The Pattern of Service
(Luke 22:24-27)
Sermon Notes
Background
Jesus is talking to the disciples at the dinner table on the eve of His death. Jesus says that one of those at the table is going to betray Him. The disciples start questioning who will be the one to betray. Then they break out into an argument over which one of them is going to be the greatest. The pattern they saw in the world said that those who were greatest looked and behaved a certain way.
The Pattern of the World – Status Seekers
In verse 25a the kings of the Gentiles dominated them. They lorded their power and position over the people.
God’s Pattern – Servant Seekers
In verse 26, we are told to be the younger. The younger was often given the most menial, grunt work (i.e. David, the youngest, tending the sheep).
“If you want to be a leader, you’ve got to first be a servant.” – Pastor Ferne Sapp
The Pattern of the World – Self Seekers
In verse 25b, those who have authority are called ‘Benefactors.’ However, they were definitely not a benefit to the people. They were serving so that they could get ahead themselves.
Galatians 5:19 lists how self-seekers look:
- Selfish
- Easily hurt
- Easily angered
- Overly Critical
- Unforgiving
- Jealous
- Envious
- Don’t compliment others
- Feel sorry for themselves
- Unfulfilled
God’s Pattern – Spirit Seeker
We should seek the fruit of the Spirit and look to please only God.
Galatians 5:22 lists the characteristics we should portray:
- Love
- Joy
- Peace
- Patience
- Kindness
- Goodness
- Faith
- Gentleness
- Self-Control
The Pattern of the World – Star Seekers
In Luke 22:27, those who were considered great were seated at the table and served.
God’s Pattern – Spirit Pleasers
We should not follow the traditions of the world, but rather look for God’s approval (Spirit Accolades).
“Our Pattern is to seek to please Him and serve others.” – Pastor Ferne Sapp
It might seem like you are a giving up a lot, but if you trust God, you aren’t giving up anything, you are actually gaining everything.
