I Love The Church: Jesus Is In Charge
Doug Walls
Part of I Love The Church Series
May 5, 2025

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Sunday May 4th, 2025 @ The OWA Theatre

In this powerful message, we’re reminded that Christ is the head of the church, and we are His body. This isn’t just a metaphor - it’s a call to action. Just as our brain directs our body’s movements, Christ should direct our actions as the church. The key scripture, Colossians 1:18, emphasizes this truth. But what does this mean for us practically? It means embracing the way of Jesus - a path of humility, service, and love. We’re challenged to reflect on how we can serve others, not just in church, but in our homes and communities. The story of Jesus washing His disciples’ feet serves as a powerful example of this humble service. This message urges us to activate our faith through service, reminding us that our level of service reflects our love and commitment to God. As we align ourselves with Christ’s leadership, we become a powerful force for change in our world, embodying the love and service that Jesus modeled for us.

Here’s a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based:

Day 1: The Church as God’s Design
Reading: Ephesians 2:19-22
Devotional: As we reflect on the church being God’s design, consider how you personally fit into this grand blueprint. Just as each stone in a building has its unique place and purpose, you too have been carefully positioned by the Master Builder. How does knowing you are part of God’s “holy temple” change your perspective on your role in the church? Today, pray for a renewed sense of purpose and belonging within your faith community.

Day 2: Christ as the Head of the Church
Reading: Colossians 1:15-20
Devotional: Today’s passage emphasizes Christ’s supremacy over all things, including the church. As you meditate on these verses, consider how allowing Christ to truly be the “head” of your life might change your daily decisions and priorities. Are there areas where you’re resisting His leadership? Take time to surrender those to Him, trusting that His guidance is always for your good and His glory.

Day 3: Serving Others in Love
Reading: John 13:1-17
Devotional: Jesus’ example of washing His disciples’ feet is a powerful illustration of humble service. As you read this passage, imagine yourself in that room. How would you have reacted to Jesus kneeling before you? Today, look for practical ways to “wash the feet” of those around you - perhaps through an unexpected act of kindness or by taking on a task no one else wants to do. Remember, true greatness in God’s kingdom is measured by our willingness to serve.

Day 4: Unity in the Body of Christ
Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
Devotional: Paul’s analogy of the church as a body beautifully illustrates the importance of unity and diversity. Reflect on your unique gifts and how they contribute to the overall health of your faith community. Are you using these gifts to their fullest potential? Consider also how you can better appreciate and encourage the diverse gifts of others around you. Pray for a spirit of unity and mutual appreciation within your church.

Day 5: Living Out Our Faith
Reading: James 2:14-26
Devotional: James challenges us to ensure our faith is not just theoretical, but practical and visible. As you read, ask yourself: How is my faith being demonstrated through my actions? Look for opportunities today to put your faith into practice - whether through acts of service, words of encouragement, or standing up for what’s right. Remember, a living faith is an active faith that touches the lives of those around us.

Small Group Guide: “Jesus as the Head of the Church”

Opening Prayer:
Begin the session with a prayer, asking God to guide your discussion and help apply the teachings to your lives.

Key Takeaways:
1. Jesus is the head of the church, directing everything as our brain directs our body.
2. The way of Jesus involves serving others with humility and love.
3. Our level of service reflects our love and commitment to God.
4. Serving starts at home and extends to our community and church.
5. We can only truly serve others through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What stood out to you most from the sermon? Why?

  2. The pastor mentioned that “the church is designed to be a gathering of people and then a scattering of people to go into the world to be sent.” How can we better live out this concept in our daily lives?

  3. Discuss the significance of Jesus washing His disciples’ feet. How can we apply this example of humble service in our modern context?

  4. How does our relationship with God impact our ability to serve others? Can you share an experience where your closeness to God affected your service?

  5. The sermon emphasized that serving should start at home. What are some practical ways we can better serve our spouses, children, or other family members?

  6. How does the idea of Jesus as the head of the church challenge or change your perspective on your role within the church community?

  7. The pastor mentioned that humility cannot be faked. How can we cultivate genuine humility in our lives?

  8. Discuss the statement: “The level of our serve and commitment of our serve reflects our love and commitment to God.” Do you agree? Why or why not?

Practical Applications:

  1. This week, intentionally look for opportunities to serve others in your home, workplace, or community. Keep a journal of these experiences and how they impacted you and others.

  2. Evaluate your current areas of service in the church. Are there new areas where you feel God calling you to serve? Make a plan to explore these opportunities.

  3. Set aside time each day this week to strengthen your relationship with God through prayer and Bible reading. Reflect on how this impacts your attitude towards serving others.

  4. Practice active listening in your conversations this week, focusing on understanding and serving the person you’re talking to rather than waiting for your turn to speak.

  5. Identify one area in your home life where you can improve in serving your family members. Commit to making a change and ask for accountability from the group.

Closing Prayer:
Close the session by praying for each other, asking God to help you grow in your ability to serve others and to strengthen your relationship with Him.