Answering the Call to Serve: Volunteering and Missionary Work in the Bible

The Bible is a powerful testament to the importance of serving others. From the early followers of Jesus to modern-day missionaries, the call to volunteer and spread the Gospel has resonated throughout Christian history. Let’s explore this concept through biblical examples and verses, examining the motivations and rewards of serving God through acts of compassion and missionary work.

The Heart of a Servant: Biblical Motivations for Volunteering

• Following Christ’s Example: Jesus himself modeled a life of service. In Mark 10:44–45, he declares, “Whoever wants to become chief among you must be your servant, just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus’ act of washing the disciples’ feet (John 13:3–17) serves as a powerful symbol of humility and service. By following Christ’s example, we are called to prioritize the needs of others above our own.

• Love for God and Neighbor: The two greatest commandments, according to Jesus (Matthew 22:36–39), are to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and to love your neighbor as yourself. Volunteering allows us to express this love in tangible ways, by helping those in need and demonstrating God’s compassion through our actions.

• Fulfilling the Great Commission: In Matthew 28:19–20, Jesus commissions his disciples with the Great Commission: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Volunteering and missionary work are ways to fulfill this commission, by sharing the Gospel message and bringing others to Christ.

Biblical Examples of Volunteering and Service

The Bible showcases numerous individuals who answered the call to serve:

• Dorcas: Acts 9:36–42 tells the story of Dorcas, a woman known for her good deeds and acts of charity. She made tunics and garments for the widows in her community, demonstrating how even small acts of service can have a significant impact.

• The Good Samaritan: The parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25–37 emphasizes our responsibility to help those in need, regardless of their background or origin. The Samaritan, unlike the priest and Levite who passed by, went out of his way to care for the injured traveler, setting an example of compassionate service.

• The Early Church: Acts 2:44–47 depicts the early church as a community dedicated to serving one another. “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold their possessions and belongings to give to anyone who had need.” This model of communal support and service continues to inspire Christians today.

Modern-Day Expressions of Serving:

The call to volunteer and serve extends far beyond biblical times. Today, Christians can answer this call in various ways:

• Local Outreach Programs: Many churches organize volunteer opportunities within their communities, from serving meals at homeless shelters to volunteering at soup kitchens or assisting with food banks.

• International Missions: Missionary work allows Christians to share the Gospel and provide humanitarian aid across the globe. This could involve building schools or clinics, teaching skills, or offering medical care in underserved areas.

• Social Justice Issues: The Bible compels us to fight for justice and advocate for the oppressed (Proverbs 31:8–9). Volunteering with organizations that address issues like poverty, human trafficking, or environmental degradation allows us to put our faith into action.

The Rewards of Serving:

The Bible promises numerous rewards for those who serve others:

• Joy and Fulfillment: Proverbs 11:25 tells us, “The generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Serving others brings a deep sense of joy and fulfillment, knowing we are making a positive difference.

• Growth in Faith: As we step outside our comfort zones and serve others, our faith deepens. We encounter new perspectives, develop compassion, and experience God’s love in a tangible way.

• Eternal Rewards: Matthew 25:34–40 describes the parable of the sheep and the goats, where Jesus emphasizes the importance of serving others in his name. Those who do so will inherit the kingdom of heaven.

Conclusion: Answering the Call

The Bible offers a clear message: we are called to be servants. Whether it’s volunteering in our local communities, embarking on international mission trips, or simply showing kindness to those around us, there are countless ways to answer this call to serve.

By following the examples set by Jesus and countless biblical figures, and by embracing the motivations and rewards of serving others, we can live a life that reflects God’s love and compassion in the world.

Taking the First Step:

Here are some practical steps to get started on your journey of service:

• Identify your passions: What skills and interests can you contribute?
• Explore opportunities: Talk to your church, research local organizations, or consider mission trips.
• Start small: Even small acts of service can make a big difference.
• Pray for guidance: Seek God’s direction and rely on His strength as you answer the call to serve.

Remember, the most important aspect is a heart willing to serve. As Mother Teresa famously said, “We can do small things with great love.” So, let’s embrace the spirit of volunteerism and missionary work, and together, make a difference in the world.