The One Who Serves

DCC Small Group Discussion: The One Who Serves

Scripture Focus:
Mark 10:35–45

Key Supporting Scriptures:
John 13:12–17
1 Corinthians 15:58
Matthew 25:45
John 15:9–17
1 Peter 4:10
Ephesians 2:10
Galatians 5:13–14
Colossians 3:23–25
Galatians 6:4–10

Main Thought:**
In the Kingdom of God, greatness is not measured by position, title, recognition, or prestige. True greatness is found in humble love, faithful obedience, and serving others the way Jesus served us.

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Introduction

James and John wanted places of honor beside Jesus. They were thinking about greatness in terms of position, closeness, and recognition. But Jesus turned their thinking upside down. He taught that leadership in His Kingdom does not look like worldly leadership. In the world, people often seek power, authority, and status. But Jesus said, “Among you it will be different.”

Jesus showed us that the greatest in the Kingdom is the servant of all.

This was not just something Jesus taught with words. He lived it. In John 13, Jesus washed the feet of His disciples. He took the position of the lowest servant in the house and humbled Himself to serve those He loved. Then He told them to follow His example.

Jesus did not come to be served, but to serve, and ultimately to give His life as a ransom for many. That is the highest picture of love and service. He served with humility, obedience, sacrifice, and love. As His followers, we are called to do the same.

Serving is not just about filling a role or doing a task. It is about expressing the heart of Christ. Our love for Jesus is revealed not merely by what we say, but by how we obey Him and serve others in love.

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Discussion Questions
1.In Mark 10:35–45, what were James and John seeking, and how did Jesus correct their understanding of greatness?
2.How does the world usually define greatness, and how does Jesus define greatness?
3.Why do you think Jesus used service as the measure of leadership in His Kingdom?
4.In John 13, why is it significant that Jesus washed His disciples’ feet?
5.What does foot washing teach us about humility, love, and willingness to do lowly or unseen tasks?
6.Why do people sometimes avoid serving in simple or unnoticed ways?
7.Have you ever been blessed by someone who served quietly and humbly? What impact did it have on you?
8.What does 1 Corinthians 15:58 teach us about the value of serving the Lord?
9.How does Matthew 25:45 challenge the way we view helping “the least of these”?
10.What stood out to you from the “Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody” illustration?
11.Do you think the 80/20 principle is often true in churches? Why do you think that happens?
12.According to 1 Peter 4:10 and Ephesians 2:10, what role do spiritual gifts and good works play in the life of a believer?
13.Why is it important to remember that titles mean little if they are not backed up by faithful service?
14.How does serving others help demonstrate our love for Jesus?
15.What opportunities has God placed before you right now to serve in your home, church, workplace, or community?

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Practical Application

Jesus did not just call us to admire humility. He called us to practice it.

Serving others is one of the clearest ways we reflect Christ. It may not always be glamorous. Sometimes it means doing the unnoticed job, helping without applause, giving without recognition, or stepping in where there is a need. But those acts of service matter deeply to God.

We must not assume that “somebody else” will do what God is prompting us to do. The church is strongest when every believer embraces their God-given role and serves with love, faithfulness, and joy.

Take time this week to ask the Lord:

“Where can I serve?”
“Who can I help?”
“What gift have You given me to strengthen Your body?”
“Am I serving for recognition, or am I serving from love?”

When we serve with the heart of Jesus, we are not doing meaningless work. We are laying up eternal reward, producing lasting fruit, and revealing the love of Christ to others.

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Group Application Challenge

This week, ask each person in the group to do one intentional act of service in one of these areas:
•in their home
•in the church
•for a friend or neighbor
•for someone in need
•in a way that is unseen or unrecognized

At the next gathering, share how God opened the door and what you learned through serving.

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Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You for showing us what true greatness looks like. Thank You for sending Jesus, who did not come to be served but to serve and to give His life for us. Forgive us for the times we have sought recognition, titles, or comfort more than humility and obedience. Fill us with the heart of Christ. Teach us to love one another through action, service, and sacrifice. Show us where we can serve Your people and bless others. Help us to use every gift You have given us for Your glory. Let our lives reflect Your love in practical ways. In Jesus’ name, amen.