My Helpers in Christ Jesus
To be used by God, we must be willing to serve in a subordinate role and trust that He will use us when we are ready.
A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of being helpers in Christ's Church rather than seeking positions of prominence. He illustrates that true spiritual power comes from humility and serving others, as exemplified by biblical figures like Joshua and Joseph, who had to embrace subordinate roles before achieving greatness. Simpson warns against the dangers of self-importance and spiritual self-consciousness, urging believers to be willing to take the lowest place in service. He encourages the congregation to trust that God has a place for everyone who is willing to serve faithfully. The ultimate goal is to glorify God while remaining humble and hidden from self.
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Christ's Church is overrun with captains. It is in great need of a few more privates. A few rivers run into the sea, but a larger number run into other rivers. We cannot all be Pioneers, but we can all be helpers. No man is fitted to go in first place until he has learned well how to go second. A spirit of self-importance is fatal to all work for Christ. The biggest enemy of true spiritual power is spiritual self-consciousness. Joshua had to die to human plans and strategy before Jericho could fall. God often has to test His chosen servants by putting them into a subordinate place before He can bring them to the front.
Joseph had to learn to serve in the kitchen and to suffer in prison before he could rise to the throne.
As soon as he was ready for the throne, the throne was waiting for Joseph. God has more places than accepted candidates. Let us not be afraid to go into the training class and even take the lowest place, for we shall soon move up if we really deserve to. Lord, use me so that Thou shalt be glorified and I shall be hidden from myself and others.
Sermon Outline
- The Need for Helpers
- The Importance of Humility
- The Value of Humility
- Joseph had to learn to serve before rising to the throne
- God has more places than accepted candidates
Key Quotes
“A spirit of self-importance is fatal to all work for Christ.” — A.B. Simpson
“God often has to test His chosen servants by putting them into a subordinate place before He can bring them to the front.” — A.B. Simpson
“Lord, use me so that Thou shalt be glorified and I shall be hidden from myself and others.” — A.B. Simpson
Application Points
- Be willing to serve in a subordinate role and trust that God will use you when you are ready.
- Recognize that humility is essential for true spiritual power and growth.
- Pray for God to use you, and trust that He will glorify Himself through you.