the Fundamentals: Servanthood (How to be Great) Questions for Discussion and Reflection

Luke, in Acts 11:26 reveals, “And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.” The label, “Christian” was given to the disciples by the citizens of Antioch noting their follwership and identity with Christ. The suffix “ianos” (from Christianos, Christian) was often used of servants and the household to which they belonged. Servanthood in general and servant of Christ in particular is embedded in our identity as Christians.

Read Mark 10:32-45. What prompted James and John to approach Jesus? (32-34) How should Jesus’ statement “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve” motivate Christians? See also Philippians 2:4.

What insights about servanthood are gained by the following New Testament examples?

Macedonian Christians—2 Corinthians 9:10-15—

The Apostle Paul—Romans 1:1; Ephesians 3:7; and Colossians 1:24-25—

The Apostle Peter—2 Peter 1:1—

Deacons— Acts 6:2-4—

Servant entrusted with five talents—Matthew 25:14-30—

The faithful Servant—Luke 12:41-48—

How ought Christians to serve?

1 Peter 2:16; 4:10—

Romans 12:7—

1 Corinthians 12:5—

2 Corinthians 4:4 & 13:4—

How is the Holy Spirit leading you to grow in the disciple of servanthood?