Message: ““The Heart of Serving – Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How”” from Joe Summers

“The Heart of Serving – Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How” Lesson Objective To help believers understand the biblical foundation, motivation, and practical application of serving God and others using the six guiding questions: Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How. Key Scripture Mark 10:45 (NIV): “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Other Supporting Verses: • Galatians 5:13 • John 13:12–15 • Colossians 3:23–24 • Matthew 25:35–40 • Romans 12:11 ________________________________________ Introduction I. Opening II. There is a story of Billy Graham and Mordecai Ham. An usher assisted starting the ministry of Billy Graham by offering him a seat at a revival. This gesture led to the commitment of Billy Graham. “When you think of serving, what comes to your mind — a job, a duty, or a joy?” • Read Mark 10:45 aloud. • Jesus’ example of service shows us not only what to do, but how to do it — humbly and wholeheartedly. ________________________________________ II. The Six Questions of Service 1. WHO should serve? • Everyone who follows Christ. Galatians 5:13 – “Serve one another humbly in love.” • Service isn’t limited to pastors, deacons, or leaders; it’s a calling for all believers. • Example: Jesus washing His disciples’ feet (John 13:12–15). • Reflection question: “Who has God placed in your life that you can serve this week?” ________________________________________ 2. WHAT does it mean to serve? • Serving means meeting needs with love and humility. • It can be spiritual (teaching, praying) or practical (helping, encouraging, giving). • It’s not about recognition, but obedience. • Example: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37). • Application: Serving is not about position, but posture — a heart willing to act. ________________________________________ 3. WHEN should we serve? • At every opportunity. Galatians 6:10 – “As we have opportunity, let us do good to all people.” • Don’t wait for perfect conditions; serve in the moment. • Example: Jesus served even while tired and busy (feeding the 5,000). • Reflection: “Do I see interruptions as inconveniences or opportunities to serve?” ________________________________________ 4. WHERE should we serve? • Everywhere God places us: o In the church o In the community o In the workplace o In our homes • Serving is not limited to church programs — it’s a daily lifestyle. • Example: Paul served both in prison and in freedom (Philippians 1:12–14). • Challenge: “Ask God to open your eyes to the needs around you.” ________________________________________ 5. WHY should we serve? • Because Jesus served us first. • Service is an act of love, gratitude, and obedience. • We serve to bring glory to God, not ourselves. Colossians 3:23–24 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart… it is the Lord Christ you are serving.” • Example: Jesus’ ultimate service on the cross. • Discussion: “What happens in a church when everyone serves out of love instead of obligation?” ________________________________________ 6. HOW should we serve? • With humility, excellence, and joy. o Humility: Philippians 2:3–4 o Excellence: Colossians 3:23 o Joy: 2 Corinthians 9:7 • Serve through the power of the Holy Spirit (not in your own strength). • Practical Tips: o Start small o Be consistent o Encourage others to join you o Reflect Jesus in your attitude • . ________________________________________ III. Closing • Summarize: o Who: Everyone o What: Meeting needs with love o When: At every opportunity o Where: Everywhere o Why: Because Christ served us o How: With humility, joy, and the Spirit’s power • Closing Scripture: Matthew 25:40 “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” • End with a short prayer asking God to give each person a servant’s heart. ______________________________

More Messages from Joe Summers

From Series: "Sunday Service"

These are the regularly scheduled Sunday lessons