. Every believer has unique gifts given by the Holy Spirit, and the body of Christ only functions as it should when each member uses those gifts. No role is insignificant—whether it’s teaching, serving, encouraging, or even changing a light bulb, each act of service is sacred and necessary for the health and mission of the church. [38:55]
3. Serving can easily become an idol if it replaces intimacy with Christ or neglects personal and family health. There must be a balance between pouring out for others and being filled by God, ensuring that service flows from a place of relationship, not obligation or pride. [61:27]
4. Humility is essential in both leadership and service. Pride in growth or accomplishment can subtly shift the focus from Christ to ourselves, but the call is to remember that everything is for His glory, not ours. When we serve with humility, we reflect the heart of Jesus and keep the mission pure. [49:00]
5. Ownership in the church comes when people discover their purpose and invest their gifts in the mission. This not only builds community and joy, but also compels us to invite others into what God is doing. When everyone is engaged, the church becomes a vibrant, unified team that God can use to do the miraculous. [65:41]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[33:21] - Why We Gather: It’s All About Jesus
[34:44] - The Need for Every Member’s Gifts
[36:10] - Serving in the Small and the Large
[38:15] - Unique Gifts in the Body
[40:15] - The Vision: Engage, Grow, Expand
[41:01] - Growth: Beyond Numbers
[42:11] - Authentic Community and Love
[43:06] - Intentional Relationships
[44:35] - The Power of a Welcoming Church
[45:47] - Introducing Faith Forward
[47:08] - Our Story and Beliefs
[49:00] - Guarding Against Pride
[50:29] - The Urgency of the Gospel
[52:04] - Discovering Your Place and Purpose
[57:49] - Opportunities to Serve
[59:16] - The Power of Many Hands
[61:27] - Balancing Service and Rest
[63:25] - Spiritual Gifts in Action
[70:23] - Why Serving Matters
[71:27] - Staying in Your Calling
[72:59] - Unified for God’s Glory
[80:35] - Closing and Next Steps

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Romans 12:3-8 (ESV) — > For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. 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: 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.

Observation Questions

According to Romans 12:3-8, what is the attitude Paul says we should have about ourselves and our gifts?
What are some of the different gifts and roles Paul lists in this passage? How does he say they should be used?
In the sermon, what are some examples given of “small” and “large” acts of service that are needed in the church? [[37:06]]
What is the main reason, according to the sermon, that the church gathers together each week? [[33:21]]

Interpretation Questions

Why do you think Paul warns us not to think of ourselves “more highly than we ought” when it comes to our gifts and roles in the church? How can pride affect the way we serve? [[49:00]]
The sermon talks about every act of service being “sacred and necessary.” What does this say about the value of less visible or less “glamorous” roles in the church? [[38:15]]
The pastor mentioned that serving can become an idol if it replaces intimacy with Christ or neglects personal and family health. What are some signs that serving might be out of balance in someone’s life? [[01:01:27]]
How does discovering and using your spiritual gifts help you feel a sense of ownership and belonging in the church? [[01:05:41]]

Application Questions

The sermon says true church growth is measured by spiritual maturity and authentic love, not just numbers. In your own experience, what makes you feel genuinely welcomed and valued in a church community? How can you help create that environment for others? [[42:11]]
Think about the gifts and talents God has given you. Are there ways you are already using them to serve others? Is there a new area you feel God might be calling you to step into? [[52:04]]
The pastor shared that even things like cleaning toilets or changing light bulbs are important acts of service. Is there a “small” job in the church you’ve overlooked or thought was unimportant? How might your attitude change after hearing this message? [[37:06]]
Have you ever struggled with pride or discouragement in serving—either feeling like your role is more important than others, or feeling like what you do doesn’t matter? How can you keep your focus on serving for God’s glory, not your own? [[49:00]]
The sermon warns about letting serving become an idol. Are there ways you’ve let busyness in ministry crowd out your time with God or your family? What practical steps can you take to find a healthier balance? [[01:01:27]]
The Faith Forward initiative is about helping everyone find their place in the body. If you’re not sure what your gifts are, what is one step you can take this month to discover or try out a new way of serving? [[52:04]]
When you think about “engage, grow, and expand,” which of these do you feel most drawn to right now? What is one specific action you can take this week to live that out? [[40:15]]

Sermon Clips

There are some things that every one of us should be doing, right? We all should be the hands and feet of Jesus. We should all represent the kingdom. We should all treat people with high integrity. We should all love one another. We should all represent Jesus in the way we talk and the things that we do and share the gospel. Like, the scripture tells us we should all do that. But there are other specific gifts that not all of us have the same. [00:38:55] (34 seconds) #HandsAndFeetOfJesus

Jesus is the subject of everything we do. We are passionate about loving each person in the way that Christ loves us, and we're committed to helping you discover your spiritual gifts, deepen your faith, and walk in the unique purpose that God has designed for you. [00:46:08] (19 seconds) #PurposeInChrist

I was really convicted, probably really hard in the last year, because when you see growth happen, like when growth happens, it's really easy to get excited, right? And it's really easy to be like, man, dude, we're doing something right. Like pride starts setting in. And God really convicted me on this. This is not Jason Fields' church. This is not Jeff Diamond's church, okay? And if I ever, ever, ever, ever start acting like, look at me, look at what we are doing, I've already told God, God, you take me out of that church. You humble me, you set me down. Because in the ministry, it's not about me. It's not about another man. It's not about the thrills. It's not anything to do with any of that. It's about Jesus Christ. [00:48:27] (83 seconds) #HumbleForJesus

We're not going to point you out. We're not going to be gossiping on the side like, oh, my goodness. Like, that Jeff Diamond guy has got tattoos down his arm. Like, you know, no. We better not be doing that. But what we do want to do is we want to have somebody come in here so that they can learn about Jesus Christ, so that they can learn about what the Bible says, so they can learn who the Holy Spirit is. Because you know what will happen in the next? The Holy Spirit will convict them. And the life that maybe they were living or the life that they had no relationship with God, the Holy Spirit will speak to them. And then all of a sudden, they come to find this relationship with Christ. And it's an incredible, beautiful story. [00:51:06] (55 seconds) #WelcomingWithoutJudgment

The way that a church continues to grow and continues to multiply and people learn more and understand more about Jesus, it's by getting connected. It's about finding out like Lord what do you have for me. [00:52:43] (21 seconds) #ConnectedInFaith

So in Christ, we, though many, when I say though many, that means different personalities, different skill sets, different types of people, different ways we look, but we all form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. So Paul writes something else about us as the body of Christ. He says that none of us exist outside the body. [01:02:58] (31 seconds) #OneBodyManyParts

As we serve all of a sudden we become as one body and as we serve it gives us the opportunity to have ownership in the church and all of a sudden this goes to dude you got to come to my church man you got to come and see what god's doing at my church like it becomes an ownership and then all of a sudden people buy into what this whole vision in this mission is and really what this is all about is us working together as a body of christ so then that we can get on a team and then that team gets us so on fire that we go out and we tell our neighbors and our co -workers about jesus christ. [01:07:43] (45 seconds) #OwnershipThroughService

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