InstaStudy

The Divine Call to Serve: Embracing Volunteering for All Through the Power of the Holy Ghost.

This Bible study explores the profound call to service that God extends to every believer, emphasizing how the indwelling power of the Holy Ghost equips and empowers us to fulfill this divine mandate. We will examine Christ's example, the nature of true service, and how to overcome common barriers, all while understanding the eternal impact of our commitment.

1. Understanding the Divine Call

1.1 God's Universal Invitation to Serve

Verses: Matthew 20:26-28; Mark 10:43-45; 1 Peter 4:10
  • Service is not optional but a fundamental aspect of discipleship, following the example of Christ.
  • Every believer is uniquely gifted by God to contribute to His kingdom work.
  • God's call to serve extends to all, regardless of background or perceived ability.

1.2 Jesus Christ: The Ultimate Example and Source of the Call

Verses: Philippians 2:5-8; John 13:12-15; Matthew 23:11
  • Jesus, who is God manifested in flesh, demonstrated perfect servanthood.
  • His life and ministry provide the blueprint for our own service.
  • The call to serve originates from Him, our Lord and Master.

1.3 The Purpose of Our Service

Verses: Ephesians 2:10; Colossians 3:23-24; 1 Corinthians 10:31
  • We are created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand.
  • Our service is ultimately unto the Lord, not merely to people.
  • The ultimate goal is to glorify God in all that we do.

2. The Empowerment for Service: The Holy Ghost

2.1 The Promise of the Spirit

Verses: Acts 1:4-5; Acts 2:38-39; John 14:16-18
  • God promised to send His Spirit to empower believers for life and service.
  • The Holy Ghost is the Spirit of God, the very Spirit of Jesus Christ, dwelling within us.
  • This promise is for all who believe and obey the gospel.

2.2 The Holy Ghost as Our Enabler

Verses: Acts 1:8; Romans 8:26; 2 Timothy 1:7
  • The Spirit provides power to be witnesses and to perform God's will.
  • He helps in our weaknesses, interceding and guiding us.
  • God has given us a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind, not of fear.

2.3 Spiritual Gifts for Service

Verses: 1 Corinthians 12:4-7; Romans 12:6-8; Ephesians 4:11-12
  • The Holy Ghost distributes diverse spiritual gifts to equip believers for ministry.
  • These gifts are given for the profit of all and the edification of the body.
  • Every gift, no matter how small, is vital for the effective functioning of the church.

3. The Nature of Christian Service

3.1 Serving with Love and Humility

Verses: 1 Corinthians 13:1-3; Galatians 5:13; Philippians 2:3-4
  • Love is the foundational motive for all true Christian service.
  • Service must be characterized by humility, considering others better than ourselves.
  • Without love, even great acts of service are meaningless in God's eyes.

3.2 Serving the 'Least of These'

Verses: Matthew 25:34-40; James 1:27; Proverbs 19:17
  • Jesus identifies with the poor, the sick, the imprisoned, and the marginalized.
  • Our service to those in need is considered service directly to Him.
  • Caring for the vulnerable is a demonstration of pure and undefiled religion.

3.3 Serving in the Church and Community

Verses: Hebrews 10:24-25; Galatians 6:10; Titus 3:1
  • Believers are called to serve within the local assembly, building up one another.
  • Our good works should extend beyond the church walls to benefit all people.
  • We are to be ready for every good work, demonstrating Christ's love to the world.

4. Overcoming Barriers to Service

4.1 Overcoming Fear and Insecurity

Verses: Isaiah 41:10; Joshua 1:9; 2 Timothy 1:7
  • God's presence assures us, removing fear of inadequacy or failure.
  • He empowers us with courage and strength for every task.
  • The Spirit within us is a spirit of power, not of timidity.

4.2 Overcoming Busyness and Procrastination

Verses: Ephesians 5:15-16; Colossians 4:5; James 4:17
  • We must redeem the time, making the most of every opportunity for service.
  • Wisdom involves prioritizing God's call over worldly distractions.
  • Knowing what is right to do and not doing it is sin.

4.3 Overcoming Selfishness and Pride

Verses: Luke 9:23-24; Galatians 2:20; 1 Peter 5:5-6
  • True service requires denying self and following Christ's example.
  • Our old nature must be crucified, allowing Christ to live through us.
  • Humility before God and others is essential for effective service.

5. The Rewards and Impact of Service

5.1 Eternal Rewards

Verses: Matthew 6:19-21; Luke 12:33-34; 1 Corinthians 3:12-14
  • Service for Christ lays up treasures in heaven that cannot be destroyed.
  • Our labor in the Lord is not in vain; it has eternal significance.
  • God will reward faithful service, even a cup of cold water given in His name.

5.2 Personal Growth and Fulfillment

Verses: Acts 20:35; Philippians 4:13; John 15:5
  • It is more blessed to give than to receive, bringing joy and purpose.
  • Through Christ, we can do all things, including serving beyond our natural abilities.
  • Abiding in Him enables us to bear much fruit in service.

5.3 Impact on the Kingdom of God

Verses: Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 2:9; Romans 12:4-5
  • Our good works shine as a light, drawing others to glorify God.
  • We are a chosen generation, called to proclaim the praises of God.
  • Each member's service contributes to the growth and health of the body of Christ.