Serving Part 1

I have the ongoing opportunity to teach a course on Serving at Jersey Baptist Church (Columbus, OH). As a staff we decided to help our members gain a better understanding of how God has uniquely gifted them as well as help them find a meaningful place of service at Jersey.

Over the next few posts I am going to flesh out some thoughts and ideas on serving within the body of Christ. Some of the information is taken from the Network (Willow Creek) and SHAPE (Saddleback Church) studies.

Comments and questions are welcome.

Serving Part 1...
The goal of our Serving with Joy course is to help believers to be fruitful and fulfilled in a meaningful place of service.

In Galatians 5:13 we read:
You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to
indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.

The word serve is a command. That means serving for the believer is not an option.
For far too long there have been too many that sit on the sidelines and watch what is happening. God intends for every believer to play a part in something bigger than ourselves. The impact we can make if we are willing to step on the field will reap eternal rewards. we have been called and gifted to make a difference in this world.

The purpose for serving in the church is to do two things...
Glorify God and Edify others.

What are Spiritual Gifts. We could spend weeks on this, but in short...

Spiritual Gifts are special abilities distributed by the Holy Spirit to every believer according to God's design and grace. Spiritual Gifts are given for the common good of the body of Christ.

All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines. (1 Corinthians 12:11)

Spiritual Gifts help us answer the what question as it relates to serving.

How has God gifted you?

In my next post we will explore the Passion(s) God has given each of us.