Servants of the Servant King: Embracing Humble Service

Introduction

A. Jesus as Imago Dei: the true human who represents the true God. We represent God by serving creation and others.

B. Image of servant: Phil 2:5-11 and John 13:1-17.

wash feet: only Greek slaves or children.

humus is dirt that is fertile. It is the base word for “human” and “humility.”

B. Accepting God’s word and deed is the only way to be a part of him, that is, to share in the inheritance of his Kingdom.

C. Contrast the betrayer who is swallowed up in the dark night only to eventually commit suicide and never taste the blessings of life with the disciples who remain loyal and accept Christ’s word and deed and are a part of the Kingdom of God.

Application: By embracing humble service, Christians can break down barriers of pride and self-interest, fostering genuine love and community. This message encourages believers to assess their own attitudes and practices, challenging them to find areas where they can serve others selflessly.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that true greatness in the kingdom of God is found in service to others, as exemplified by Christ. It highlights that humility is not a weakness but a strength that fosters deep relationships within the body of Christ.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of the Bible, Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of humble service, as seen in His life, death, and resurrection. He modeled humility by washing His disciples' feet and offering His life as a ransom for many, illustrating the heart of God's plan for redeeming humanity through servant leadership.

Big Idea: To be a disciple of Christ is to embrace the radical call to humble service, knowing that true fulfillment comes from serving others as He served us.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, delve into the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels that illustrate His humble service, particularly John 13 when He washes His disciples' feet. Investigate exegetical insights on key terms related to service and humility, and consider how they might differ in various translations. Use your Logos library to analyze the cultural and historical context of servanthood in biblical times, which could help deepen your application for today's audience.

1. Servants Wash Feet

John 13:1-5

You could illustrate the scene where Jesus washes the feet of His disciples to show a powerful act of humility and love. This demonstration of service challenges us to let go of pride and engage in practical acts of kindness. By starting here, the sermon sets the stage for understanding humility not as a weakness, but as a divine quality that contrasts with worldly views of power. Christ’s actions here encapsulate the servant leadership He calls us to follow.

2. Submission to Service

John 13:6-11

Perhaps highlight Peter's initial resistance to Jesus washing his feet. This section reveals the discomfort we often feel in accepting such humility and the deep spiritual meaning behind Jesus' actions. It suggests that accepting service with grace and understanding is as vital as offering it. The resistance also reflects our struggle with vulnerability and pride, which hinder true fellowship and humility. By accepting Christ's service, we learn to accept His love and salvation, which compels us to serve others.

3. Selfless Service Commanded

John 13:12-17

Maybe emphasize the conclusion of the washing, where Jesus unpacks the lesson of service for His disciples. ‘Do as I have done to you’ is a profound command that turns spectators into participants. This point can stress imitation of Christ as central to discipleship and emphasize that serving others brings blessings and fulfillment. By adopting Jesus’ example, Christians embody His kingdom values, transforming communities through everyday acts of love.

Summary: This theme emphasizes the importance of humility in the life of a Christian, reflecting Christ's example of servant leadership.

Application: By embracing humble service, Christians can break down barriers of pride and self-interest, fostering genuine love and community. This message encourages believers to assess their own attitudes and practices, challenging them to find areas where they can serve others selflessly.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that true greatness in the kingdom of God is found in service to others, as exemplified by Christ. It highlights that humility is not a weakness but a strength that fosters deep relationships within the body of Christ.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of the Bible, Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of humble service, as seen in His life, death, and resurrection. He modeled humility by washing His disciples' feet and offering His life as a ransom for many, illustrating the heart of God's plan for redeeming humanity through servant leadership.

Big Idea: To be a disciple of Christ is to embrace the radical call to humble service, knowing that true fulfillment comes from serving others as He served us.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, delve into the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels that illustrate His humble service, particularly John 13 when He washes His disciples' feet. Investigate exegetical insights on key terms related to service and humility, and consider how they might differ in various translations. Use your Logos library to analyze the cultural and historical context of servanthood in biblical times, which could help deepen your application for today's audience.

1. Servants Wash Feet

John 13:1-5

You could illustrate the scene where Jesus washes the feet of His disciples to show a powerful act of humility and love. This demonstration of service challenges us to let go of pride and engage in practical acts of kindne

5992 Because Christ Jesus came to the world clothed in humility, he will always be found among those who are clothed with humility. He will be found among the humble people.

A. W. Tozer

ss. By starting here, the sermon sets the stage for understanding humility not as a weakness, but as a divine quality that contrasts with worldly views of power. Christ’s actions here encapsulate the servant leadership He calls us to follow.

2. Submission to Service

John 13:6-11

Perhaps highlight Peter's initial resistance to Jesus washing his feet. This section reveals the discomfort we often feel in accepting such humility and the deep spiritual meaning behind Jesus' actions. It suggests that accepting service with grace and understanding is as vital as offering it. The resistance also reflects our struggle with vulnerability and pride, which hinder true fellowship and humility. By accepting Christ's service, we learn to accept His love and salvation, which compels us to serve others.

3. Selfless Service Commanded

John 13:12-17

Maybe emphasize the conclusion of the washing, where Jesus unpacks the lesson of service for His disciples. ‘Do as I have done to you’ is a profound command that turns spectators into participants. This point can stress imitation of Christ as central to discipleship and emphasize that serving others brings blessings and fulfillment. By adopting Jesus’ example, Christians embody His kingdom values, transforming communities through everyday acts of love.