Nutritional. Many pastors consciously or subconsciously subscribe to a “growth” or “spiritual formations” model in helping their congregations mature in faith. They know that the Bible has something to do with growth; but is the Bible, by itself, sufficient for spiritual health and growth?
Good nutrition alone cannot make a person healthy. Good Bible teaching alone is insufficient for spiritual maturity. People need exercise for physical health and serve for spiritual health. We learn from Scripture, but we grow by serving others.
In serving, people have opportunities to have their faith stretched. Of course, it is possible to serve without growing spiritually, just as some people can stuff themselves with knowledge and never really do anything with the wisdom gained. Some people are scared of serving outside their circle of friends. One of the neatest congregational models of service I’ve seen was at Taylor Road Baptist Church’s in Montgomery, AL.
This project of service was the brainchild of then pastor, Dr. Joe Godfrey, who engaged every Sunday School class in at least one act of service during the year. Each class elected a missions leader who was responsible for attending a mission fair and coming back with ideas for the class. Once committed to a project, the Sunday School class prepared for the act of service and then reported back to the church.
Serving in groups, especially through the Sunday School clusters, benefits congregations. I believe that four strategic things can happen through this type of service model:
1. Service gets small groups out of their comfort zones.
2. Service causes groups to bond together in tight relationships.
3. Service is a vehicle for groups to use the spiritual gifts of the “whole” and take advantage of evangelistic opportunities.
4. Service of the group provides visual goodwill in the community of that church.
Another benefit of serving as a group is that there is often an immediate gratification that swirls around in the group and motivates continued growth. People thrive on opportunities to give back to others, to make a difference, to positively influence the world around them, and to be a part of enhancing their community.
A wise person once stated that “we begin to grow when we take responsibility for the growth of another person.” Are you ready to serve, yet? Are you ready to grow deeper in your faith journey? If so, dive in and serve someone in need today!
