Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death–even death on a cross! Philippians 2:3-8
One might think that the picture of the statue of Jesus washing Peter’s feet that accompanies this post is from a church. But if so, you’re wrong. The statue can be found at Southern Freight Lines in Lexington, South Carolina. Appropriately, the statue is in its support center. Clearly, Southern Freight Lines wants to send a message about their support values while at the same time being a witness to the world.
Having a Christlike servant-heart ethic in a secular business is laudable, but what does it look like for a church to have Christ’s heart of service?
Here are four qualities of a servant-heart church.
- A servant-heart church has leadership that understands, teaches, preaches, and practices “the mind of Christ” constantly. A church cannot have a servant-heart without servant leaders. “In everything I did I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak.” Acts 20:23
- A servant-heart church constantly looks for and provides opportunities to serve. These service opportunities are not simply program oriented, but personal needs oriented. All churches provide opportunities to serve. But often these service opportunities are simply program oriented. Fewer churches focus on meeting the actual pressing needs of people inside and outside its four walls. “Through love, serve one another.” Galatians 5:13
- A servant-heart church maintains close contact with community leaders. Communicating a “How can we help?” attitude with political, cultural and educational leaders enables the church to know and effectively address practical needs within the community. “Let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Galatians 6:10
- A servant heart church has no unmet pressing needs. A genuine servant-heart church always meets the pressing needs in its midst. “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need and has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” 1 John 3:17
Not a leader in your church? Why not be one by finding needs among your fellow believers and taking practical action to meet them?
This post first appeared in NewCommandment.org.
A Simple Ministry Concept with Profound Implications
Teams of four men serving widows, single moms, fatherless children and others with long-term pressing needs in their churches and communities.
