Who is Jesus? A Call to servanthood
Sermon Notes
WHO IS JESUS? A CALL TO SERVANTHOOD
Sermon by Jordan Stinziano | March 2nd, 2024
Introduction
Pastor Jordan Stinziano from Syracuse, NY, shares a message from Mark 10:35-52. The sermon continues the series "Jesus in a Bottle," which challenges the idea of making Jesus fit into our personal preferences rather than following Him as Lord. The focus is on who Jesus truly is and how He calls us to follow Him in humility and service.
The Wrong Request: James and John Seek Power
James and John approach Jesus with a bold request, asking Him to do whatever they ask. They want to sit at His right and left in His kingdom, seeking influence, control, and recognition. Jesus tells them they do not understand what they are asking and asks, "Can you drink the cup I drink?" referring to His suffering and sacrifice. They respond with confidence, but they fail to grasp the cost of truly following Jesus.
Jesus uses this moment to teach that leadership in His kingdom is not about power but about servanthood. He tells them that whoever wants to be great must be a servant, and whoever wants to be first must be a slave to all. He contrasts worldly leadership, where rulers seek control, with God's kingdom, where the greatest serve others. Jesus Himself is the ultimate example, saying, "The Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many."
The Right Request: Bartimaeus Asks for Mercy
Bartimaeus, a blind and insignificant beggar, calls out to Jesus, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" The crowd rebukes him, but he cries out even louder. Unlike James and John, who seek power, Bartimaeus seeks restoration.
Jesus asks him the same question He asked James and John: "What do you want me to do for you?" Bartimaeus simply asks, "Lord, let me see." Jesus grants his request because of his faith, and Bartimaeus follows Him.
Jesus responds to humility and faith, not selfish ambition. Power-seekers get rebuked, but mercy-seekers get restored.
Applying This to Our Lives
Who are we more like? Are we seeking status and recognition like James and John, or are we humbly crying out to Jesus like Bartimaeus, recognizing our need for Him?
Jesus calls us to live as servants, not rulers. True greatness in God’s kingdom is found in humility. He calls us to seek Him, not just His benefits, asking for transformation rather than power or comfort. Following Jesus requires sacrifice, just as Bartimaeus followed Him on the road to the cross.
Conclusion: Communion & Reflection
Examine your heart and ask yourself what you are truly seeking from Jesus. Are you looking for His will, or trying to bend Him to yours? Before taking communion, reflect on how Jesus is calling you to trust and serve Him.
Take the change God is working in you beyond church walls—bring the hope of Jesus into the world.
Jesus doesn’t call us to power; He calls us to servanthood, humility, and surrender. Let’s seek Him for who He truly is.