SERVICE BY EVERYONE ENLISTED

                                              1 Samuel 30:1-4,7-8,18-25 (248)

  Introduction

       A.  Background for the ordinance by David: “as his part is who goes down to the

             battle, so shall his part be who stays by the supplies; they shall share alike.” V24

       B.  Let’s focus on applying this principle to our service to God.  1 Timothy 6:12 (878)

  I.  God’s army (Ephesians 6:10-18) needs the __________ of everyone enlisted.

       A.  Any military endeavor is dependent on the troops in the field and the support personnel

             at the supply base.  Illustration:

  

       B.  The same is true with God’s army.

             1.  We need those who are willing to serve in “the field of battle,” and those who are

                  willing to serve “at the supply base.”

             2.  A New Testament example:  Philippians 4:15-16 (869); Romans 16:23 (840)

             3.  If we apply this principle (Philippians 4:15-16), we won’t over-emphasize one type

                  of service (preaching) and neglect to appreciate another type of service (preparing

                  the Lord’s Supper).

             4.  Those who are serving “in the field” will appreciate those who are serving “at the

                  supply base”.

  II.  With these thoughts in mind, let’s note how we can co-operate following the same goal,

       sacrifice and zeal.  1 Peter 4:10-11 (896)

       A.  Goal:  “that in ____ things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.”  V11

             1.  We can glorify God no matter what our service to God involves.  Examples: 

                  preparing Lord’s Supper, unlocking and preparing building for worship, maintaining

                  church yard, greeting, singing bass, tenor or alto which goes unnoticed by some

                  until we can’t sing a particular song because these people are absent, etc

       B.  Sacrifice:  “as good _________ of the manifold grace of God.”  V10

             1.  We should use gifts, abilities,etc. that God has given us (Matthew 25:14-30; Romans

                  12:4-8).

             2.  Whatever service requires sacrifice.  Example:

       C.  Zeal:  “as with the ability which God __________.”

             1.  If God supplies it to us, we should use it.  Example:

III.  The faithful efforts that we put forth in our service to God will be remembered and _________.

        1 Corinthians 15:58 (851); Matthew 10:41-42 (711)

  Conclusion:  “that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ”