Servanthood

Servants in the Shadows: The Power of Humble Service

Bible Passage: Acts 6:1-7

Summary: In Acts 6:1-7, the early church faces internal challenges due to a complaint from the Hellenistic Jews regarding the distribution of food. The apostles respond by appointing seven men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, to serve and handle this issue, allowing the apostles to focus on prayer and the ministry of the Word. This passage reveals the importance of servanthood and how it supports the overall mission of the church.

Application: This sermon can encourage Christians to embrace servanthood in their own lives, understanding that significant contributions can often happen behind the scenes. It reminds believers that every role in the church is vital and enhances the body of Christ, encouraging them to look for ways to serve others beyond their own needs.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that servanthood is foundational to the health and growth of the church. It shows how acknowledging and addressing needs through service can lead to unity and greater effectiveness in ministry, highlighting that God uses ordinary people to fulfill His purposes.

How this passage could point to Christ: Christ exemplifies the ultimate act of servanthood through His life, death, and resurrection. He modeled serving others, especially in His willingness to wash His disciples' feet and His sacrificial love on the cross. This passage reflects His heart for the marginalized and demonstrates that service is a form of love that mirrors Christ’s mission.

Big Idea: Authentic servanthood, as exemplified by the early church, is essential for advancing God’s kingdom and fostering unity in the body of Christ.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider using your Logos library to delve into the cultural context of Acts 6, particularly the dynamics between Hellenistic and Hebraic believers. Study commentaries on this passage to uncover deeper insights about the criteria for selecting the servants and the implications for church leadership. Investigate how other churches throughout history have implemented similar principles of service to address needs within their congregations.

1. Service Sows Solutions

Acts 6:1-2

Perhaps you could begin by addressing the growth of the early church which led to practical issues like the neglect of certain members. This can open up discussions on the importance of being aware of and addressing needs within our own communities. Highlight that neglect undermines unity and that the church must be responsive to the needs of all its members. This sets the stage for exploring how servanthood is essential for maintaining unity and addressing grievances.

2. Delegation Delivers Strength

Acts 6:3-4

You might explore how the apostles prioritized prayer and ministry while delegating service tasks to others. This demonstrates how delegation of service roles strengthens the community and allows leaders to focus on their calling. It affirms that all roles in the church, especially those in the shadows, are necessary and divinely appointed. In this way, servanthood empowers others and supports the broader mission of the church.

3. Servanthood Spurs Growth

Acts 6:5-7

Consider emphasizing how the appointment of the seven led to church growth and unity. This can illustrate the outcome of faithful servanthood and how it mirrors Christ’s work of love and reconciliation. By entrusting others and focusing on service, the community flourished. Encouraging listeners to seek ways to serve will reveal how service is an impactful form of love that advances God’s kingdom.