One Another – Romans 12

An Expositional Journey through Romans 12

Serving is imperative to the Body of Christ. It contributes both to the spiritual growth, care and development of others, while also advancing the mission of the local church.  Serving is also critical to the continued spiritual growth and development of every follower of Jesus.  However, while people serving one another is critical to the health and vitality of any local church, the primary reason we serve is this: because Jesus served.  In His own words, Jesus exclaims: For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. (Mark 10:45 NIV)  Therefore, a distinctive of becoming more like Jesus is a life of service to others.

A somewhat common expression when it comes to people serving within the context of the local church goes something like this: 10% of the people do 100% of the work while 90% look on.  Why is this true or acceptable? In the New Testament, the church is likened to a Body with many parts doing their work to build up the whole (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). So why would we be okay with only 10-20% of the church body functioning when it has been designed in such a way for all parts to function and contribute to the Gospel mission and purpose of the whole? How do we change this paradigm within our own context? And why is it so critical and urgent that we do so? 

The purpose of Westover Church is to develop mature(ing) followers of Jesus Christ. We accomplish this purpose in three ways: by helping people Grow in the Gospel, Connect in Community, and Serve on Mission. Therefore, a crucial part of the evidence of those who are maturing in Christ are those whose lives are marked by service.

The Apostle Paul, in Galatians 5:13-14, says it this way: You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 

Using Romans 12 as our foundational passage, this series will focus each week on at least one of the 59 “One Another’s” found in the New Testament, while also exploring what it means to be a Gospel-people to one another and the world by moving our congregation toward opportunities for living and serving on mission for the Glory of Christ.

SERMON SERIES RESOURCES via WestoverChurch.com