This morning, I want to ask, who brought their Bibles? Please open them because we will delve deeply into God’s Word today. Our focus will be on serving just as Jesus did. Let’s look at the account where Jesus explains to the mother of Zebedee’s sons how greatness comes through serving others.

Please turn with me to Luke 17:6-10. Here, Jesus is speaking to His apostles who ask about increasing their faith. Jesus responds by saying that even with faith as small as a mustard seed, one could command a mulberry tree to uproot and plant itself in the sea, and it would obey. He then speaks of a servant who, after a long day of work, is still expected to serve his master before eating himself. This teaches us humility and duty in our service to God.

Jesus lived as our ultimate example. Sadly, in today’s culture, being a servant is often unpopular. Many focus on looking out for themselves. However, in Matthew 20 and Luke 17, God calls us to live and serve others rather than seeking to be served. Let’s examine Jesus’ attitudes and teachings on service, starting with Acts 20:35. Paul, speaking to the Ephesian elders, reminds them of Jesus’ words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Serving others, as Jesus did, brings true happiness.

A personal story comes to mind. A few years ago, near Thanksgiving, a woman approached Joanna and me, sharing that she had nothing to serve her children. We had plenty, so we gave her a turkey and all the fixings. The joy it brought us was immense. We are called to do this as individuals and as a congregation—help those in need.

In Ephesians 2:10, Paul speaks about being created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared for us. Doing these good works brings us happiness. When we bear each other’s burdens, we lighten our own. Jesus also taught us that our service should be intentional. Colossians 3:22-24 tells us to serve not just to please men but with sincerity, as serving the Lord.

Ask yourself: What has Jesus done for you that would make you withhold good from Him? Our service needs to be deliberate, knowing we are serving the Lord. Philippians 2:1-4 teaches us to serve humbly, considering others better than ourselves, just as Jesus did. Hebrews 6:9-12 reminds us that God will not forget our work and the love we have shown Him by helping His people.

Lastly, we must serve regardless of circumstances. In 2 Timothy 3:12, Paul warns that all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will face persecution. Whether it’s ridicule or any other form of persecution, we must continue to serve. 1 Peter 4:12-14 tells us to rejoice in our sufferings for Christ, knowing it glorifies Him.

Even in the face of trials, like Job, we must persist in our service. In 2 Timothy 4:2, Paul instructs Timothy to preach and serve in and out of season. As Christians, we must do the same. Jesus taught that service brings happiness, should be intentional, and should be done with humility and persistence.

Our Lord came to serve, as stated in Matthew 20:28. As true disciples, we strive to conform our lives to His, serving our fellow man. Where do you stand this morning? If you are not yet a child of God, I urge you to hear the gospel, repent, confess Jesus as the Son of God, and be baptized for the remission of your sins. Live faithfully unto the end.

If you are already a child of God but are struggling, remember that we all face trials.