The Big Idea:

ServServinging isn’t something we do. A servant is who we are

Memory Verse

The greatest among you must be a servant

Matthew 23:11

Three Bible principles regarding serving

• Serving needs to be a lifestyle not just an isolated event

Down the road a way in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha, “Gazelle” in our language. She was well-known for doing good and helping out. During the time Peter was in the area she became sick and died. Her friends prepared her body for burial and put her in a cool room.

Acts 9:36-37

What are you always doing?

2. Motives matter. Why you serve is as important as what you do.

“Be especially careful when you are trying to be good so that you don’t make a performance out of it. It might be good theater, but the God who made you won’t be applauding.

Matthew 6:1

“Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.

Matthew 5:14-16

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others… you must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had

Philippians 2:3&5

3. Your service will be rewarded

Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults—unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don’t condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you’ll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity.” He quoted a proverb: “‘Can a blind man guide a blind man?’ Wouldn’t they both end up in the ditch? An apprentice doesn’t lecture the master. The point is to be careful who you follow as your teacher

Matthew 6:37-40

Give your gifts in private, and your Father who sees everything will reward you. ..

Matthew 6:4

Action step

Start where you are but don’t stay there