In what ways can we serve others with humility as Paul did? Setting the Scene: Paul’s Humble Posture in Acts 20:17 “From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church.” (Acts 20:17) • Paul does not summon them as a superior demanding attention; he invites them as fellow servants. • In the verses that follow (vv. 18–19), he reminds them he “served the Lord with great humility and with tears.” His authority flows from self-emptying love, not title or status. Key Traits of Humble Service • Self-forgetful focus on Christ (Acts 20:19; cf. Galatians 2:20). • Readiness to embrace hardship for others’ good (Acts 20:19; 2 Corinthians 12:15). • Transparent, vulnerable ministry—“with tears” (Acts 20:19). • Relentless teaching of “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27) rather than selective, self-protective topics. • Generous, unburdening attitude—“These hands have supplied my own needs” (Acts 20:34). Practical Ways to Imitate Paul’s Humility Today 1. Listen first, speak second – Slow down long enough to hear hurts and hopes (James 1:19). 2. Serve quietly behind the scenes – Volunteer for tasks no one applauds—setup, cleanup, visitation (John 13:14–15). 3. Share life, not just lessons – Offer honest stories of weakness so Christ’s power is seen (2 Corinthians 12:9). 4. Give sacrificially – Work diligently so you can help the weak (Acts 20:35; Ephesians 4:28). 5. Mentor and multiply – Call others alongside rather than merely directing them (2 Timothy 2:2). 6. Endure misunderstanding without bitterness – Commit vindication to the Lord (1 Peter 2:23). 7. Keep gospel clarity central – Guard against drifting into self-promotion (1 Corinthians 2:2). Guarding the Heart: Motives That Keep Service Humble • Remember who the Lord is: the Master who washed feet (Mark 10:45; John 13:1-17). • Recall where you came from: rescued sinners serve out of gratitude (Ephesians 2:8-10). • Anticipate future reward: “Well done” from Christ, not applause now (Colossians 3:23-24). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Philippians 2:3-4 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition...in humility consider others more important than yourselves.” • Romans 12:10 – “Outdo one another in showing honor.” • 1 Peter 5:5-6 – “Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another...that He may exalt you at the proper time.” Summary Snapshot Serving others with humility, as Paul did, means: • Centering on Christ’s glory, not personal gain. • Embracing tears, toil, and anonymity if they bless others. • Teaching truth faithfully while living it transparently. • Working hard so generosity flows freely. • Finishing the race eager to hear only Jesus’ commendation. |
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