Many times, we have a difficult time discovering the Lord's will for our lives because we think the way the world thinks rather than the way God thinks. Dr. Stanley teaches that we are to follow the pattern of service that Christ has set before us. Learn how to live the way God wants you to live through a life of service.
Sermon Outline
We all want our life to count for something. But the world’s measures of greatness—status, influence, recognition—can quietly shape people’s thinking, even the believer’s. In today’s message, Dr. Stanley turns to Jesus’ own example to reveal a surprising pattern: The path to true greatness begins with serving others.
Key Passage: Matthew 20:20-28
Supporting Passages: John 13:12-17; 2 Corinthians 5:20-21; 2 Corinthians 8:9; Philippians 2:5-8
As believers, we are meant to be different. But sometimes our values aren’t distinguishable from everyone else’s. For example, what does achieving greatness mean to you?
► “Jesus was saying, In My kingdom there will be no big deals. What I’m looking for are men and women who are willing to serve.”
The world and Jesus define greatness very differently:
In the world, greatness is measured by authority, influence, and position.
For Christians, whoever wishes to be great must serve as Jesus does (Matt. 20:20-28).
We commonly associate concepts like Lord, Savior, and King with Jesus, but He came in service to God and man.
The pattern of servanthood in Scripture:
Jesus came as a servant.
He gave His life as a ransom for many.
There is no salvation, redemption, or forgiveness apart from the cross of Jesus Christ.
Jesus emptied Himself (Phil. 2:5-8) but never laid aside His deity. He was always God in the flesh. However, He temporarily surrendered …
His riches. He became poor so that we might have spiritual wealth (8:9).
His heavenly glory. He clothed majesty in flesh.
His independent authority. Though equal with God, He chose to do only what the Father directed.
► “Jesus said, ‘Follow Me. Not to greatness in the eyes of the world, but to greatness in My eyes.’”
Jesus gave us an example to follow:
He washed His disciples’ feet—not to establish an ordinance but to demonstrate a spirit of humble love (John 13:12-17).
The same hands that washed dusty feet were also nailed to a cross to wash sin from human hearts.
We serve like Christ when we do something for others, wanting nothing in return.
Service requires humility, and Jesus promises it will bring blessing (v. 17).
After Watching
Dr. Stanley points out that Jesus borrowed everything during His time on earth. He gave up all He had so that we could become truly rich. And our wealth is the kind nothing can touch—not taxes, sickness, loss, or even death. How does that change the way you think about what you have and what you’re holding on to?
This week, look for one quiet opportunity to serve someone without being asked and without being noticed. Afterwards, consider what it felt like to give something away freely.
