September Theme – The Mind of Christ: Breaking Free From Earthly Thinking to Embrace Christ’s Mind
SUNDAY’S SERMON SUMMARY
When the eternal God stepped into our world, He did not come with lightning, legions, or golden thrones. Instead, He came clothed in humility—laid in a manger, walking dusty roads, stooping to wash feet, and finally dying on a cross. The One who spoke galaxies into existence knelt before sinners. The Commander of angel armies declared, “I am among you as he that serveth” (Luke 22:27). From Eden’s fall to Babel’s tower, pride has always been humanity’s downfall. Yet in Christ we see the opposite—He lowered Himself, and the Father lifted Him high. In God’s Kingdom, the crown always follows the cross, and the path upward is always downward. This truth confronts our arrogance and invites us to marvel at His love. Holiness is not merely a doctrine to study but a life to imitate.
Jesus proves that true greatness is never measured by how high we rise, but by how far we descend in love. Here lies the paradox of the Gospel: pride corrodes, but humility redeems. Pride shouts, “My will, my way, my rights,” but humility bows and prays, “Not my will, but Thine.” The mind of Christ calls us to surrender our pride, our position, and even our reputation, so that His life may shine through us. In marriage, humility heals resentment; in the church, it silences division; in daily life, it unlocks the floodgates of grace. When we humble ourselves, we step into the very mind of Christ and taste the power of His resurrection flowing through us.
GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
The Quiet Power of Service
“But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” — Matthew 23:11
Greatness Is Measured by Service
In God’s Kingdom, greatness is upside down from the world’s standards. The world measures greatness by how many people serve you; Jesus measures greatness by how many people you serve. He said in Mark 9:35, “If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.” True influence doesn’t come from titles, thrones, or recognition—it flows from a willing heart that bends low to lift others up.
Hidden Service Reflects Christ Most Clearly
Serving without applause reveals the heart of Christ more than any platform or position. Jesus taught in Matthew 6:4 that the Father sees what is done in secret and rewards openly. When you sweep a floor, pray for a neighbor, or encourage the overlooked—without anyone noticing—you reflect the humility of the Savior who came, not to be served, but to serve. Philippians 2:7 says He “made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant.” Quiet service is Christlikeness in action.
The Way Down Is the Way Up
In the economy of God, stooping is rising. When you humble yourself to serve, heaven sees it as greatness. Jesus said in Luke 14:11, “For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” Earth may overlook your sacrifice, but God exalts those who choose the servant’s path. The towel in your hand today becomes a crown in His presence tomorrow.
When Jesus washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:3–5), it was shocking. The King of glory took the lowest towel, stooped beneath sinners, and turned service into a crown. In that moment, He showed that the greatest throne is a kneeling heart.
Prayer: Jesus, make me a servant like You. Deliver me from the need to be seen, noticed, or praised. Empty me of pride and fill me with Your humility. May my hands and heart be ready for lowly tasks that honor You and reflect Your love. In Your name I pray, Amen.
Challenge: Today, do one act of service in secret. Don’t tell anyone—let it be just between you and the Lord. It may be as small as a prayer for someone who doesn’t know, or as practical as meeting a need without recognition. Serve quietly, and let heaven record it.
WEDNESDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Allysa Elliott
Amy Garner’s Dad
Annette Ford
Andrea Nix– Friend of the Shelnutt’s
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Ann Stanley
Carol Lawhead – Park Place Rehab in Monroe
Danny Jarrard – Knee Surgery Soon
Darlene Wiggins
Debbie Foskey
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gayle Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
James Burnette
Jessica Headrick
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Kim’s Sisters – Ann & Brenda
Lee Cronan
Lillianna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Mays
Lonzo Christian
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Mrs. Franklin
Nora Allison
Ron And Johnnie Barry – Friends Of Ashton & Glenda Bateman
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Scott Lanier
Scotty Nix
Sheila Simmons
Stephanie Seivers – Friend of the Shellnutts
Steve Michaels
Tom Witcher