Serving Others As A Path To Growth

SERVING OTHERS AS A PATH TO GROWTH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 20:26–28

Supporting Texts: John 13:12–17, Philippians 2:5–9, Galatians 5:13, Romans 12:11, 1 Peter 4:10

INTRODUCTION:

In the world today, greatness is often defined by status, position, and the number of people who serve us. But in the Kingdom of God, the path to true greatness is radically different. Jesus teaches us that the greatest among us must become servants. In His own life, He exemplified servant leadership by choosing to serve rather than be served, even though He was the King of kings.

The call to serve others is not a lesser calling—it is a divine invitation to become more like Christ. When we serve with love, humility, and compassion, we not only help others grow but we ourselves are transformed and elevated in the process.

This message calls us to embrace the heart of a servant as a key to spiritual growth, maturity, and divine promotion. True greatness is not about climbing over others, but lifting others up as we walk with Christ.

1. SERVICE IS THE PATH TO TRUE GREATNESS

a) Jesus redefined greatness through service (Matthew 20:26-28):

Jesus clearly stated that in the Kingdom, the measure of greatness is not in how many people serve you, but in how many you are willing to serve.

b) God honours those who humble themselves (James 4:10):

When we lay aside pride and position to serve, God lifts us up in due time.

c) Service demonstrates spiritual maturity (Hebrews 6:10):

God recognises and rewards every act of service, done in love, as a sign of spiritual growth and responsibility.

d) A serving heart reflects Christ’s character (Philippians 2:5-7):

Jesus, though God, made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant. If He could serve, so should we.

Biblical Example: Jesus washing the feet of His disciples (John 13:12–17) teaches that no task is too low when done with a loving heart.

2. SERVICE BUILDS UNITY IN THE BODY OF CHRIST

a) Every believer has a role to play (1 Corinthians 12:4-7):

We are all uniquely gifted to serve and build one another up in love.

b) Serving one another promotes mutual care (Galatians 5:13):

Love expressed through service keeps selfishness and pride in check.

c) Unity is preserved when we value each other (Ephesians 4:2-3):

Serving with humility helps us maintain the bond of peace.

d) When we serve together, we grow together (Romans 12:4-5):

As each part of the body functions, the whole body matures in unity and purpose.

Biblical Example: The early church served one another with joy, resulting in powerful unity and growth (Acts 2:44–47).

3. SERVICE POSITIONS YOU FOR DIVINE PROMOTION

a) God promotes those who are faithful in service (Matthew 25:21):

Faithful service, even in small tasks, opens the door to greater responsibilities.

b) Promotion comes from the Lord, not man (Psalm 75:6-7):

When you serve with the right heart, God notices—even when people don’t.

c) Serving prepares you for leadership (1 Timothy 3:13):

Those who serve well gain confidence and spiritual depth, ready to lead.

d) Service is a training ground for destiny (Luke 16:10):

Greatness is often born in the quiet places of hidden service.

Biblical Example: Joseph served faithfully in Potiphar’s house and prison before he was promoted to prime minister (Genesis 39:2–4, 41:40–44).

4. SERVICE IS AN ACT OF WORSHIP TO GOD

a) God sees service as an offering (Hebrews 13:16):

Every time we help others, we are giving something pleasing to God.

b) Serving expresses love for God and people (Mark 12:30-31):

Love finds expression in action, and serving is the clearest demonstration of love.

c) When you serve others, you are serving Christ (Matthew 25:40):

Jesus said whatever we do for others, especially the least, we do for Him.

d) Service opens the heavens over your life (Isaiah 58:10-11):

When you pour into others, God ensures you are always replenished.

Biblical Example: Dorcas (Tabitha) was known for her acts of service and was even raised from the dead because of her impact (Acts 9:36–41).

CONCLUSION:

God never designed service to be a burden but a blessing. As we serve others with a pure heart, we grow in Christlikeness, in favour with God and man, and in influence. Jesus, the greatest of all, took the lowest place to show us the way. When we follow His example, we rise above selfishness, experience spiritual transformation, and become vessels of divine impact.

Let us reject the world’s model of greatness and embrace God's model—through service, sacrifice, and humility. Serving others is not just the right thing to do—it is the path to greatness, joy, and spiritual growth.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, give me the heart of a servant like Jesus.

2. Help me to see greatness through the lens of service.