Ministry To Jesus Through Others

MINISTRY TO JESUS THROUGH OTHERS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 25:34-40

"And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." - Matthew 25:40

Supporting Texts: Hebrews 13:2, James 2:15–17, Galatians 6:10, Proverbs 19:17, Isaiah 58:6–11

INTRODUCTION:

Jesus taught that love for Him is best expressed in how we treat others—especially the needy and vulnerable. In Matthew 25, He paints a vivid picture of the final judgment, where acts of compassion toward “the least” are recognised as acts of service directly to Him. The passage reveals that our practical love for others has eternal significance.

In a world obsessed with platforms, pulpits, and personal gain, Christ reminds us that feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick, and caring for the imprisoned are holy and heaven-accounted ministries. To neglect these acts is to neglect Him.

This message calls us back to the basics of Christian living—serving Jesus by serving others.

1. MINISTRY TO OTHERS IS MINISTRY TO JESUS

a) Jesus identifies with the needy.

The Lord sees Himself in the weak, hungry, sick, and imprisoned (v. 40).

b) Service must go beyond church walls.

True ministry happens in the streets, homes, and hospitals—not only the altar.

c) Love is not just emotional—it is practical.

Faith without works is dead (James 2:17).

d) Every act of kindness is a seed in God’s record.

God takes note of the smallest gestures of compassion (Matthew 10:42).

Biblical Example: Dorcas (Acts 9:36–39) was remembered for her acts of kindness and charity.

2. COMPASSION IS THE CHARACTER OF GOD

a) God is merciful and expects His children to mirror Him.

Our Father is touched by suffering (Exodus 3:7).

b) Christianity is not just creeds—it is compassion in action.

Love must be visible in daily decisions and interactions.

c) Indifference to human suffering is anti-Christ.

To ignore the hurting is to reject the heart of Jesus.

d) The measure of our faith is tested in how we treat others.

Righteousness is visible in relationships, not just rituals.

Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–37) demonstrated true neighbourly love.

3. THERE IS REWARD FOR RIGHTEOUS SERVICE

a) Eternal honour awaits those who serve with love.

Jesus said, “Come, inherit the kingdom” (v. 34).

b) Service is never in vain when done unto the Lord.

Even unseen acts are rewarded (1 Corinthians 15:58).

c) God keeps accurate records of our compassion.

What men forget, heaven remembers.

d) Our inheritance in eternity is tied to our actions now.

Salvation is by grace, but eternal reward considers faithful service.

Biblical Example: Cornelius (Acts 10:1–4) had his almsgiving remembered by God.

4. OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE ARE ALL AROUND US

a) The hungry, homeless, sick, and broken are near.

Look not only at crowds, but individuals.

b) We are stewards of God’s blessings.

What we have is to bless others (1 Peter 4:10).

c) Time, presence, and encouragement are acts of service.

Not all giving is monetary—care is also currency.

d) Service is not seasonal—it is a lifestyle.

Let kindness be your daily habit.

Biblical Example: Lydia opened her home to Paul and the believers (Acts 16:14–15).

5. FAILING TO SERVE OTHERS IS FAILING TO SERVE CHRIST

a) Jesus rebuked those who ignored the needy (vv. 42–45).

Neglect is a form of disobedience.

b) Ignorance is not an excuse.

They asked, “When did we see you?”—yet they were judged.

c) God holds us accountable for missed opportunities.

Every day is a test of obedience and love.

d) Service is not optional—it is integral to Christian life.

To serve is to love; to love is to live like Christ.

Biblical Example: The rich man ignored Lazarus and suffered the consequences (Luke 16:19–31).

CONCLUSION:

Christianity is most authentic when lived out through compassionate service. Jesus sees our care for others as service to Himself. The true test of our faith is not just in our prayers or preaching but in our kindness, hospitality, and generosity.

Let us not miss the daily opportunities to minister to Jesus by loving and serving the people around us. Every meal shared, every visit made, every garment given is a declaration of Christ’s love to a hurting world.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, give me a heart of compassion like Yours.

2. Help me to see You in the lives of the needy around me.

3. Let me never miss opportunities to do good.

4. Father, let my service bring glory to You and healing to others.

5. Empower me to serve with joy, wisdom, and selflessness.