Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church · Sermon study sheet

Deacons: Servants of God

Bryan Schneider · October 19, 2024

Matthew 20:20-28

sharonrpc.org/sermons/deacons-servants-of-god

Summary

Jesus overturns worldly ideas of greatness: authority in his kingdom is not used to lord over others, and the one who would be great must become a servant.
Christ is the model and source of Christian service because the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many.
Every Christian is called to serve, while the church also recognizes particular men for the office of deacon who already display humble, compassionate service.
Deacons lift burdens instead of adding heavy yokes, step toward need rather than away from it, and pay attention to children, the marginalized, and those with little influence.
Faithful service is costly, often hidden, and sometimes thankless, so it must arise from love for Christ rather than a desire for power, praise, or status.
Believers serve because Jesus first served them in their helplessness, and service in turn strengthens faith by repeatedly bringing the servant back to the gospel.

When I receive responsibility, do I use it to serve or to lord over other people?
Where is Christ calling me to give up time, comfort, pride, or money for another person's good?
Who in the congregation is already serving faithfully without seeking recognition?
Do I tend to lift the burdens of weary people or add expectations I am unwilling to help carry?
Who among the children, needy, marginalized, or overlooked needs my attention and care?
If I desire church office, is that desire rooted in love for Jesus and his people or in influence and status?
How does remembering Christ's service to me renew strength when service is difficult or thankless?

Deacon: A servant; the New Testament uses the word broadly for Christian service and more narrowly for a recognized church office devoted especially to mercy ministry.
Servant leadership: Using responsibility and authority to seek others' good after Christ's pattern rather than to control, impress, or burden them.
Ransom: The price Christ gave in laying down his own life to redeem many, forming both the foundation and the model of Christian service.
Mercy ministry: The church's practical care for people bearing material, physical, relational, or other heavy needs.
Humility: A truthful lowliness that gives up pride and status in order to serve, following the King who humbled himself for his people.
Compassion: Love moved by another person's distress that steps into need with concrete care rather than turning away.