Jesus The Servant King Series

JESUS THE SERVANT KING

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Mark 10:45

Key Verse:

“For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45

Supporting Texts: Philippians 2:5-11; John 13:3-15; Matthew 20:26-28; Isaiah 53:4-7; Luke 22:27

INTRODUCTION:

In a world where many chase positions, titles, prestige, and recognition, Jesus stands as the perfect example of true greatness through servanthood. He did not come to display earthly dominance or to seek applause but to reveal the kingdom principle that greatness flows from humility and selfless service. His life challenges every believer to rethink the meaning of leadership and honour.

Jesus’ entire earthly ministry was marked by compassionate service. He touched the lepers, fed the hungry, served the broken-hearted, washed the feet of His disciples, and ultimately gave His life as a ransom for many. His humility did not diminish His authority; instead, it revealed the depth of His love and the strength of His divine character.

In our generation, there is a strong temptation to prioritise self-promotion over service. But the example of Jesus calls us back to a kingdom lifestyle where serving is greater than being served. As we study Jesus the Servant King, we learn that humility brings promotion, service unlocks greatness, and sacrificial love transforms lives.

1. JESUS DEMONSTRATED HUMILITY AS THE PATHWAY TO GREATNESS

Jesus showed us that greatness begins with a heart that submits to God and walks in humility. His life is the perfect model for all who desire elevation in the Kingdom.

a) Humility in His Incarnation — (Philippians 2:6-7). Jesus willingly left His heavenly glory and took on human flesh, proving that the highest form of greatness is the ability to stoop low in obedience to God.

b) Humility in His Character — (Matthew 11:29). He described Himself as meek and lowly in heart, showing that humility is not weakness but strength clothed in gentleness and grace.

c) Humility in Service — (John 13:3–5). By washing the feet of His disciples, Jesus displayed a servant’s heart, teaching that no leader is too great to serve and no task is beneath a true follower of Christ.

d) Humility in Obedience — (Philippians 2:8). He obeyed the Father to the point of death on the cross, proving that submission to God’s will is the foundation of true greatness.

Biblical Example: David—Though anointed king, he continued to serve Saul faithfully and tended the flock of his father, showing that a humble heart attracts divine promotion (1 Samuel 16:11–23).

2. JESUS REVEALED GREATNESS THROUGH SACRIFICIAL SERVICE

Jesus did not only serve, He served sacrificially. His steps reveal that greatness demands laying down one’s comfort for the benefit of others.

a) His Service Was Driven by Love — (John 15:13). Jesus demonstrated the highest form of love by laying down His life, revealing that selfless love is the engine of true service.

b) His Service Met Human Needs — (Matthew 14:19-20). He fed the multitudes, healed the sick, and ministered to the broken, teaching that service must be practical and compassionate.

c) His Service Brought Deliverance — (Luke 4:18-19). His ministry restored hope, healed wounds, and liberated the oppressed, proving that service changes destinies.

d) His Service Redefined Leadership — (Matthew 20:26-28). Jesus declared that greatness is measured by one’s willingness to serve, turning worldly leadership upside down.

Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan—He sacrificed time, resources, and energy to rescue a wounded man, illustrating that service is meaningful when it costs something (Luke 10:33-35).

3. JESUS EXEMPLIFIED LEADERSHIP THROUGH SERVANTHOOD

Jesus taught that leadership in God’s kingdom is rooted in service, compassion, and responsibility rather than domination or pride.

a) Servant Leadership Starts with Compassion — (Matthew 9:36). Jesus was moved with compassion for the multitudes, showing that true leaders care deeply for those they lead.

b) Servant Leadership Places Others First — (Philippians 2:3-4). Jesus valued the needs of people above personal comfort, showing leaders that selflessness is the heart of effective leadership.

c) Servant Leadership Empowers Others — (Luke 9:1-2). He equipped His disciples with power and authority, proving that leaders raise other leaders and not slaves.

d) Servant Leadership Is Modelled by Example — (John 13:15). Jesus lived what He taught, showing that leaders must first demonstrate the behaviour they want others to follow.

Biblical Example: Moses—He served Israel tirelessly, interceded for them, and led them patiently, revealing the heart of a servant-leader (Exodus 32:30-32).

4. JESUS SHOWED THAT SERVING GOD BRINGS DIVINE EXALTATION

God honours those who serve with sincerity and humility. Jesus’ exaltation reveals the divine principle that service precedes promotion.

a) Jesus Was Exalted Above All — (Philippians 2:9). God lifted Him and gave Him a name above every name, showing that humility attracts divine honour.