Service
SUMMARY
This sermon challenges believers to move from being passive spectators of faith to active participants and servants in God's kingdom. Using the story of Jesus washing the disciples' feet in John 13, Pastor Raigan illustrates how Jesus modeled humble service and explicitly called his followers to do likewise. The message emphasizes that God has uniquely gifted each person with specific strengths, passions, and purposes to serve others and make a meaningful impact in the world.
Raigan introduces the S.T.O.R.Y. framework for discovering one's unique calling to service: Strengths (what you do well), Topics (what you're passionate about), Outward Response (how you're motivated to act), and Yes (the blessing that comes from serving). The sermon concludes with a powerful challenge, adapted from Theodore Roosevelt's speech, calling the church to step into the arena of service rather than remaining on the sidelines as critics or passive observers.
INTRO PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we come before you today with open hearts and minds, ready to receive what you have for us in this time together. We ask that you speak to each of us individually and as a group, showing us how you have uniquely designed us to serve in your kingdom. Help us to be honest about our gifts, passionate about your purposes, and willing to step out of our comfort zones. Open our eyes to see the needs around us and give us courage to move from being spectators to active participants in your work. We pray that our discussion today would draw us closer to you and to one another. In Jesus' name, Amen.
ICE BREAKER
Share about a time when you had to step out of your comfort zone to try something new. How did it feel, and what was the outcome?
KEY VERSES
John 13:14-15
Ephesians 2:10
John 5:19
John 13:17
QUESTIONS
What stood out to you most about Jesus' act of washing the disciples' feet? Why do you think this made such an impact on them?
Pastor Raigan mentioned that Jesus wanted his followers to be distinctively different from the rest of the world through acts of service. What are some ways Christians can stand out through humble service today?
Using the S.T.O.R.Y. framework, what would you identify as some of your key strengths or things that come naturally to you?
What topics, people groups, or causes make your 'pulse race' with passion? How might God be calling you to serve in these areas?
The sermon suggests we were 'created to contribute far more than we consume.' How does this challenge our culture's emphasis on personal comfort and accumulation?
What fears or obstacles typically keep people (including yourself) on the sidelines rather than stepping into service?
How can we help each other move from being 'spectators' to 'servants' in our daily lives and in our church community?
LIFE APPLICATION
Visit our new website — www.gallowayumc.org — and explore all that God is doing through our community of faith. At the top of the homepage, you’ll find a button inviting you to join a Serve Team and make an IMPACT.
Take time to discern the giftedness of your unique S.T.O.R.Y. and how God might want to use you in service and mission. Remember — we are never more like Christ than when we serve.
Step out in faith, use your gifts, and join a Serve Team today as God uses you to impact others for the Kingdom!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Jesus modeled humble service by washing the disciples' feet and explicitly called his followers to do the same for others
God has uniquely gifted each person with specific strengths, passions, and purposes for serving in His kingdom
We were created to contribute more than we consume, and serving others is how we find our 'sweet spot' of blessing and joy Moving from spectator to servant requires courage to step into the arena despite the risk of failure or criticism
True greatness in God's kingdom comes through humble service, not through seeking positions of power or recognition
ENDING PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank you for the powerful example you set for us in washing the disciples' feet. Help us to embrace the truth that we are called to be servants, not spectators. Give us wisdom to understand our unique gifts and passions, and courage to step out in faith to serve others. When we face fear or discouragement, remind us that You are with us and that there is great blessing in following your example. Transform our hearts to find joy in serving rather than being served. May our lives be a reflection of your love and humility as we seek to make a difference in our world. Guide us as we take practical steps this week to move from the sidelines into active service. In your precious name we pray, Amen.
