Theology of the Church, Mentor's Guide, MG03

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T H E O L O G Y O F T H E C H U R C H

A Theology of the Church (continued)

Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Eph. 2.10).

3. These works of service reveal God’s character to the world and lead people to give him praise (Matt. 5.16; 2 Cor. 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” (Matt. 20.25-28; Luke 22.27; Phil. 2.7). 2. The Church community serves based on the command of Christ and the apostles (Mark 10.42-45; Gal. 5.13; 1 Pet. 4.10). 3. The Church community serves, first of all, “the least of these” according to the mandates of Christ’s teaching (Matt. 18.2-5; Matt. 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 (Heb. 13.2). 3. These signs are the true fruit of repentance (Luke 3.7-14; Luke 19.8-10; James 1.27)

D. Stewardship is the foundational truth which governs the way the Church uses resources in order to do “Works of Service.”

1. Our resources (time, money, authority, health, position, etc.) belong not to ourselves but to God.