Summary: Although Jesus was the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15)—God in human nature he lived as a humble servant (Philippians 2:5-11). Placing the needs of others before his own, Jesus reached out to “sinners” and socially/economically marginalized, healed many of diseases, fed people, and delivered several from demonic oppression. As a servant, Jesus’ acts of generosity and justice illustrate the different ways we can serve others in need.

It’s important to note that Jesus also relied on the presence and power of the Spirit (even though he is God) when he served others (Luke 4:18-28). Although Jesus’ ultimate expression of being a servant was his death on the cross for our sins, his example of washing the disciples’ feet also highlights what it means to serve others.  

1 There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. 2 And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. 3 And his delight shall be in the fear of the Lord. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide disputes by what his ears hear, 4 but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. 5 Righteousness shall be the belt of his waist, and faithfulness the belt of his loins.

1. How does Scripture use the metaphor of bearing fruit? (Mark 4:1-20; Galatians 5:22-23)

2. How does Jesus’ characteristics (11:2) relate to serving others?      

3. The Spirit plays a role in serving (11:2). How does this truth relate to serving others?

4. How do we develop a more intimate relationship with the Spirit?

5. What’s the importance of developing a “fear of the Lord?” (11:2-3)

6. According to Isaiah, righteousness plays a key role in two kinds of judgment (11:3-4). Explain.

7. How can we use justice to serve others? Be specific and practical.