A Compelling Testimony: Maintaining a Disciplined Walk, Christlike Character, and Godly Relationships as God's Servant

Ses s i on 5: Cu l t i vat i ng Our Charac ter : The Outward Di sc i p l i nes 221

(2) Authentic proof of salvation is evidenced by our willingness to serve the body, 1 John 3.16-18 – By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. [17] But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? [18] Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.

6. Service in the body is to be mutual and reciprocal; the “one anothers” of Scripture challenge our service to be mutual in all cases.

a. All members serve according to their gifts and opportunity, Rom. 12.4-6 – For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, [5] so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. [6] Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith. b. Varieties of gifts are given by the Spirit to the members of the body to be exercised for the common good of all, 1 Cor. 12.4-7 – Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; [5] and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; [6] and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. [7] To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.

D. Practical concerns

1. Recognize the difference between service to be seen by others, and service as a drink offering to God on behalf of others.