93624.1 Lesson 1. Call to Give and Serve

Posted byJonathan Kobayashi

I. UNDERSTANDING THE CALL

The call to give and serve is foundational to authentic discipleship and mirrors the very heart of Jesus Christ. Disciples of Christ are called not only to believe but to actively demonstrate their faith through generous giving and humble service, reflecting God’s unconditional love to the world around them.

  1. Sacrificial Giving: True generosity goes beyond mere charity—it is sacrificial. It means intentionally choosing to forego personal comfort to meet the needs of others, emulating Jesus who gave Himself entirely for us (2 Corinthians 8:9).
  2. Cheerful Giving: Giving cheerfully involves a heart attitude of joy and gratitude, recognizing that all we have is from God and gladly sharing our resources for His purposes (2 Corinthians 9:7).
  3. Investment Mindset: Viewing giving as investing in the Kingdom of God encourages disciples to sow generously into God’s work, expecting spiritual fruit and eternal rewards rather than immediate personal returns (Matthew 6:19-21).
  4. Humble Service: Serving humbly means prioritizing others above ourselves, willingly performing even menial tasks without seeking recognition or reward. It is a practical demonstration of Christ’s humility (Philippians 2:3-8).

II. BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS

  1. Christ’s Servanthood: Jesus exemplified ultimate servanthood, notably by washing His disciples’ feet—an act reserved for the lowest servants—to teach them humility and service (John 13:3-17).
  2. Radical Generosity in the Early Church: The believers of the early church shared everything they had, holding their possessions lightly and meeting the needs of the community generously and joyfully (Acts 4:32-35).
  3. Stewardship Principles: Believers are stewards of God’s blessings. Faithful stewardship means using everything we have—time, resources, gifts—for the Kingdom, reflecting the Master’s heart and values (Matthew 25:14-30).

III. PRACTICAL WAYS TO GIVE AND SERVE

  1. Financial Stewardship: Intentionally budget resources for generosity, setting aside portions regularly to support local ministries, missions, and individuals in need (Proverbs 3:9-10).
  2. Investing Time: Prioritize intentional service opportunities, volunteering regularly within community projects, local churches, or individual acts of compassion, investing relationally and spiritually in others (Ephesians 5:15-16).
  3. Leveraging Talents and Gifts: Identify and actively utilize your unique talents and spiritual gifts—teaching, hospitality, craftsmanship, administration—to meet practical needs and enhance the ministry efforts of your community (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).

IV. CULTIVATING A GIVING AND SERVING CULTURE

  1. Leadership by Example: Leaders should consistently model a lifestyle of radical generosity and genuine service, demonstrating the attitudes and behaviors expected of others (1 Corinthians 11:1).
  2. Regular Teaching and Testimony: Incorporate regular teaching on generosity and service in disciple-making meetings, using powerful testimonies and practical examples to inspire action (Hebrews 13:16).
  3. Community Accountability: Foster an environment where disciples encourage and gently hold each other accountable in their commitments to give generously and serve sacrificially (Hebrews 10:24-25).

V. OVERCOMING BARRIERS TO GIVING AND SERVING

  1. Overcoming Fear and Scarcity Mindset: Teach biblical truths that God provides abundantly for those who trust Him, combating fear and encouraging bold, faith-filled generosity (Philippians 4:19).
  2. Challenging Consumerism: Regularly address the cultural temptation toward consumerism and self-centeredness, calling disciples to choose a Christ-like lifestyle of simplicity, generosity, and purposeful living (Luke 12:15; 1 Timothy 6:6-10).
  3. Developing Consistency: Encourage disciples to build sustainable giving and serving habits by starting small, growing steadily, and celebrating progress and faithfulness (Galatians 6:9).

VI. CASE EXAMPLE

In a South American community, a group of believers was challenged by Matthew 5:16 and the need to reach the lost in their region. In response to the Great Commission, a Brazilian pastor cast the vision to travel by boat on the Amazon River to reach tribal villages with the Gospel message. However, this pastor knew that the Gospel would not be readily received unless the people were first known and loved. The group of believers began collecting medical supplies, food, clothing, and other essential items that would be of great use to the tribal people. Also, the team sought Christian doctors and nurses and invited them to participate in the outreach. Filling the boat with supplies, the team of believers set off for two weeks to distribute the aid, pray for the sick, offer practical medical services, and serve the villages. The tribes were grateful but did not immediately embrace Christ. However, after continued love, service, and multiple visits to the tribes, a disciple-making movement is now taking place. Of course, each visit requires considerable preparation, financial resources, and time – all of which are made possible by the generosity of these believers in Brazil.

VII. CONCLUSION

A deep commitment to give and serve transforms hearts, families, and communities. Generosity and humble service are powerful testimonies of Christ’s love, breaking down barriers and opening hearts to the Gospel. Disciples who live generously and serve willingly are instrumental in fueling vibrant, transformative disciple-making movements that glorify God and draw countless others to Him (1 Peter 4:10-11; Matthew 20:28).