SERVICE [Rhythms]
Notes
Transcript
Handout
Sermon Tone Analysis
A
D
F
J
S
Emotion
A
C
T
Language
O
C
E
A
E
Social
ANNOUCEMENTS:
VERITAS 10 YEAR PARTY (OCT 7 6pm)
REFUGE FUNDRAISER
Welcome
We’re in a series discussing our rhythms at Veritas. What does that mean? HOW SHOULD A CHRISTIAN LIVE?! WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM US AS A CHURCH?!
This is important?
We said we are founded on the Gospel
We live in a world filled with chaos and confusion
I think this is primarily because there is on agreed upon AUTHORITY structure. TRUTH is seen as relative. Individuals are responsible for deciding what is important.
This is too much for any person to carry!
SO, chaos results… We need a grid… we need a foundation! We need a “MAP OF MEANING.”
THINK ABOUT IT: (1) If you needed to get to St. Louis and you had no map, what would you do? (2) On top of that, what if you approached someone and asked how to get to St. Louis and they responded by saying, “St. Louis is whatever you want it to be, man...”
You’d just be confused. That might sound like FREEDOM — but you’d just end up wondering aimlessly.
At the end of the day, we think not having boundaries is FREEDOM but it’s actually the worst kind of OPPRESSION.
OUR GRID IS THE GOSPEL!
For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.
2 weeks ago we reviewed our rhythm of WORSHIP.
colossians
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
We are made to worship God!
Last week, we reviewed our rhythm of Community!
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.
We’re made to WORSHIP God in the context of a committed Christian community.
So if you missed the last few weeks, I encourage you to go back and listen to those on the website (veritascolumbus.com) or on the APP.
Today, we’re looking at SERVICE! Our third rhythm is Service.
So if you’re able, please stand with me for the reading of God’s Word.
So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy,
complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.
Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,
who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,
but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.
And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name,
so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Today we’re going to examine several things: (1) First, I think this text gives a good theological foundation for Service. (2) Secondly, we’re going to examine the scope of our service and (3) Lastly, we will take a look at some practical considerations regarding service at Veritas and beyond.
THEOLOGY OF SERVICE
God is a God who Serves
Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,
who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,
but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.
And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
This is extraordinary!
When we think of rulers, CEO’s, kings, bosses — what kind of people do we think of?
What typically characterizes individuals who have lots of power?
Often, power brings out the WORST in people.
If you struggle with something — and you want to know how to exaggerate it or make it worse… just come into a place of more power, influence, or importance!
POWER tends to highlight and magnify the shadow qualities of people’s character.
This is what is so fascinating then — to realize that GOD IS A GOD WHO SERVES!
this shouldn’t be something that we pass over
this is incredibly unique and GOOD!
God could’ve been a tyrant like so many other earthly rulers we’ve seen throughout history.
But this is not what we see in Scripture… we see a God who continually pursues a wretched people.
Particularly in ...
but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.
Theologians have referred to this emptying as KENOSIS.
Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Bible Doctrine Kenosis Theory
kenosis theory: The theory that Christ gave up some his divine attributes while he was on earth as a man (from the Greek verb κενόω, G3033, which means “to empty”). (26B.3)
Jesus, being God (always God), emptied himself.
Jesus takes human form… experiencing with it, the limitations of being human.
And Jesus takes the form of a servant!
A servant! Of all things…
In this… God identifies with us. “Walks in our shoes” as it were… This is significant.
Leads the writer of Hebrews to say...
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
God is, therefore, NOT out of touch with our struggles — because he has experienced our struggles.
He has been hungry, poor, alone, tired, week, wounded!
Jesus doesn’t stand far off and expect us to fix ourselves by ourselves! Jesus draws near… Jesus prepares the way… Jesus patiently and graciously pursues us in our (a) weaknesses, in our (b) struggles, in our (c) failures
Jesus takes the form of a SERVANT!
How do we respond?
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.
Because Jesus empties himself… he calls us to do the same.
Jesus sets the standard!
Jesus sets the bar and calls us to follow his example!
So the last will be first, and the first last.”
And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
Jesus is reorganizing the way we are to live!
“You want life?! You want peace?! You want joy?! You want purpose?! — HUMBLE YOURSELF.”
This is a different way of viewing the world… but it’s the right way. It’s the way Jesus calls us to!
SELFISH AMBITION
Ambition isn’t always bad, but it’s bad when it’s ALL ABOUT YOU!
When you have a strong desire for personal success that is over and above your desire to please God and be in community with others — you are outside of God’s will for your life!
Because this is what it says in the BIBLE!
That is selfish ambition.
VAIN CONCEIT
pride!
ego!
I’m always thinking I am better than I am
People confess a lot of things, rarely do they confess pride — it’s such an insidious thing in us — we’re often so blind to it.
HUMILITY, COUNT OTHERS MORE SIGNIFICANT THAN YOU
This is such a fantastically large call to Action!
CS Lewis -said:
Probably all you will think about him is that he seemed a cheerful, intelligent chap who took a real interest in what you said to him.
“Do not imagine that if you meet a really humble man he will be what most people call 'humble' nowadays: he will not be a sort of greasy, smarmy person, who is always telling you that, of course, he is nobody. Probably all you will think about him is that he seemed a cheerful, intelligent chap who took a real interest in what you said to him. If you do dislike him it will be because you feel a little envious of anyone who seems to enjoy life so easily. He will not be thinking about humility: he will not be thinking about himself at all.”
If you do dislike him it will be because you feel a little envious of anyone who seems to enjoy life so easily. He will not be thinking about humility: he will not be thinking about himself at all.”
Most of our struggles come down to a lack of humility!
THE SCOPE OF SERVICE
So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.
So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy,
complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.
complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.
BECAUSE GOD IS A GOD WHO SERVES:
encouragement in Christ (V. 1)
comfort
comfort (V.1)
2 cor 1
participation of the spirit (V. 1)
participation of the spirit
PROPER RESPONSE:
being overjoyed (V.2)
WHAT IS THE SCOPE OF OUR SERVICE?
inside and outside the church
Inside
Inside
We serve those inside the church
So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.
The church community itself has needs and we are called to care for one another.
Practical needs, such as in crisis — financial, care, take care of responsibilities
Again, as we spoke about last week in terms of community — it’s likened to FAMILY.
So just as family needs arise, and the family organizes together to care and meet needs — we are called to do that as a local church!
As we see here in — we shouldn’t serve outsiders to the detriment of those inside. We need to ensure that we are serving one another!
Now, here’s the challenge then — Some low-hanging fruit is easily seen on Sunday. How many of you consider this your church home?
How many of you that consider this your church home — how many of you are SERVING THIS CHURCH in some capacity? There are various responsibilities and things that need tended to just to make Sunday gatherings a reality — so we can come together and WORSHIP & BE REMINDED of the Gospel together.
Are you serving in some capacity here? If you consider this your home, and you’re not doing that — that is a great place to start!
Our families are served when you serve in kids ministry
Members and guests are served when you serve on the Connect team to provide a smooth and functional Sunday morning!
People come here early in the morning, on the music team, to ensure that we have songs to sing and responsive readings to reflect upon
Someone has to do all of that!
If you call this place HOME & your just leaving all that up to other people, that’s not right! We’re all needed — you are keeping the church from experiencing your gifts, your contribution to the body of Christ!
Outside
Outside
We are also called to serve those outside the church community!
Phil
Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
We are to be Christ’s ambassadors to the neighborhoods around us!
We are to exemplify Jesus love to others.
But we must first recognize our own need for God in order to do this in a healthy manner.
We realize that we’ve been saved by grace
We realize that we were dead in our sins
Because God has shown a great deal of mercy to us, we are now called to show a great deal of mercy to others!
Who is already in your life?
Who is already in your life?
Who are your neighbors?
Who’s in your community group?
What outreach opportunities is Veritas presenting you with?
Who’s right in front of you?
Are you paying attention.
***WE ARE CALLED TO SERVE THOSE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE CHURCH
SERVING IN ACTION
So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy,
Simeon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained a faith of equal standing with ours by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ:
Over-worker & the Never-worker
OVERWORKER
Some of these individuals aren’t in here right now because they are busy serving somewhere
I think of the classic 80/20 rule… 20% of people do 80% pf the work
This leads the 80% to think everything is taken care of and they either (1) aren’t needed or they (2) would just get in the way | step on toes
I think we would all be healthier and less busy if the work was more evenly distributed… Those of you that tend to overextend yourselves — begin to think in terms of priorities and calling...
PRIORITIES
what is most important to you?
how has the God gifted you?
How can you best use your gifts to serve the church community?
what can you do that only you can do?
maybe you have a unique passion or talent
CALLING
is there a conviction that God continues to put on your heart?
is there anything you sense the Lord leading you towards?
Quit doing everything, but do something.
In this, you’ll be less stressed and more effective
You will help yourself, honor God, and be more present with others.
NEVERWORKER
Do something!
Maybe we haven’t done a good job of asking you...
But engage in some way. Even if it’s small, it’s something and it adds value to the community
You are uniquely gifted and the Lord has brought you here to for a reason.
How can you serve the body?
If you don’t know where to engage — consider two needs we have: CONNECT and/or KIDS… Both serve a lot of people and they are a great way to connect with others in our community!
But I think it’s important for all of us to do something. We are called to serve as Christ has served us.
And feel the liberty to be creative.
We are open and willing to explore other things… more ministry simply means we need more LEADERS. Ministry doesn’t happen without PEOPLE.
so if there is something burdening you, MAYBE THE LORD IS CALLING YOU TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!!!
Commitment Over Convenience
It’s amazing how many people I talk to that want to see God move…
“Oh, I am willing to do whatever, just let me know… I want to serve God’s people...” So on and so on
And then the moment they are inconvenienced, they complain or bail.
Service is going to be an inconvenience at times!
We’re not called to ease or convenience, we’re called to be obedient to the opportunities God puts in front of us.
We’re called to be faithful
Once you sense the Lord leading you towards something, pursue it… DO SOMETHING!
and I pray that our commitment would be a priority over and above us being worried about any inconvenience
Relationally-Driven Service
We desire to do service within the context of relationships
This just means that — service shouldn’t be an escape from relationships
I’ve noticed that sometimes, people can be so engaged in serving that they forget that the aim of their service is ALL ABOUT PEOPLE!
We need to remember that… We don’t serve for the sake of service… Jesus didn’t…
All the service Jesus did revolved around people! Ours should as well!
(From survey) What would you say to someone who feels their gifting’s don’t line up with any service opportunities already present?
Approach myself or one of the other leaders and let us know what you’re gifted in and how you might use that to serve the church
Just don’t leave it there and let that be an excuse
Be creative!
And if nothing comes to mind, then serve in one of the ways already present in the life of the church!
(From Survey) At West, people would like to see trainings that would specifically lead them to help in the neighborhood: trainings on race, trauma, and poverty. Perhaps the trainings would allow people to tackle issues in the neighborhood beyond addiction.
These take a lot of work to put on
At West, people would like to see trainings that would specifically lead them to help in the neighborhood: trainings on race, trauma, and poverty. Perhaps the trainings would allow people to tackle issues in the neighborhood beyond addiction.
We’ve done a handful of them in the past w/out much engagement (to be honest)
So we’d be more than happy to facilitate trainings, but we don’t want to do it if nobody is going to show up
If you want some specific training — let me know! I want to know how our people want to grow — and then we can figure out what is realistic and if we can meet that need
At West, people would like to see trainings that would specifically lead them to help in the neighborhood: trainings on race, trauma, and poverty. Perhaps the trainings would allow people to tackle issues in the neighborhood beyond addiction.
APPLICATION
The Way of Service is the Way of Joy.
A fulfilling life isn’t found in complete self reliance and self preoccupation
We think happiness and joy are found if we just get more of what we want
But there’s always more to want
JOY IS WHEN WE HUMBLE ourselves and like Christ, SERVE others!
serving those in the church
serving those outside the church
paying attention — looking for opportunities to use the gifts and talents God has given us to be a blessing to others!
This is FULFILLING
COMMUNITY GROUP REFLECTION
Reread . How can we cultivate the humility we see displayed in Jesus?
Why is it important that our service is relationally-driven? What does that mean?
Do I tend to be an over-worker or a never-worker?
COMMUNION
L: In the night in which he was betrayed, Our lord Jesus took bread,He gave thanks; broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you.Do this for the remembrance of me.
L: Again, after supper,He took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying; this cup is The new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin.Do this for the remembrance of me. Silent Reflection – to prepare our hearts toCome to the Lords table
L: Jesus' death brings us life and this meal reminds us that we are fed by Jesus and forgiven because of Jesus.
C: We rejoice that You have died, have risen, and are now with the Father advocating for us. Amen.
L: With our money, time, and talent we give generously, knowing that through Your Son, Jesus, You have generously given to us.
C: We rejoice that You have given everything and we joyfully give everything back to Your care. Amen.
L: If you believe Jesus died to forgive you your sins you are welcome to come,
L: Come for all is ready
BENEDICTION
Based on what people were noticing about our culture of service, it seems like we’d do well to divide people into one of two categories and then preach accordingly: the over worker and the never worker.
What would you say to someone who feels their gifting’s don’t line up with any service opportunities already present?
We could help people see the importance of receiving service as well as giving it. One person said, “This would help us get out of the mode of thinking that service always looks like us meeting others’ needs, and it might liberate us to find ways to serve people and communities whose needs aren’t so stark or centered around poverty.
comfort
2 cor 1
Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
participation of the spirit
His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence,
by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.
For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge,
and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness,
and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love.
-
---------
Probably all you will think about him is that he seemed a cheerful, intelligent chap who took a real interest in what you said to him.
If you do dislike him it will be because you feel a little envious of anyone who seems to enjoy life so easily. He will not be thinking about humility: he will not be thinking about himself at all.”