Ice Breaker

What's the most memorable act of service someone has done for you that you didn't expect?

Summary

In this sermon, Pastor Kent addresses the question of why Christians should adopt Jesus' way of servant leadership when the world's approach of 'looking out for number one' seems more effective. He explores Mark 10:42-45, where Jesus teaches his disciples that true greatness comes through serving others, not through exercising authority over them. Jesus himself, though God incarnate, came not to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss the countercultural way of servant leadership that Jesus modeled, we ask that You would open our hearts to Your truth. Challenge our worldly perspectives and help us see the eternal value in serving others rather than seeking our own advancement. May this discussion transform our understanding of true greatness and inspire us to follow Your example of humble service. In Jesus' name, amen.

Key Verses

1. Mark 10:45
2. Mark 10:42-43
3. John 3:16

Questions

1. The pastor asks, 'Why be a servant when being a savage works so much better?' How would you answer this question based on the sermon?
2. How does Jesus' statement 'Not so with you' challenge the way leadership is typically viewed in our culture?
3. In what areas of your life do you find it most difficult to adopt a servant mindset rather than looking out for number one?
4. The pastor mentions that only people will cross from this life into eternity. How does this perspective change how we might prioritize our relationships?
5. What's the difference between the legacy of the woman who used her money to manipulate others versus the pastor's grandfather who secretly bought coats for families in need?
6. Jesus washed his disciples' feet the night before his crucifixion. What does this teach us about how to use our final moments or opportunities with others?
7. The pastor states that the truly 'great' people in the church are often those serving behind the scenes. How might this reframe how we view success in our church community?
8. What is one practical way you could adopt more of a servant leadership approach in your family, workplace, or community this week?

Life Application

This week, identify one relationship or situation where you've been focused on your own interests or advancement. Intentionally flip the script by looking for a specific way to serve that person or group without recognition. Keep a journal of how this shift in mindset affects both the relationship and your own perspective. Remember Jesus' words that whoever wants to be great must be a servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.

Key Takeaways

1. Jesus modeled servant leadership by coming not to be served but to serve and give his life for others.
2. The world's approach of 'might makes right' is directly contradicted by Jesus' teaching that greatness comes through service.
3. Living only for this moment and our own interests leads to a loveless legacy, while serving others creates lasting impact.
4. Only people will cross from this life into eternity, making relationships and how we serve others of eternal significance.
5. True greatness in God's kingdom is found in humble service, not in positions of power or authority.

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for modeling true servant leadership by washing Your disciples' feet and ultimately giving Your life for us. Forgive us for the times we've pursued our own interests at the expense of others. Transform our hearts to desire greatness as You define it—through humble service and self-sacrifice. Give us the courage to live counter-culturally, adopting Your 'not so with you' approach to leadership and relationships. May our lives reflect Your love in tangible ways this week as we seek to serve rather than be served. In Your name we pray, amen.