Creating a Community of Servants
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Key Verse: “Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” Selected Scripture: |
THE MEANING OF THE word ‘minister’ is ‘one who serves’ as exemplified by the Lord Jesus, and shown when he washed the feet of his disciples. (John 13:5) It was a touching act of service, which illustrated the true spirit of meekness. Our Lord looked at the privilege of serving the fallen race of mankind as their Redeemer with joy. “Who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross.” (Heb. 12:2) His joy also came to the support of his endurance and helped him to win the victory.
Jesus was an example to all of his footstep followers. All of his disciples must show such great loyalty to the principles of God’s government, and a sincere humility of spirit that would be glad to render service to anyone in need. No other lesson requires that it be so carefully learned by the Lord’s people.—Mark 10:40-45; I Thess. 5:13
“As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” (Gal. 6:10) This includes those who have consecrated their lives to walk in the Lord’s footsteps, and also to those who are counting the cost. We must do all of the good that we can, using any means that we have, in service. Every service lovingly rendered to God’s called-out ones is rendered unto the glory of our Heavenly Father. Another requirement of this service is that it be made with joy, for “God loveth a cheerful giver.” (II Cor. 9:6-12) Let us use to our best ability the gifts that we possess to serve the Lord from a sincere heart. “Fear (reverence) God, and keep his commandments.”—Eccles. 12:13
The thought of keeping focused on giving our all in service to God for his glory is further shown, “As the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; With good will doing service, as to the Lord.” (Eph. 6:6,7) In this manner, we will be pleasing to God, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given us … If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.” (Rom. 12:6-8, New International Version) These verses point out the importance of serving. “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love.” (vs. 10) We should develop among ourselves that kind of affection that properly belongs in a family, or a new community of servants. In this family arrangement, or body, the blessing and honor of one member signifies the blessing, honor, and advancement of all. He that loves all others so that he is constantly seeking to do them good is following the holy law. “In obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently.”—I Pet. 1:22; I Tim. 1:5
Serving one another in this present life is our responsibility and, if faithful in all things, it will lead to a special work of service in the future—bringing blessings to all mankind in God’s glorious kingdom.—Eph. 4:11-14