[489 words]
People often wonder what the church can do for them. It seems that everyone wants to be part of a large congregation that has immaculate facilities, lots of activities for the young and old, children of all ages, and a large contribution. When someone is looking for a congregation to attend, these may be some of the criteria used to find the “right church.” Most do not look for a congregation where they are needed to serve. Rather, folks frequently look for a congregation where they can be served. This self-serving attitude seems to be at odds with the spirit of Christianity and the example of Christ, Himself.
Consider these words describing the ministry of Christ: “But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:26-28). This passage shows that Jesus, the founder of Christianity, did not come to be served. He came to serve.
Christianity is built upon this principle of service and sacrifice. Paul wrote, “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” (Philippians 2:5-8). Notice that Jesus took upon himself the “form of a servant.” As a servant, Jesus gave Himself for the sins of the world (1 John 2:2). There could be no greater example of sacrifice than the one made by Christ. Yet, those seeking to be followers of Christ today, often do not seem to have this same selfless, sacrificial spirit. The question at the forefront seems to be, “What can the church do for me?” rather than asking, “What can I do for the church?”
I cannot imagine Jesus, Paul, or Peter saying, “I am placing membership with congregation B because they have nicer facilities and greater financial resources than congregation A.” I cannot envision Christ or His apostles saying, “I am hoping to find a church that meets my needs.” I do not believe the Lord or any of His apostles would say, “I am choosing to attend the services of this congregation because they have more social gatherings.” I am persuaded that Jesus, Paul, and Peter were too busy serving to think about being served. I think they were too busy spreading the gospel and trying to save others to think about themselves. They were servants…we should be as well.
Mark Lindley
Chapman church of Christ
Ripley, MS