Sunday Sermon: Discipleship (2) Good Steward Who Received Grace
“7The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 8Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.”
Jesus calls us to be His disciples, and to be a disciple means to follow His character, His footsteps, and His work. We are called to resemble the One we follow, and this call is a deeper invitation to live a life that reflects Jesus in every aspect.
1. Self-Control for Praying
Peter tells us in 1 Peter 4:7-8, "Therefore be clear-minded and self-controlled so that you can pray." This passage emphasizes the importance of self-control as a foundation for a disciplined prayer life. Prayer is not just something we do in times of trouble or need; it is an essential, ongoing part of our relationship with God. It is through prayer that we engage in deep, continuous conversation with God, seeking His will and guidance. Prayer is not just a means to an end but an end in itself—one of the ultimate goals of discipleship. It deepens our relationship with God, helping us to align our hearts and minds with His.
2. Prayer for Loving Deeply
As we commit to a life of prayer, something profound begins to happen—we develop a deeper love for others. Peter continues, "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." This love is not just a casual affection but a love that is willing to extend grace, forgiveness, and understanding. It is a love that reflects the grace that God has shown us. Prayer leads us to see others as God sees them, under His grace and mercy. It is this love that empowers us to forgive, to bear with one another, and to foster genuine community.
3. Love for Serving in Grace
Our discipleship does not end with prayer and love; it must be expressed in service. Peter instructs us to "use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace." Serving others is not an optional part of our Christian life—it is central to our calling as disciples. We are stewards of the gifts, resources, and opportunities that God has entrusted to us. Whether it is within the church, at home, or in our workplaces, we are called to serve others, reflecting God’s love and grace in tangible ways. Serving is an act of worship, a response to God’s grace in our lives. It is through serving that we grow in our discipleship, as we follow the example of Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve.
As we conclude, let us remember that our Christian life is about more than receiving God’s grace—it is about living out that grace through prayer, love, and service. By committing to these practices, we fulfill our role as disciples, faithfully managing the gifts God has entrusted to us, and participating in His mission in the world. I encourage each of you to find ways to serve—within our church, in your homes, and in your communities. Let us embrace our role as active participants in the life of the church and the broader world.
Prayer: Lord, we thank You for the invitation to follow You, for the grace that calls us into this journey of discipleship. Help us to be clear-minded and self-controlled, to engage in prayer that deepens our relationship with You. Lead us to love one another deeply, with a love that reflects Your grace. And empower us to serve, faithfully stewarding the gifts You have given us, to bring glory to Your name. Amen.
(Note: This summary was created based on an AI draft.)