Spiritual Gift of Servanthood

The spiritual gift of Servanthood is the engine that moves the body and “thank you” is the fuel. Truly the heart of a servant puts the needs of the body and others in front of their own, and they find great happiness and a feeling of love by doing this work. These are the people that are always first to raise their hand when a project or challenge comes their way. They are not introverts and seek to be with groups in performing their work. Appreciation and seeing the results of their work is key to their involvement.

“Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:9-10 NIV)

“..and to be hospitable is one of the virtues that should shine among Christians; but as rare as Christians are, so rare is also this virtue.” (Luther, Peter & Jude, 184)

More than just Service

This gift goes beyond general acts of service or our basic desire as Christians to help others. Those with this gift are always involved, always asking to help, and are key to keeping the body in motion.

Hospitality is a hallmark trait of this gift. A person with this gift is the consummate host. They are always going above and beyond in this type of service in many ways by opening their homes to different ministries and coordinating church gatherings, meals, and celebrations. They are organized and resourceful with a keen awareness of what is needed for a gathering of any size or purpose. Their gift is exercised with humility, never done so that others can admire their position in life. All they want in return is a “thank you” and the fulfillment they personally receive through ministering to the body in this way.

A potential pitfall of this gift could lead one to neglect their own personal spiritual needs due to their gift of service. Keep in mind the story of Jesus’ visit to Mary and Martha’s house in Luke 10:38-42.

Martin Luther on the Spiritual Gift of Servanthood

Martin Luther believed that the spiritual gift of servanthood was an essential aspect of Christian discipleship. He emphasized that believers should follow the example of Jesus Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve others.

Luther saw servanthood as a way for believers to express their love for God and their concern for others. He believed that serving others was a way to live out the teachings of Jesus, who taught that the greatest commandment was to love God and love one’s neighbor as oneself.

In his writings and sermons, Luther stressed the importance of humility and selflessness in serving others. He encouraged believers to put the needs of others before their own and to avoid seeking recognition or praise for their service.

Luther also believed in the importance of serving in one’s vocation or calling, whether that be as a pastor, a farmer, or a laborer. He saw all work as a way to serve God and others, and encouraged believers to approach their work with a spirit of dedication and service.

John Wesley on the Spiritual Gift of Servanthood

Wesley encouraged believers to use their talents and skills to serve others in practical ways, whether that be through acts of kindness, acts of mercy, or acts of justice. He believed that serving others was not only a way to express one’s faith, but also a way to help build a more just and compassionate society.

The Catholic Church on the Spiritual Gift of Servanthood

Overall, the Catholic Church sees the spiritual gift of servanthood as a way for believers to live out their faith in practical ways, expressing their love for God and their concern for others through humble and selfless service. It is a way for believers to participate in God’s plan for the world and to help build a more just and compassionate society.

The Catholic Church also recognizes the spiritual gift of servanthood as an important aspect of Christian discipleship. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that serving others is a way for believers to participate in God’s plan for the world and to contribute to the common good.

People with this Gift:

Aware of practical needs of the body and has a desire to meet them
Happy to help others so that they can meet their ministry calling
Generous in giving time, energy and effort
Has a need to feel appreciated for their work
Generally are “people persons” and seek opportunities to socialize and be a part of a group
Excels at planning or serving at events and gatherings
May like to work with their hands
May not always see themselves as an important part of ministry

Bible References

John 13:1-17	Jesus washes the disciple’s feet
Luke 10:38-42	Jesus at Mary and Martha’s house
Luke 22:24-30	Jesus teaches about service
Romans 12:6-8	Paul mentions the gift of servanthood
1 Corinthians 3:5	Paul identifies as a servant
1 Corinthians 16:15-18	Those devoted to the service of the Lord’s people deserve recognition
Colossians 3:23-24	Your work serves the Lord, give it all you have
1 Peter 4:7-11	Serve with the strength that God provides
Philippians 2:5-8	Jesus took the form of a servant

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References