Be One - Make One Class 9
Small Group Discipleship Class: Selfless Service and Sacrifice
Class Objective:
Explore the biblical principles of serving others selflessly, showing sacrificial love, and practicing compassion and empathy. Guide small group discussion and personal reflection on how to live out these aspects of Christlike service.
Part 1: Serving Others
Key Scripture References:
Philippians 2:3-4: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."
Mark 10:45: "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Galatians 5:13: "You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love."
Overview:
Serving others means putting their needs before your own. This requires a humble heart that values others above self and seeks their well-being. Jesus modeled this selfless service throughout His ministry, reminding us that true greatness is found in serving others rather than being served.
Discussion Questions:
How can we practice serving others in our daily lives?
What does it look like to put someone else’s needs before your own in a practical way?
How can we cultivate a heart of humility when serving others?
Application:
This week, identify one person in your life whose needs you can prioritize. Whether through your time or a simple act of service, look for a way to put their well-being ahead of your own.
As a group, discuss a project or opportunity where you can serve others together, whether in your church or local community.
Part 2: Sacrificial Love
Key Scripture References:
John 15:13: "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
Romans 12:1: "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship."
1 John 3:16: "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters."
Overview:
Sacrificial love involves giving up our time, energy, and resources for the sake of others. It reflects Christ's ultimate sacrifice on the cross, where He laid down His life for us. Sacrificial love is costly, but it is a powerful expression of our commitment to following Jesus' example.
Discussion Questions:
What does it mean to show sacrificial love in today’s world?
How does Christ’s example of sacrifice challenge the way we approach our relationships?
What are some ways we can make personal sacrifices for the good of others?
Application:
Reflect on one area of your life where God may be calling you to make a sacrifice for someone else—whether it’s time, money, or personal comfort. Commit to making that sacrifice this week.
As a group, discuss how you can make sacrifices together for the benefit of a community or group in need.
Part 3: Compassion and Empathy
Key Scripture References:
Matthew 9:36: "When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd."
Colossians 3:12: "Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."
Romans 12:15: "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn."
Overview:
Compassion and empathy are essential qualities for selfless service. Jesus demonstrated compassion throughout His ministry, especially toward those in need or suffering. By practicing empathy, we learn to enter into the experiences of others, sharing in their joys and burdens, and offering genuine care and concern.
Discussion Questions:
How can we develop greater empathy and compassion for the people around us?
Why is it important to respond to others’ needs with compassion, even when it’s inconvenient?
What are some practical ways we can show empathy and compassion to those who are suffering?
Application:
This week, identify someone in your life who is going through a difficult time and find a way to offer compassion, whether through a kind word, prayer, or practical help.
As a group, discuss ways you can support those in your community who are struggling, and brainstorm ways to provide compassionate care.
Part 4: Giving Without Expectation
Key Scripture References:
Luke 6:35: "But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back."
Acts 20:35: "In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’"
2 Corinthians 9:7: "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
Overview:
Giving without expectation means offering help, resources, or time to others without looking for anything in return. This mirrors God’s grace, as He freely gives to us. Whether it’s providing for someone’s physical needs, offering time to help a friend, or contributing to a cause, our motivation should come from love, not the desire for recognition or reward.
Discussion Questions:
Why is it important to give without expecting anything in return?
How can we cultivate a heart that delights in giving, even when it goes unnoticed?
What are some ways you can give selflessly this week—whether through time, money, or acts of kindness?
Application:
Look for an opportunity to give this week, whether to a friend, family member, or stranger, and do so without expecting any form of return or recognition.
Reflect on a time when someone gave to you selflessly. How did it impact your relationship with them, and how can you model that for others?
Closing Discussion
How do these aspects of selfless service, sacrificial love, compassion, and giving without expectation shape our understanding of Christlike service?
What practical steps can you take this week to embody these principles in your daily life?
Closing Application:
Choose one element from each part (Serving Others, Sacrificial Love, Compassion, and Giving Without Expectation) to implement this week. Be prepared to share your experiences and how they impacted your perspective during the next meeting.
Next Steps:
Continue exploring and practicing these principles to grow in Christlike service and love for others. Reflect on how these actions build stronger, more compassionate communities that honor God.
This class equips believers to engage in selfless service and sacrificial love, fostering deeper compassion and empathy, while encouraging a lifestyle of giving without expectation.