1Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. 4 Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, 5 for each one should carry their own load. 6 Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor. 7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. (Galatians 6:1 – 10, New International Version)
Theme: The Local Church
Context:
Today we conclude our review of Service. Yesterday, we looked at the internal dimension of this discipline for the local church. Today we will consider the external dimension. There are some local churches that deemphasize this dimension of service. Some, out of fear of participating in what they consider a social gospel, shy away from social involvement. That perspective appears inconsistent with the overall biblical narrative and so we consider service to the community (not just preaching) to be an important discipline.
Bible Passage:
Today’s passage is Galatians 6:10 (presented above). This is the same passage as yesterday but now we focus on doing good ‘to all people’.
Question:
What are some of the successful examples of service to the community that you have experienced in a local church?
March 30, 2022 at 6:04 am
Our Pastor tells us of letters, texts, or phone calls of gratitude received from individuals or families that our church have given money to, prayed for, or visited at the hospital.
Some of these individuals talk of receiving the money at just the right time, whether to pay the utility bill, or to buy groceries. Others are grateful knowing that they or loved one(s) are being prayed for.
At Thanksgiving time, each family in attendance receives a gift card to purchase a turkey (or whatever) to help pay for their Thanksgiving dinner.
Money and resources are sent to missionaries. (Pastor prays for, and ask that we pray for missionaries).
Not local, but 225 families get 2 meals a day somewhere in Haiti. This has been going on for years even though that wasn’t the initial plan. However, Pastor thinks as long as the church can afford it, it should be continued, and we agree.
Groceries are sometimes delivered to individuals or families in need.
There are many times we are “updated” on how money is spent, and the blessing it is.
It’s not always the service of money, prayers, and visits. Some of our highest attendance Sundays are when a gospel group performs at the church. Anyone is invited. The morning of songs is a blessing to the soul.
March 30, 2022 at 8:02 am
Over the years I have seen a few but the ones that stay with me (and likely with those served and those in organizations that serve) are the long lasting partnership. Where the volunteers might change over time but the church equipping and connecting them to the need is constant. Relationships are built and it becomes a true bearing of each other’s load.
March 30, 2022 at 8:05 am
Some of the successful examples of service through local churches I’ve been a part of in Japan and other countries I’ve lived:
Serving the children in the community through Vacation Bible Study.
Serving and having fellowship with church family on many events at church such as Thanksgiving, Christmas time, Easter, anniversary of church, and many other events.
Inviting non believers to church or attending bible study, fellowship and prayer meeting is a kind of service that could really help share the gospel.
Joining in cleaning the church, or decorating the church during Christmas or other important events of the year.
Being a greeter/ usher is a good example of service that can show the face of the church and encourage people to come again to church especially for first timers at church.
Helping or teaching at Sunday School especially with children at church.
Help with preparing or cooking food for church events or when some members are ill.
Being selfless and always looking out for the good of everyone is a service that is glorifying to God. For leaders serving at church, transparency and sincerity is a key to having harmony and unity at church. This is always important to remember when serving at church.