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Scripture Reading:  1 Corinthians 1:26-31

Small Things

Intro.

1.  Man thinks BIG, GIGANTIC, IMPRESSIVE, MEGA!  God often operates on a different level (Isa. 55:8-9; Matt. 11:25).  (Size does not commend us to God.)

2.  Zech. 4:10:  “For who has despised the day of small things?”  “In contrast with the ways of men, God's approach often emphasizes small things.” (Mayberry)

3.  Answer “why” it is so with God (that it may also be true of us) & consider some “small things” that God sees as great &/or uses to do great things.

I.  WHY HAS GOD RECEIVED (WHY DOES GOD USE) SMALL THINGS?  1 Cor. 1:26-31

  A.  The Grace of God, 1:30.

    1.  “of Him you are in Christ Jesus” – Eph. 2:4-8; Rom. 3:23-26.

    2.  “by God’s grace I am what I am” – 1 Cor. 15:10 (Rom. 5:6-8; 2 Tim. 1:9).

    3.  God’s power is magnified in our weakness, 2 Cor. 12:7-9.

  B.  So that Our Hope & Trust Will be in God (Christ), 1:30 (2 Cor. 12:10).

    1.  Faith/trust in God, cf. 1 Cor. 1:26-28 (Jer. 10:23).

    2.  Saved in hope…eagerly wait with perseverance, Rom. 8:24-25.

  C.  So that God will be Honored, 1:29, 31.

    1.  By our service, Rom. 12:1-2.

    2.  Honor for His power, sovereignty & majesty, Rom. 8:31-39.

    3.  God works in us when we obey His word, Phil. 2:12-13.

II. SMALL THINGS WHICH ARE GREAT IN GOD’S SIGHT.

  A.  Two or Three Gathered in His Name, Matt. 18:20.

    1.  Those who honor His authority & act under it (Col. 3:17).

    2.  When a church abandons God’s authority & will, its size means nothing to God!  (cf. Rev. 3:1-2, Reputation vs. reality)

  B.  Only a Cup of Cold Water, Matt. 10:42.

    1.  Simple act of faith (10:40-41) that requires thoughtfulness, unselfishness.

    2.  Small choices of hospitality & kindness, Heb. 11:1-2; 1 Pet. 4:9; 1 Cor. 13:4.

  C.  A Person of Faith, Heb. 11:34; 1 Sam. 17:37-47.

    1.  Who does not trust in carnal tactics, but weapons proven in spiritual combat, 17:39-40; 2 Cor. 10:3-4; Eph. 6:13.

    2.  Who will not be intimidated by evil people, 17:42-45; Psa. 119:141; Matt. 5:10-12.

    3.  Who will give God the glory for every blessing he/she has, 17:46-47.

  D.  Little Children, Matt. 18:1-5 (“little” used 7xs in 18:1-14).

    1.  Those who “are converted and become as little children”, 18:3.

    2.  Those who are humble as a “little child” (free of pride, ambition, & envy) & receive the gospel message & messengers, 18:4-5.

    3.  Compassionate & caring like little children, cf. Mk. 10:13-16.

  E.  A Little Money with…

    1.  Godly fear, Prov. 15:16.  This person uses money trusting God, cf. Mk. 12:41-44.

    2.  Love, Prov. 15:17 (17:1).

    3.  Righteousness, Prov. 16:8.  This person uses money thinking of others – generously, unselfishly, 1 Tim. 6:17-19.

    4.  This person is content & blessed; In contrast, see 1 Tim. 6:6-10.

Conclusion

1.  Small things can make a huge difference in the world around us:

  a.  Salt is small, but its influence great (Matt. 5:13).

  b.  Mustard seed is small, but the kingdom grows as our faith increases (Matt. 13:31-32).

  c.  Leaven is unseen, but godly influence spreads lasting good (Matt. 13:33).

2.  World’s standpoint, Christians are a small, struggling band to be pitied.

3.  God’s standpoint, those who keep His word are strong in the faith, Rev. 3:8.

4.  God will bless the day of small things that accord with His purposes & those who fear & trust Him, Psa. 115:9-13.

SOURCES

“The Day of Small Things” by Mark Mayberry, http://www.bibleanswer.com/16Apr00_07.html#first