Sermon Notes: To Serve or not to Serve: That is NOT the Question!

Pr. Jeff Kern

1. Main Scripture

• Joshua 24:15 (NKJV):

“And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

2. Sermon Overview

• Theme:

God has created, called, and prepared us to serve Him wholeheartedly, emphasizing the importance of personal commitment and active engagement in service.

• Key Points:

• Created to Serve: Every soul is endowed with the ability to serve God. However, Satan seeks to make service burdensome by sowing confusion and distractions. (Selected Messages, Vol. 1, p. 38)

• Called to Serve: God’s work thrives when both men and women are called and empowered to fulfill their roles. Angels could intervene directly, but God entrusts humans with the privilege of working for their fellow beings. (Evangelism, p. 469; The Acts of the Apostles, p. 109)

• Prepared to Serve: Faithful service requires preparation, dedication, and the willingness to prioritize God’s work, aligning with the principle of the Pareto Law (20/80)—a small, committed portion accomplishes the majority of meaningful work.

3. Key Takeaways

• Service to God is not just an obligation but a divine privilege inherent in our creation.

• Choosing to serve the Lord is a deliberate, personal decision that must reflect in our households and communities.

• God’s design for service incorporates human agency and partnership, emphasizing teamwork and individual responsibility.

Reflection Questions for Deeper Engagement

Our Message:

1. What does it mean to “choose this day whom you will serve”? How does this choice influence your life priorities?

2. How can the belief that we are “created to serve” shape our view of work and responsibilities in God’s kingdom?

Our Conduct:

1. In what ways can Satan’s tactics make service to God seem burdensome? How can we guard against these distractions?

2. How does combining the talents of men and women, as noted in Evangelism, enhance the effectiveness of ministry and service?

Practical Application:

1. The Pareto Law suggests that a committed minority accomplishes the majority of meaningful work. How can you ensure you are part of the “20%” actively contributing to God’s mission?

2. Consider the Ethiopian eunuch’s encounter with Philip (Acts of the Apostles). How can you discern opportunities to serve others in their spiritual journey?

Personal Commitment:

1. What steps can you take this week to affirm your choice to serve the Lord in your household and community?

2. Reflect on your God-given abilities. How will you use these to honor your call to service?

Prayer Points

1. Commitment to Service:

“Lord, grant me and my household the resolve to boldly declare, ‘We will serve the Lord,’ and to honor this commitment daily.”

2. Strength Against Distractions:

“Father, shield my heart from distractions and temptations that make Your service seem burdensome. Help me to find joy and fulfillment in serving You.”

3. Empowerment for Ministry:

“God, prepare and empower me to serve effectively, combining my talents with others to accomplish Your will and share Your love.”