Too many people in the world today must think that the word “service” is spelled “serve us.” Society trains us from an early age that we should be served, but Jesus wants us to follow His example and look for opportunities to serve others.
God has always called his people to complete obedience. Jesus said in the presence of the Tempter, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4).
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33).
Jesus did not come into this world for His own good. He had us in mind. Christ said in His own words, “Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). Leaving the glories of heaven and setting aside His equality with the Father (John 17:5; Philippians 2:6-8),
What does it mean to be God’s child? Jesus helps us to understand this in the present context. Our Lord connected God’s goodness (Matthew 7:7-11) to our kindness shown to others. Earlier in the Sermon on the Mount, He had said, “That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven.” Such was the design, or purpose, of one’s loving both friend and foe (Matthew 5:43-48).