No. 242: Freedom to Serve

The Service of God’s Servants

No. 242: Freedom to Serve

Galatians 5:13

"For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another."

Starting Prayer

Dear Lord, grant me wisdom and understanding as I reflect on the theme of service today. Help me to grasp the significance of serving others in love. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Background

In Galatians 5, Paul addresses the concept of Christian freedom. He emphasizes that believers have been set free from the bondage of sin by Christ's sacrifice. The selected verse highlights that this freedom is not for self-indulgence but for serving one another in love. Paul urges the Galatians to use their freedom to actively serve others, reflecting the love and grace they have received from God.

Be Encouraged

Imagine a community where every member is motivated by love to serve one another, regardless of status or position. In such a community, there is harmony, support, and mutual care. As believers, we are called to live out this vision by utilizing our freedom in Christ to serve others selflessly. Whether it's through acts of kindness, lending a helping hand, or sharing the gospel, every opportunity to serve is an expression of love and gratitude for the freedom we have in Christ.

Consider the example of a volunteer at a local homeless shelter who dedicates their time to feed and care for those in need. Their actions demonstrate the transformative power of Christ's love and the freedom found in serving others. Similarly, when we serve with love and compassion, we reflect the character of Christ and contribute to the building of His kingdom.

Additional Verses

- 1 Peter 2:16: "Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God."

- Mark 10:45: "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

Invitation

I invite you to obey the gospel of Jesus Christ today and embrace the freedom found in serving others. You can obey the gospel through faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance from sin (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of all past sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38). Let us use our freedom not for selfish desires but to love and serve one another, following the example of Jesus Christ. Join us in worship and fellowship at a local church of Christ, where you can experience the joy of serving alongside others.

Concluding Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for the freedom we have in Christ and the opportunity to serve others in love. Help me to use my freedom wisely and to serve with a humble heart. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

May the Lord bless your day.

Theodore J. Quist

Evangelist

Church of Christ

Abokobi - Accra

Ghana

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