Pentecost 101: The Blessing and Biblical
Principles of Serving (Lesson 3) | Pastor Nathan Peterson
Sunday, May 24, 2026 | 10:30 AM
Big Idea: To follow Jesus is to take the posture of a servant. Serving others is both the evidence of genuine faith and the pathway to eternal reward.
Scripture References
Primary Text:
* John 13
Other References:
* Matthew 25:31–46
* Matthew 5:16
* Ephesians 2:8–10
Overview
Throughout Scripture, servanthood is presented as a defining mark of God’s people. From Joshua serving Moses to Timothy serving Paul, God shapes leaders and disciples through humble service. Jesus Himself embodied this when He washed the disciples’ feet, redefining true authority as deliberate, others-focused love.
Our good works do not earn salvation, yet they reveal our relationship with Christ and bring glory to God. Ultimately, heaven is promised to those who serve Christ by serving “the least of these,” while refusing to serve exposes allegiance to another master. Every believer, regardless of age or stage of life, is called to discover and fulfill God’s purpose through active service.
Main Points
- Servanthood is woven throughout the Bible.
* Biblical examples include Joshua serving Moses, Samuel serving Eli, Elisha serving Elijah, and Timothy serving Paul.
* The speaker shared a personal testimony of learning ministry by serving his pastor on a construction site.
* Mentorship and spiritual growth naturally develop when we willingly place ourselves under God’s stewardship.
- Jesus redefined authority through service.
* In John 13, Jesus laid aside His outer garment, took a towel, and washed His disciples’ feet.
* His question, “Do you understand what I have done to you?” challenges every disciple to follow His example.
* Jesus taught that “a servant is not greater than his master,” reminding us that no follower is above humble service.
- Serving others is serving Christ—and it carries eternal significance.
* In Matthew 25, Jesus identifies Himself with the hungry, thirsty, stranger, sick, and imprisoned.
* Meeting the needs of others is presented as serving Christ Himself.
* Scripture reminds us that every person serves a master; neutrality is not an option.
- Good works flow from saving grace—they never replace it.
* Ephesians 2 teaches that salvation is God’s gift, received by grace through faith, not by works.
* However, believers are created in Christ for the good works God prepared in advance for them.
* Serving requires sacrifice, but it also leads to the abundant life Jesus promised.
Application
The invitation is simple: step into God’s purpose by actively serving the people around you. Let your life demonstrate that Jesus is Lord.
Head
Recognize that every believer has been created and saved for good works that God prepared in advance.
Heart
Develop humility and compassion, remembering that when you minister to human needs, you minister to Christ Himself.
Hands
* Identify one tangible need this week—whether hunger, loneliness, or practical assistance—and meet it in Jesus’ name.
* Volunteer in a church or community ministry where your gifts can bless others.
* Regularly evaluate your schedule and resources to ensure there is room to serve faithfully.
Reflection Questions
- Which biblical example of servanthood challenges you the most, and why?
- How does Jesus washing His disciples’ feet reshape your understanding of leadership?
- In what everyday situations might Jesus be saying, “You did it to Me”?
- What barriers—time, fear, or comfort—prevent you from serving more faithfully?
- How can you use your gifts and passions to serve in a practical ministry opportunity this month?
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Thank you for listening to the Landmark Pentecostal Church Podcast. If this message encouraged you, be sure to follow the podcast, share this episode with a friend, and join us in person for worship at Landmark Church in Davenport, Iowa.
