"Stewardship," as it is applied to our finances, is taught in most churches to all congregants at nearly every age. Unfortunately, too often the practice of stewardship begins and ends with the monetary gift.
From a biblical perspective, stewardship is expected in all aspects of our lives!
Jesus was always and in every way "about His Father's business." He preached the gospel, He healed the wounded and brokenhearted, He freed the captives and gave sight to the blind (Luke 4:18). Should we do less? "As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God" (1 Peter 4:10).
"Service" is just as frequently couched only in terms of "church" or "charity" work. Often, only the "full-time" ministry is considered real service to the Lord, with all other vocations cast in the light of "secular" employment. But the Bible teaches that we are to "do all to the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31).
The Genesis mandates (Genesis 1:28 and 9:1-7) are the foundational delegation of authority for all legitimate "service" to God as "stewards" of earth's inhabitants, resources, and social order. "Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful" (1 Corinthians 4:2).
"Sacrifice" of our personal wants and desires in favor of our Father's instructions is also expected of every man, woman, and child who desires to please God. Neither is any ministry exempt. Wise stewardship of every resource is commanded. "But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things" (Philippians 3:7-8).
ICR has long encouraged this "creationist" perspective. Please consider co-laboring with us in our efforts to motivate leaders to teach "total stewardship" among God's people.
"O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together" (Psalm 34:3).
*Dr. Morris is CEO of the Institute for Creation Research.
Cite this article: Morris III, H. 2007. Stewardship, Service & Sacrifice. Acts & Facts. 36 (8): 17.