All Call Sunday

A Sermon by Judy Mensch, missionary to the children of Europe.

For more information about Judy here.

Ouline

Introduction

• Introduction of the speaker: Judy Mensch, a missionary, children’s pastor, evangelist, and Bible school instructor.
• Personal anecdotes regarding support and shared history with the church community.
• Humorous and personal stories to establish rapport (e.g., pantyhose story behind the pulpit).
• Emphasis on the church as a community of people, not just a building.

Reflections on Aging and Experience

• Positive perspective on aging: increased wisdom and social skills.
• Physical challenges of aging contrasted with personal vitality and ongoing activity.
• Encouragement to embrace age and continue serving.

Purpose and Structure of the Service

• Explanation of the focus: The Body of Christ and individual roles within it.
• Outline of how the service will conclude:
  • Invitation for newcomers to learn about Jesus.
  • Instructions for congregation members to visit ministry tables and sign up for service opportunities.
  • Emphasis that everyone should find a place to serve.

The Body of Christ: Diversity and Function

• Analogy of the body: Each part has a unique and necessary function.
• Encouragement for all members to participate in ministry, not to remain spectators.
• Assurance that everyone has something to contribute.

The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30)

• Reference to the parable as a basis for the message.
• Clarification of terminology: preference for “skills and gifts” over “talents.”
• Emphasis that all have received gifts/skills from God.

Key Points of the Message

• A. Variety of Gifts
  • Everyone has received something; no one is left out.
  • Gifts differ in type and measure, reflecting God’s sovereignty and purpose.
  • Biblical references: 1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12, Ephesians.
• B. Responsibility of Having Gifts
  • Each person is called to use their gifts in service.
  • Serving fills personal gaps and brings fulfillment.
  • God’s will is for everyone to be active, not passive.
• C. Rewards of Using Gifts
  • Joy is the reward for serving and using one’s gifts.
  • Serving others leads to personal growth and spiritual satisfaction.

Diversity and Equality in the Body

• God gives different gifts to different people, but loves all equally.
• No gift is more honorable; all are necessary for the body to function.
• Reference to the “upside down kingdom”: God’s values often differ from worldly values.

Practical Application and Encouragement

• Encouragement to sign up for ministries, including less glamorous roles (e.g., nursery).
• Recognition that some ministries are less visible but equally important.
• Everyone’s contribution matters, regardless of recognition or praise.

Conclusion

• Restatement of the call to serve and be active in the body of Christ.
• Assurance that serving is serving Jesus himself.
• Final instructions for the congregation on next steps after the service.