Ministry Workshop: Session 1 Title: The Heart of Ministry — Following Christ Into Ministry

Opening Thought:

“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.”

— Mark 10:45 (NIV)

1. What Is Ministry?

• Ministry is not a title or a task list.

• It’s about following Jesus and becoming like Him.

• Ministry is service motivated by love for God and people.

Biblical Foundation:

• John 13:12–17 — Jesus washes His disciples’ feet, modeling servant leadership.

• Philippians 2:5–7 — “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus…” Humility and service.

• Galatians 5:13 — “Through love serve one another.”

2. The Heart Behind Ministry

• Ministry starts with Jesus:

Jesus was the first minister in the New Testament. He is our example.

• Ministry is more than function:

It is a heart posture of humility and love.

• Ministry means:

• Serving without seeking recognition.

• Putting others’ needs before your own.

• Helping others grow in their relationship with Jesus.

3. Self-Reflection for Those Wanting to Join Ministry

Encourage ministry leaders to ask these questions to new team members:

• Why do you want to serve in this ministry?

• How do you see ministry as following Jesus, not just filling a role?

• How do you handle situations where you aren’t noticed or praised for your service?

• How do you react when things in ministry don’t go your way?

• Are you willing to serve even in tasks that seem small or unseen?

• What does Christ-likeness in ministry mean to you?

4. Final Encouragement:

• Remind participants that ministry flows from the heart.

• Titles, teams, and tasks follow heart commitment, not the other way around.

• True ministry is:

“Let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves.” (Luke 22:26)