Serve or be served?
Updated: 3 days ago
OUTLINE:
MAIN POINT: Being a disciple in Jesus’s kingdom looks like following his example of being motivated by sacrifice and service.
I. Sacrifice ourselves to follow Jesus v17-23
II. Serve others to follow Jesus v24-28
III. Recognizing ourselves in light of Jesus v29-34
Beyond the Walls (Grace and Growth)
Weekly Reading:
Day 1
READ: Matthew 20:17–19 & Philippians 3:10
Why is it tempting to expect following Jesus to be a path of ease and comfort rather than self-sacrifice?
How does Jesus’ clear prediction of His suffering and death challenge any "prosperity gospel" mindset?
What is one area of your life where you are currently resisting the cost of following Christ?
Day 2
READ: Matthew 20:20–22 & James 4:1–3
Where do you see tendencies in your own heart to seek self-promotion, status, or authority over serving others?
Why do we often miss the true mission of Jesus because we are preoccupied with our own standing?
When Jesus asks, "What do you want me to do for you?" what is your honest heart's response today?
Day 3
READ: Matthew 20:22–23 & 1 Peter 4:12–14
What does it mean practically to share in the "cup of suffering" as a follower of Jesus?
How can you respond with faith and endurance when hardship or opposition arises because of your faith?
How does knowing that God holds ultimate authority help you surrender your desire to control your future?
Day 4
READ: Matthew 20:24–26 & Luke 22:24–27
In what ways does the world's approach to leadership and ambition creep into your daily life and relationships?
Why is the worldly pursuit of lording authority over others completely contrary to the way of Christ?
How can you actively choose humility over self-promotion in your workplace, home, or community this week?
Day 5
READ: Matthew 20:26–27 & Philippians 2:3–5
What does it look like to embrace the mindset of a servant or a slave in a culture that values individual rights and status?
Are you serving others out of a desire for recognition, or out of a genuine desire to build up the church?
What is one practical, behind-the-scenes way you can serve someone in your church family this week?
Day 6
READ: Matthew 20:28 & 1 Timothy 2:5–6
How does understanding Jesus as your "ransom" change how you view your past sin and current worth?
Why is a self-sacrificial lifestyle the natural overflow of someone who has been bought with a price?
How can you model Christ’s example of coming "not to be served, but to serve" in your closest relationships today?
Day 7
READ: Matthew 20:29–34 & Psalm 119:18
Like the blind men, what spiritual blindness or self-reliance do you need to ask Jesus to heal in your life today?
How does recognizing your total dependence on God change your approach to serving Him and others?
What specific need can you bring to Jesus in humble prayer right now, trusting in His deep compassion?
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