Picturing Theology, Revised Edition

242 | Picturing Theology, Revised Edition

2. The basic requirement of discipleship is a willingness to take up the cross daily and follow Jesus (Mark 8:34; Luke 9:23; Luke 14:27).

IX. A community of works A. “Works of Service” are the hallmark of Christian congregations as they do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. 1. The leadership of the Church is charged with preparing God’s people for “works of service” (Ephesians 4:12). 2. These good works are central to the new purpose and identity which is given us during the new birth. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10). 3. These works of service reveal God’s character to the world and lead people to give him praise (Matthew 5:16; 2 Corinthians 9:13). B. Servanthood characterizes the Christian’s approach to relationships, resources, and ministry. 1. The Church community serves based on the example of Christ who came “not to be served but to serve” (Matthew 20:25-28; Luke 22:27; Philippians 2:7). 2. The Church community serves based on the command of Christ and the apostles (Mark 10:42-45; Galatians 5:13; 1 Peter 4:10). 3. The Church community serves, first of all, “the least of these” according to the mandates of Christ’s teaching (Matthew 18:2-5; 25:34-46; Luke 4:18-19). C. Generosity and hospitality are the twin signs of kingdom service. 1. Generosity results in the giving of one’s self and one’s good for the sake of announcing and obeying Christ and his kingdom reign. 2. Hospitality results in treating the stranger, the foreigner, the prisoner, and the enemy as one of your very own people (Hebrews 13:2).