Serving One Another In Love

SERVING ONE ANOTHER IN LOVE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Galatians 5:13

Supporting Texts: John 13:12-17, Romans 12:10, Philippians 2:3-4, 1 Peter 4:10

INTRODUCTION:

We live in a world that often encourages self-centredness, but the kingdom of God calls us to a different lifestyle—one of service. The apostle Paul, writing to the Galatians, urged them to use their liberty not for selfish reasons but to serve one another through love. True Christian service stems from a heart transformed by Christ and seeks to glorify God by building up others.

Jesus Christ is our perfect example of servant leadership. He did not come to be served, but to serve and give His life for others. When believers serve one another in love, the church becomes a place of unity, growth, and spiritual strength. This message reminds us of our call to love actively through service.

1. SERVICE IS AN EXPRESSION OF LOVE

Serving others proves that the love of Christ dwells within us.

a) Love moves us beyond words (1 John 3:18):

True love is not just verbal—it expresses itself through helpful actions.

b) Service reflects God's character (1 John 4:8):

God is love, and when we serve in love, we reflect His nature to others.

c) Serving with love edifies the church (Ephesians 4:16):

Each member contributes to the growth of the body through loving service.

d) Selfless love brings unity (Colossians 3:14):

Love binds us together in perfect harmony when we serve each other humbly.

Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan served a stranger with compassion and love, demonstrating what it means to love one’s neighbour (Luke 10:33-37).

2. SERVING IN LOVE REQUIRES HUMILITY

To serve effectively, we must lay down pride and position.

a) Jesus washed His disciples' feet (John 13:14-15):

The Master took the lowest position to teach us humility in service.

b) Esteem others better than yourself (Philippians 2:3):

Putting others first is the pathway to genuine service.

c) Resist the temptation to seek praise (Matthew 6:1):

Our acts of service should aim to glorify God, not ourselves.

d) God honours the humble (James 4:10):

When we serve in humility, God elevates us in due season.

Biblical Example: Ruth humbled herself to serve Naomi faithfully, which later led to divine favour and elevation (Ruth 1:16-17; 2:11-12).

3. WE ARE GIFTED TO SERVE ONE ANOTHER

Every believer has a gift meant to bless others.

a) Use your spiritual gifts for others (1 Peter 4:10):

Our gifts are tools for serving, not for boasting.

b) All gifts are for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7):

Service strengthens the entire body of Christ when done in love.

c) Do not neglect your calling (2 Timothy 1:6):

Stir up your gift and use it to serve the people God has placed around you.

d) Faithful service brings increase (Matthew 25:21):

God rewards those who serve diligently and faithfully.

Biblical Example: Dorcas (Tabitha) used her gift of sewing to bless widows, and God raised her back to life as a testimony of her service (Acts 9:36-40).

4. SERVING IN LOVE GLORIFIES GOD

When we serve in love, we bring honour to our heavenly Father.

a) Let your light shine through service (Matthew 5:16):

Good works glorify God and draw others to Him.

b) Love-motivated service draws people to Christ (John 13:35):

The world will know we are Christ’s disciples by our love in action.

c) Serve as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23):

Every act of service should be rendered with the mindset of serving God.

d) Service advances God’s kingdom (Romans 12:11):

When we serve passionately, we help expand God's work on earth.

Biblical Example: Paul’s entire ministry was marked by sacrificial service to God and others, bringing glory to God and salvation to many (Acts 20:19-24).

CONCLUSION:

Serving one another in love is the heartbeat of Christian community. It reflects the nature of Christ, builds unity, and releases God’s power into our midst. As we serve with humility, grace, and faithfulness, we participate in God’s work on earth and draw others to the beauty of the gospel.

Let us reject selfishness and embrace the call to serve one another with pure love. In doing so, we not only bless others but also fulfil God’s will for our lives and honour His name.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, teach me to serve others in genuine love.

2. Remove every form of selfishness from my heart.

3. Fill me with the humility of Christ to serve joyfully.

4. Help me to discover and use my spiritual gifts effectively.

5. Let my service glorify You and edify others.

6. Deliver me from the desire for recognition or praise.

7. Open my eyes to the needs around me.

8. Make me a vessel of compassion and care.

9. Let my acts of service draw souls to You.

10. Establish a culture of love and service in my church.