PM Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 11.1-4

Brent T. Willey

Keeping It Simple

Introduction:

1. Paul was greatly concerned that the Corinthians had become “corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ” (2 Cor. 11.3).
2. The message is clear enough: Keep It Simple!

I. THE GOSPEL – KEEP IT SIMPLE!

1. The basis is simple. (Rom. 1.16-17; 1 Cor. 15.1-4)
2. The plan is simple. (Mark 16.15-16; Rom. 6.3-7, 15-17)
3. Obedience is simple. (Acts 2, 8, 9, 10, 16, 18, 22, etc.)

II. THE CHURCH – KEEP IT SIMPLE!

1. The organization of the church is simple.
   1. Universally (Matt. 16.18; Eph. 5.23)
   2. Locally (Phil. 1.1; Acts 20.28; 1 Pet. 5.1-3)
2. The worship of the church is simple. (John 4.23-24)
   1. Lord’s Supper (Acts 2.42; 20.7; 1 Cor. 11.23-26)
   2. Prayer (Acts 2.42)
   3. Singing (Eph. 5.19; Col. 3.16; Heb. 13.15)
   4. Contribution (1 Cor. 16.1-2)
   5. Preaching/Teaching (Acts 2.42; 20.7)
3. The work of the church is simple. (Eph. 4.11-12)
   1. Edification (2 Tim. 4.2)
   2. Benevolence (Rom. 15.25-26)
   3. Evangelism (Matt. 28.19-20)

III. THE COURSE OF LIFE – KEEP IT SIMPLE!

1. Keep daily living simple. (Luke 9.23; Rom. 12.1-2)
2. Keep relationships simple. (Matt. 22.36-40)
3. Keep eternal preparation simple. (Eccl. 12.13-14)

Conclusion: May we never become dissatisfied with this simplicity.