Power Point - January 20, 2005

 

January 20, 2005

 

For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established—that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.

-Romans 1:11-12

 

Why do we do what we do for Jesus Christ? Why do we have a church? Why do we have a ministry? There are various reasons why people have served God over the years. And some, mind you, are external and not so good.

 

For example, some out of legalism, who think by working and serving God and working their fingers to the bone, somehow they can attain favor with God and gain heaven. That’s legalism. And, of course, we know that the Bible teaches us that it is by grace that we’re “…saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

 

There are those who serve God, like the Pharisees in the New Testament, because they love the chief seats and love to be seen as holy, pious, and reverential. And we can’t forget those who serve God because of peer pressure. They may even be in a church that says, “You must do this,” and “You need to do that.” And lastly, let’s not leave out those who serve God for the money. Because, frankly, Jesus sells especially in today’s market.

 

The Bible teaches just the opposite of these ways. The Scripture teaches that we are never good enough and we can never do enough to get us into heaven. It is only by the finished work of Jesus Christ who died on the cross for our sins, who was buried, and on the third day rose again. And when we, by faith, put our trust in Him, repent of our sins, and receive Christ as our Savior we are saved. Then…we serve God. We work out of thanksgiving to Him.

 

What should prompt you to true spiritual service? What should motivate you to serve? Your genuine love and devotion to Jesus Christ. He has gifted you with a certain talent in spiritual service. Commit today to use what He’s given you to serve, and don’t let it go to waste.

 

EVERY CHRISTIAN SHOULD HAVE A PRAISING, POSITIVE,

PRAYERFUL, AND PRACTICAL SPIRIT IN SERVING THE LORD.