Serving in a Post-Pandemic Church

Scripture References: Mark 8:35 / Luke 9:24 (Losing life to find it); Philippians 2:3-8 (Serving others like Christ)

Sermon Notes:

Intro: Welcome! We gather here to train to be like Jesus, not just try. Trying fails; training builds capacity. Our church's effectiveness isn't about one leader, but the collective strength and commitment of the team – the body of Christ serving together sacrificially.

Key Points:

1. Training Requires Sacrifice: Just like athletes, following Jesus involves discipline and sacrifice. Simply wanting to be like Him isn't enough; we must embrace the lifestyle and costs involved (Baseball analogy).
2. The Power of a Committed Core: Historically, the church thrives when people give sacrificially – even when it hurts or costs. Our church was built by such a "dream team." This is the path to deep meaning and finding true life (Mark 8:35).
3. Post-Pandemic Reality: The pandemic significantly damaged our "serve culture." While attendance is recovering, volunteer participation lags (only 10% currently active vs. 20% needed as baseline). We need to rebuild this vital aspect of our church life.
4. Call to Re-Engage: Attend Regularly: Consistent presence matters. Sporadic attendance makes serving feel like missing out. Prioritize gathering weekly over competing schedules (sports, etc.). Repetition forms us.
5. Call to Re-Engage: Serve One, Attend One: We're re-emphasizing this model. Participate fully by attending one service and serving during another. (Service times adjusted to 9:00 & 10:45 AM to help). Lead your families in this, don't assume "my kids won't."
6. The Value Proposition: Why Serve? The core issue isn't logistics, but perceived value. Why do we gather and serve? Vision: To Behold Jesus (savor Him together), Reflect His brilliance (through obedience & Spirit's power), and Devote to His mission (lost found, disciples made, churches planted). This counters the drift towards self-focus many experienced recently.
7. Ministry Opportunities (The Pitch): We need volunteers to fulfill this vision! Consider joining: 
   • Radiant Kids: Invest in the next generation (goal: 250 volunteers).
   • Media Team: Help communicate the gospel effectively, creating a welcoming online and in-person experience (goal: 20 volunteers).
   • Security Team: Create a safe environment and be a welcoming presence downtown.
   • Hospitality Team: Welcome guests, connect people, provide care (meals), ensure smooth services.

Conclusion: Putting Jesus' brilliance on display requires more than passive attendance; it requires active, sacrificial service. It involves giving even when it hurts because He is worthy. Let's rebuild our culture of participation together, valuing His mission and reflecting His love through committed service.

Call to Action:

• Commit to attending church regularly.
• Embrace the "Serve One, Attend One" model.
• Prayerfully consider where you can serve and sign up for a team (Kids, Media, Security, Hospitality).
• Ask God to give you and our church a renewed passion for serving His mission together.

radiantvisalia.com
with Travis Aicklen
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