Service is an important part of Christian living. We are not spectators waiting to be entertained, but participants looking for ways to help out. In this sermon, John Cortright shows what Jesus taught us about service at the last supper as well as what sort of attitude we should have. So often we either critique from the sidelines or remain oblivious to the needs around us. Instead, we can take the initiative and jump in where there’s a need. This is a call to action!
Notes:
At the last supper, Jesus shared many important truths with his disciples that they would need to know after his departure.
John 13:1-17 Jesus washed the disciples’ feet and then explained why. Foot washing was an Eastern/biblical custom of service towards others (Gen 18:1-4; 19:1-2; 24:30-32; 43:16-24; 1 Samuel 25:40-41; Luke 7:44; 1 Tim 5:10). Jesus was their Teacher (Master) and Lord. If we are Christ’s disciples, he should be also our Lord and Master (Roman 10:9). If he is our Lord, then we ought to wash one another’s feet. The slave (the servant) is not greater than his master. Neither is the one who is sent greater than the one who sent him. Blessed are you if you “do” these things.
Luke 22:24-27 This account also took place during the last supper. The greatest should become the servant.
Romans 12:1 We are urged to present our bodies a living sacrifice, a spiritual service of worship.
Romans 12:2-11 We are individually members of the body of Christ, “each” having a function to perform.
Ephesians 4:7, 14-16 — “Each one” of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ’s gift.
1 Corinthians 12:4-6 — There are a variety of gifts, ministries, and effects, but it is one spirit, one Lord, and one God that works all things in all persons!
1 Corinthians 12:11 — One and the same spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually.
1 Corinthians 12:27 — Now you are Christ’s body and individually members of it.
1 Peter 4:7-11 The end of all things is near! So serve!!! As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another.
Philippians 2:1-13 Be intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit. Do not look out for your own interests but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude which was also in Christ Jesus! It is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.
Links:
- More Restitutio podcasts featuring John Cortright include 45 Talking with Jesus and 77 God Is Enough
- Check out dozens of more sermons by Cortright at the Living Hope International Ministries archive
- Take Cortright’s classes, including Isaiah and The Twelve (aka the ‘minor’ prophets)
- Intro music: “District Four” by Kevin MacLeod. Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License.