Introduction

 

I.        A concern of every congregation of the Lord’s church is involvement.

II.       Some think that the problem is laziness.

A.       That might be true for some people (Titus 1:12).

B.       However, I do not believe this is our primary problem.

III.      Let’s take up the challenge of getting Christians to properly prioritize.

A.       Let’s use an Old Testament example where God speaks clearly to the issue (Malachi 1:6-10).

B.       It’s important for us to bring this scenario up to the present day.

IV.      While Micah presents the downside Nehemiah presents the positive (Nehemiah 4:6).

A.       That’s the spirit needed in the church today.

B.       So, what does the church today need to allow the main thing to prevail among us?

 

Text

 

I.        The Church Needs A Heart To Care For One Another (John 13:34).

A.       Part of caring for one another is participating in one another’s feelings.

B.       Too often we have a limited view of the needs of others.

C.      Jesus demonstrates that we must care for people.

II.      The Church Needs Eyes To See The Value Of Serving Christ (Matthew 25:36-40).

A.       Serving others is serving Christ.

B.       Jesus also showed the other side of the coin; failing to serve others is failing to serve Christ (Matthew 25:44-45).

C.      It’s so easy for us to dismiss great mountains of spiritual and physical need with the simple judgment, “It won’t do any good.”

III.     The Church Needs Tongues Tied To Keep Us From Speaking Hurtful Words.

A.       Why do so many find their greatest joy in making others feel bad?

B.       It is so easy to destroy the church’s initiative with a critical spirit.

C.      Our aim needs to be building up the church, not tearing it down (Colossians 2:6-7).

 

Conclusion

 

I.        We’ve called this sermon “A Willingness To Do What’s Needed.”

A.       That spirit should characterize every member of the church every day.

B.       Does that spirit characterize you?

II.       God has commissioned you for service.

A.       It wouldn’t seem that He would mind you serving as a coach, a scout leader or a tutor.

B.       But those things do not excuse you from serving Him and His church.