Lesson series ▪ 1998 Tags: Ministry; Church; Christian service; Luke 10:25-37; Romans 6:17-22; Romans 12:1-2; Romans 16:1-15, 21-23; 1 Corinthians 12:4-20, 27-28; 2 Corinthians 8:1-9; Colossians 2:6-9; 2 Peter 3:18 ContentsExperience of SalvationSurrender to God's Will Pattern of Spiritual Growth Commitment to Holiness Affiliation with a Local Church Service to Fellow Men Attitude of Volunteerism Understanding of Self Conclusion Sources Cited The Old Testament establishes the fact that those who profess to believe in God should concern themselves with serving him. The New Testament clearly follows this precedent, emphasizing that it is the church body that is to be the agent and locus of spiritual service. Unfortunately, it is all too common for Christians to shirk their responsibility to the local church, absorbing its collective resources and energies without investing in its programs. This is a spiritual tragedy! God never intended that the local church should have less than 100% of its membership involved in its ministry. An inactive membership segment is to a church much like dead weight is to a body. It contributes nothing but robs valuable nutrients. As far as the Scriptures are concerned, it is anomalous for a Christian to be perpetually inactive and uncommitted toward his/her local church. The above notwithstanding, it is important to note that
beginning to serve God is not a matter of flipping some magic switch. Just
because someone may recognize his lack of involvement in Christian service does
not mean that he/she will necessarily change. Much as a plant cannot grow
unless its environmental conditions are suitable, certain spiritual conditions
must prevail in a person’s life before he/she can serve God. It is the purpose
of this lesson series to discuss eight such conditions. Lasting, fruitful
Christian service can never become a reality apart from them. Download This Resource |
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