Acts of service are a fundamental aspect of Christian living, deeply rooted in the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. The Bible is replete with instances and exhortations that highlight the importance of serving others. As a non-denominational Christian pastor, I believe that exploring these examples can inspire and guide us in our daily practices.
One of the most profound examples of service in the Bible is found in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of John, we witness a poignant act of service during the Last Supper. Jesus, knowing that His time on earth was drawing to a close, chose to wash the feet of His disciples. This act, recorded in John 13:1-17, was not just a demonstration of humility but also a powerful lesson on servanthood. Jesus said, "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet" (John 13:14, ESV). Through this act, Jesus illustrated that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is found in serving others, not in being served.
Another compelling example is the Parable of the Good Samaritan, found in Luke 10:25-37. In this parable, Jesus tells the story of a man who was beaten, robbed, and left for dead on the side of the road. Several individuals, including a priest and a Levite, saw the man but chose to pass by without offering assistance. It was a Samaritan, considered an outsider and enemy by the Jews, who stopped to help the injured man. The Samaritan provided immediate care, took the man to an inn, and ensured his continued recovery by paying for his stay. Jesus used this parable to teach that love and service should transcend social, ethnic, and religious boundaries. He concluded by urging His listeners to "go and do likewise" (Luke 10:37, ESV), emphasizing that acts of service are a tangible expression of love for our neighbor.
The early church, as described in the Book of Acts, provides additional examples of communal service. Acts 2:44-45 describes how the believers "had all things in common" and "were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need" (ESV). This radical generosity and commitment to meeting the needs of others were hallmarks of the early Christian community. Similarly, in Acts 6:1-7, we see the appointment of the first deacons to ensure that the daily distribution of food was managed fairly, particularly for the widows. This act of service ensured that the physical needs of the community were met, allowing the apostles to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word.
The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently exhorts believers to serve one another in love. 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" (ESV). This call to service is rooted in the freedom we have in Christ and is an expression of our faith working through love. Paul also highlights specific acts of service in his letters. In Romans 12:13, he encourages believers to "contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality" (ESV). Hospitality, caring for the needs of fellow believers, and being generous with our resources are all practical ways to serve others.
In addition to these examples, the Bible also provides guidance on the attitude and heart behind our service. In Philippians 2:3-4, Paul writes, "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others" (ESV). This passage underscores that our acts of service should be motivated by humility and a genuine concern for the well-being of others, reflecting the attitude of Christ Himself.
James, the brother of Jesus, also emphasizes the importance of putting faith into action through service. In James 2:14-17, he challenges believers by stating that faith without works is dead. He illustrates this by asking, "If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace, be warmed and filled,' without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?" (James 2:15-16, ESV). James makes it clear that genuine faith is demonstrated through practical acts of service that meet the tangible needs of others.
The Old Testament also offers numerous examples of service. One notable instance is the story of Ruth and Boaz in the Book of Ruth. Ruth, a Moabite widow, chose to stay with her mother-in-law Naomi and care for her, despite the personal cost. Ruth's dedication and service to Naomi are evident as she gleans in the fields to provide for their needs. Boaz, in turn, demonstrates service through his kindness and protection of Ruth, ultimately becoming her kinsman-redeemer. This story beautifully illustrates how acts of service can transform lives and fulfill God's purposes.
Another Old Testament example is found in the life of Joseph. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph rose to a position of great authority in Egypt. When a severe famine struck, Joseph used his position to serve not only the Egyptians but also his own family, who came seeking food. In Genesis 50:20, Joseph acknowledges God's hand in his journey, saying, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today" (ESV). Joseph's life demonstrates how God can use acts of service, even in difficult circumstances, to bring about His greater plan.
The Bible also encourages service to those outside the faith community. In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus speaks of the final judgment and separates the righteous from the unrighteous based on their acts of service. He commends those who fed the hungry, gave drink to the thirsty, welcomed the stranger, clothed the naked, cared for the sick, and visited the imprisoned. Jesus identifies Himself with the least of these, saying, "Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me" (Matthew 25:40, ESV). This passage underscores that acts of service to the marginalized and vulnerable are integral to living out our faith.
In addition to these scriptural examples, Christian literature also offers valuable insights into acts of service. One notable work is "The Practice of the Presence of God" by Brother Lawrence, a 17th-century Carmelite monk. Brother Lawrence emphasized that every act, no matter how mundane, can be an act of service and worship when done with love and for the glory of God. Whether peeling potatoes in the kitchen or engaging in prayer, Brother Lawrence's life exemplified the integration of service and spirituality.
Another influential work is "The Cost of Discipleship" by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Bonhoeffer, a German theologian and pastor, emphasized that following Christ involves a life of costly service. He challenged believers to take up their cross and follow Jesus, even when it requires sacrifice and suffering. Bonhoeffer's life and writings continue to inspire Christians to serve others selflessly and courageously.
In conclusion, the Bible provides a rich tapestry of examples and teachings on acts of service. From the life of Jesus and the early church to the exhortations of Paul and James, we see that service is a fundamental expression of our faith and love for God and others. Whether through humble acts of kindness, radical generosity, or meeting the practical needs of those around us, we are called to serve with humility, compassion, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. As we follow the example of Christ and the teachings of Scripture, may our lives be marked by acts of service that reflect the love and grace of our Savior.
