What do we know about serving? What do we communicate to others when trying to recruit them to serve? How we view serving could make a difference not only on “if” we serve, but also “how” we serve. So, let’s see what God says about ministry in the Bible.
Serving is a Matter of Obedience and Stewardship
Both “if” and “how” we serve comes in the form of a command. God holds us accountable for serving wholeheartedly and by His power.
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. (Rom. 12:11)
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Pet. 4:10-11)
Serving is More Than a Mere Command and Responsibility; It’s God’s Plan for Us
God didn’t save us merely to give us an eternal home in glory one day. He has purpose for us right now.
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Eph. 2:10)
… those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. (Titus 3:8)
From the beginning, God wanted people to work in cooperation with Him (Gen. 2:15, 19). As the Almighty God, He certainly doesn’t need help but rather desires our participation. What a privilege!
For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. (1 Cor. 3:9)
Serving is a Christ-like Way to Live
When we serve, we showcase our wonderful Lord to others “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” (Mk. 10:45).
We showcase His grace when we serve. It’s like we’re dispensers of His grace. — “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Pet. 4:10)
We show His love when we serve because truly serving isn’t about what we get out of it but what we give. — “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'”(Gal. 5:13-14) — We not only love others by serving them but we also show love for the Lord when we serve others. — “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matt. 25:40)
Serving is a Way to Give Back to God
We could never repay God for all He’s done for us but we can demonstrate our gratitude through serving.
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God-this is your true and proper worship. (Rom. 12:1)
But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you. (1 Sam. 12:24)
We can serve to bring praise and glory to God.
… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matt. 5:16)
… serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. … so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Pet. 4:10-11)
Serving is a Rewarded
In light of what we’ve noted above, reward is just a fringe benefit of serving. Certainly we have higher motivations. God does, however, promise rewards for serving when done with all our heart, as unto the Lord.
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. (Col. 3:23-24)
Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do .. (Eph. 6:7-8)
This is serving done as an outgrowth of our relationship with Him, pulling on His wisdom and power to do so. It is ministry done God’s way.
Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. (Matt. 7:22-23)
If anyone builds on this foundation (Jesus Christ) using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. (1 Cor. 3:12-14)
We may not see instant results in ministry. Serving God’s way may not always be easy. We can, however, persevere by clinging to His promise. It’s what enables us to “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” (Rom. 12:11)
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Gal. 6:9)
God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. (Heb. 6:10)
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