At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, our mission is to “Be the Change as Jesus Has Changed Us.” This mission is embodied in our “Just 3” principles: Study, Share, and Serve. In this blog post, we will explore the call to serve, as highlighted in Jim’s recent sermon, and how following Jesus’ example can transform our lives and the lives of those around us.

The Biblical Call to Serve

Service is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. In Galatians 5:13, Paul writes, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” This verse reminds us that our freedom in Christ is not a license for selfishness but an opportunity to serve others in love.

Jesus: The Ultimate Example of Service

Jesus set the ultimate example of service. In Matthew 20:25-28, He said, “But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus’ life was marked by acts of service, from washing His disciples’ feet to sacrificing His life on the cross.

Practical Ways to Serve

Jim’s sermon highlighted several practical ways we can serve, each aligned with specific spiritual gifts:

Prophecy: Speaking the truth of God. If you have a testimony or a message from God, share it. Your words can inspire and guide others.
Service: Meeting practical needs. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, helping a neighbor, or serving in the church, there are countless ways to serve.
Teaching: Imparting knowledge. If you have the gift of teaching, consider leading a Bible study or teaching a Sunday school class.
Exhortation: Encouraging others. Be a source of encouragement to those around you. A kind word or a listening ear can make a significant difference.
Giving: Contributing generously. Your financial support can help fund church activities, missions, and community outreach programs.
Leadership: Guiding others. If you have leadership skills, consider taking on a leadership role in the church or community.
Mercy: Showing compassion. Visit the sick, comfort the grieving, and show kindness to those in need.

The Joy of Serving

Serving others is not just a duty but a source of joy. When we serve, we experience the fulfillment that comes from living out our God-given purpose. As Jim mentioned, when we don’t use our gifts, we often find ourselves doing things that don’t bring us joy. However, when we serve in alignment with our gifts, we experience the greatest joy.

Living Out Our Mission

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we live out our mission through our “Just 3” principles:

Study: To love and know God. Engage in regular Bible study and prayer to deepen your relationship with Him.
Share: To know and love others. Build relationships and share the love of Christ through acts of service.
Serve: Love in action. Put your gifts into practice by serving in the church and the community.

Conclusion

Serving others is a vital part of the Christian life. By following Jesus’ example and using our spiritual gifts, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those around us. Let’s embrace the call to serve and live out our mission to “Be the Change as Jesus Has Changed Us.”