Serving: A Vital Habit of Belonging in Christ
Summary
### Summary
Welcome, everyone. Today, we continue our series on "Habits of Belonging," focusing on serving as a vital habit that fosters our sense of belonging within the church. Last week, we discussed fellowship as a means of grace, and today, we delve into serving. Serving in the church is not about earning God's favor; we already have that through Christ. Instead, serving is about contributing to the body of Christ out of love and concern for one another.
Belonging, enabling, and serving are interconnected and stem from being part of a spiritual body, not a man-made institution. Each of us is a part of Christ's body, a living organism. We often think of church as a place we go to rather than a body we are part of. This mindset can lead to disconnection and unmet needs, as illustrated by the parable of Nose and Hand.
God has arranged each member of the church with specific roles and gifts. The church is not a human creation but a divine one, with each member playing a crucial part. The Holy Spirit baptizes us into this body, giving us spiritual gifts for the common good. These gifts are not for personal recognition but to serve and build up the entire body.
The church is a reflection of God's wisdom and glory, meant to display His character to the world. If you're outside the church, you're in a vulnerable position. Inside the church, there should be unity and mutual concern. Spiritual gifts are given to equip the saints for ministry, build up the body, and foster unity and maturity in Christ.
Our gifts are like faucets of God's grace, meant to flow freely to bless others. When we don't use our gifts, the grace of God stays trapped, and the church suffers. Discovering our gifts often happens in the act of serving. The Holy Spirit's work in giving gifts is sovereign and tailored to the needs of the church.
We must step out in faith, asking God to show us how to serve and build up the body. Our motivation should be love, as without it, our gifts are meaningless. The church often lacks the manifestation of the Spirit because it lacks love. We need to be deeply committed to showing equal love for one another, leading to the common good.
In our church, one clear need is in children's ministry. Serving where the need is clear can help us discover our gifts and contribute to the body's health. Serving is a practice of belonging, recognizing the church as the living body of Christ. Let's commit to serving one another in love, for God's glory and our collective good.
### Key Takeaways
1. Belonging and Serving are Interconnected: Belonging to the church is not just about attending services but being an active part of a spiritual body. Serving is a natural outflow of this belonging, where each member contributes to the body out of love and concern for one another. This interconnectedness fosters a deeper sense of community and spiritual growth. [32:17]
2. The Church as a Divine Creation: The church is not a man-made institution but a living organism created by God. Each member is uniquely placed and gifted by God to fulfill specific roles. This divine arrangement means that every person is indispensable, and the church thrives when all members actively participate. [40:23]
3. Spiritual Gifts for the Common Good: Spiritual gifts are manifestations of the Holy Spirit given to each believer for the common good. These gifts are not for personal recognition but to serve and build up the entire body of Christ. When we use our gifts, God's grace flows through us to bless others, fostering unity and maturity in the church. [47:12]
4. Love as the Foundation of Service: Without love, our spiritual gifts are meaningless. Love should be the driving force behind our service, ensuring that we show equal concern for all members of the body. A church that flows in love will naturally flow in the gifts of the Spirit, displaying God's wisdom and glory to the world. [49:00]
5. Responding to Clear Needs: Serving where the need is clear, such as in children's ministry, helps us discover our gifts and contribute to the body's health. By stepping out in faith and serving, we align ourselves with God's purpose and arrangement for the church, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual growth. [52:21]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [32:17] - Introduction to Serving
3. [33:22] - Parable of Nose and Hand
4. [38:53] - Prayer for Understanding
5. [40:23] - The Church as a Living Organism
6. [41:19] - Role of the Holy Spirit
7. [42:51] - The Father's Work in the Church
8. [44:52] - The Church's Role in the World
9. [45:30] - Unity and Diversity in the Body
10. [46:36] - Spiritual Gifts for the Common Good
11. [49:33] - The Importance of Fellowship
12. [50:02] - Building Up the Body of Christ
13. [51:26] - Distributing God's Grace
14. [52:21] - Responding to Needs
15. [55:27] - Using Gifts in Service
16. [56:09] - Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts
17. [58:03] - The Sovereignty of the Holy Spirit
18. [59:48] - Identifying Gifts Through Service
19. [01:00:44] - Stepping Out in Faith
20. [01:02:10] - The Pursuit of Love
21. [01:03:33] - Commitment to the Common Good
22. [01:04:57] - The Church as Our First Family
23. [01:06:50] - Overcoming Obstacles to Community
24. [01:08:09] - Addressing Current Needs
25. [01:10:01] - Preparing for Future Growth
26. [01:12:00] - Serving in Children's Ministry
27. [01:14:02] - Practicing Belonging
28. [01:15:17] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
2. Ephesians 4:11-13
3. 1 Peter 4:10-11
#### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, how does Paul describe the church? What analogy does he use to explain the interconnectedness of its members?
2. In Ephesians 4:11-13, what are the purposes of the spiritual gifts given to the church?
3. How does 1 Peter 4:10-11 instruct believers to use their spiritual gifts? What is the ultimate goal of using these gifts?
4. In the sermon, what was the main reason given for why serving is essential to the church? ([32:17])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the analogy of the body in 1 Corinthians 12 help us understand the importance of each member's role in the church? What might be the consequences if one part of the body is not functioning properly?
2. Ephesians 4:11-13 emphasizes unity and maturity in the church. How do spiritual gifts contribute to these goals? What might happen if these gifts are not used?
3. Reflecting on 1 Peter 4:10-11, why is it important to serve others with the gifts God has given us? How does this reflect God's character?
4. The sermon mentioned that love should be the foundation of our service. Why is love crucial for the effective use of spiritual gifts? ([49:00])
#### Application Questions
1. Think about the analogy of the body in 1 Corinthians 12. What specific role do you believe God has given you in the church? How can you better fulfill this role?
2. Ephesians 4:11-13 talks about building up the body of Christ. What are some practical ways you can contribute to the unity and maturity of your church community?
3. 1 Peter 4:10-11 encourages us to use our gifts to serve others. Identify one specific gift you have and think of a way you can use it to serve someone in your church this week.
4. The sermon highlighted the importance of love in service. Reflect on your motivations for serving. Are they rooted in love? How can you ensure that love remains your primary motivation? ([49:00])
5. The sermon mentioned a clear need in the children's ministry. Have you considered serving in an area of need within your church, even if it’s outside your comfort zone? What steps can you take to start serving in that area? ([52:21])
6. The pastor mentioned that discovering our gifts often happens in the act of serving. Is there a ministry or service opportunity you’ve been hesitant to try? How can you step out in faith and explore this opportunity? ([56:09])
7. Reflect on the idea that the church is a living organism, not just a place we go to. How can this perspective change the way you engage with your church community? What practical steps can you take to foster a deeper sense of belonging? ([33:22])
Devotional
Day 1: Belonging Through Active Participation
Belonging to the church is not just about attending services but being an active part of a spiritual body. Serving is a natural outflow of this belonging, where each member contributes to the body out of love and concern for one another. This interconnectedness fosters a deeper sense of community and spiritual growth. When we serve, we are not merely fulfilling a duty but expressing our love and commitment to the body of Christ. This active participation helps us to feel more connected and valued within the church community, enhancing our sense of belonging.
The church is a living organism, not a man-made institution. Each member is uniquely placed and gifted by God to fulfill specific roles. This divine arrangement means that every person is indispensable, and the church thrives when all members actively participate. By recognizing and embracing our roles, we contribute to the overall health and growth of the church, making it a more vibrant and loving community. [32:17]
1 Corinthians 12:12-14 (ESV): "For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit. For the body does not consist of one member but of many."
Reflection: Think about a specific way you can actively participate in your church community this week. How can you use your unique gifts to serve others and foster a deeper sense of belonging?
Day 2: The Church as a Divine Creation
The church is not a man-made institution but a living organism created by God. Each member is uniquely placed and gifted by God to fulfill specific roles. This divine arrangement means that every person is indispensable, and the church thrives when all members actively participate. Understanding this helps us to see the church not just as a place we go to but as a body we are part of, where each member is vital to its function and health.
God has arranged each member of the church with specific roles and gifts. The Holy Spirit baptizes us into this body, giving us spiritual gifts for the common good. These gifts are not for personal recognition but to serve and build up the entire body. When we embrace our roles and use our gifts, we contribute to the church's overall health and growth, making it a more vibrant and loving community. [40:23]
Ephesians 4:15-16 (ESV): "Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love."
Reflection: Reflect on the unique gifts and roles God has given you. How can you use them to contribute to the health and growth of your church community?
Day 3: Spiritual Gifts for the Common Good
Spiritual gifts are manifestations of the Holy Spirit given to each believer for the common good. These gifts are not for personal recognition but to serve and build up the entire body of Christ. When we use our gifts, God's grace flows through us to bless others, fostering unity and maturity in the church. It is essential to recognize that our gifts are meant to benefit the whole community, not just ourselves.
Our gifts are like faucets of God's grace, meant to flow freely to bless others. When we don't use our gifts, the grace of God stays trapped, and the church suffers. Discovering our gifts often happens in the act of serving. The Holy Spirit's work in giving gifts is sovereign and tailored to the needs of the church. By stepping out in faith and using our gifts, we align ourselves with God's purpose and arrangement for the church. [47:12]
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: Identify one spiritual gift you believe God has given you. How can you use this gift to serve others in your church community this week?
Day 4: Love as the Foundation of Service
Without love, our spiritual gifts are meaningless. Love should be the driving force behind our service, ensuring that we show equal concern for all members of the body. A church that flows in love will naturally flow in the gifts of the Spirit, displaying God's wisdom and glory to the world. Love is the foundation that makes our service impactful and meaningful.
The church often lacks the manifestation of the Spirit because it lacks love. We need to be deeply committed to showing equal love for one another, leading to the common good. When love is the motivation behind our service, it fosters unity and maturity in Christ. This love reflects God's character and wisdom to the world, making the church a beacon of hope and grace. [49:00]
1 Corinthians 13:1-3 (ESV): "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing."
Reflection: Reflect on your motivations for serving in the church. Are they rooted in love? How can you ensure that love remains the foundation of your service?
Day 5: Responding to Clear Needs
Serving where the need is clear, such as in children's ministry, helps us discover our gifts and contribute to the body's health. By stepping out in faith and serving, we align ourselves with God's purpose and arrangement for the church, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual growth. Responding to clear needs allows us to see where we can make the most significant impact and helps us to grow in our faith and service.
In our church, one clear need is in children's ministry. Serving where the need is clear can help us discover our gifts and contribute to the body's health. When we respond to these needs, we practice belonging and recognize the church as the living body of Christ. Let's commit to serving one another in love, for God's glory and our collective good. [52:21]
Galatians 6:9-10 (ESV): "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith."
Reflection: Identify a clear need in your church community. How can you step out in faith to serve in this area and contribute to the health and growth of the church?
Quotes
1. "Serving is not merely pitching in with our time and talent to do something virtuous or something that merits God's favor. To be joined to the body of Christ is to already have God's favor. To serve in the local church is to supply a share of what the body needs out of loving concern for each and every other member of it." [32:17] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Any living organism needs to have all its parts in order to thrive, not just survive. What happens to it when one of its parts is lost or isn't working? One of us should understand that God has brought us in and fit us together to function as indispensable parts of a larger living creature called the church." [38:53] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "A body put together by human ingenuity is either going to be a robot or a Frankenstein monster. No. What we need to embrace before we hope our hopes and dream our own dreams for the church is that God is the one who brought the church into being as an image-bearer of His." [40:23] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "If you're a Christian, you've had an out-of-body experience. You've been plucked out, removed from the body of death, and planted in the body of the Lord Jesus Christ. To be made new, to live and grow in this body, you have to be connected to the rest of it." [41:19] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The church, in other words, is to image, is to display what God is like for the world to see and embrace. Through the church, God is putting everybody in the spiritual realms on notice, whether His servants or His enemies." [44:52] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "The difference in impact of an individual whose life has been transformed and the impact of a church of transformed people is the difference between a single lamp stand and a city on the hill. A church whose fellowship is clearly pulsating with the life of Christ in the day to day." [49:00] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "God places various gifts in the people of the church to distribute His grace, channeled through the supernatural endowments that He gives them. To continue with the plumbing metaphor from last week, the members of a Christian fellowship are like the pipes and the faucets of God's grace. Turn on our gifts and His grace flows and it washes over the entire body." [51:26] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "Your involvement in the fellowship of the body is critical. And your involvement is critical. And your involvement and yours if the rest of us are to receive the supply of God's grace that we need to keep going. We each receive a gift from God in order to give so that His grace will flow." [52:51] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "We discover our gifts when we step out in faith and just get going. There are various tools out there, like spiritual gift inventories and assessments. But let me just say that while these have been quite popular in recent history, I doubt that the sovereign work of the Holy Spirit can be measured by taking a survey or filling a questionnaire." [56:09] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "To serve is to practice belonging. It's to recognize the church as the living body of Christ, a body that makes His presence and work in the world real. It is to agree with God that you've been joined to the body of Christ according to His arrangement and for His purpose." [01:14:02] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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