It Starts Small

Author: Kimberlee Smith

  • Embracing Holiness: Paul’s Call to Purity

    The content emphasizes the importance of believers separating themselves from worldly influences to embrace a life of holiness, guided by God’s grace. Paul highlights that transformation comes through Christ and the Holy Spirit, urging believers to actively seek God’s sanctification and reflect on their commitment to divine purpose amidst challenges…

  • The Dangers of Unequal Yoking in Relationships

    In 2 Corinthians 6, Paul emphasizes open communication and mutual affection with the Corinthians, urging them to respond equally. He explains the dangers of being unequally yoked with unbelievers, highlighting conflicts in core values and life choices. Paul stresses the need for believers to maintain their holiness and prioritize their…

  • The Call to Reconciliation: Serving God Today

    Paul writes to the Corinthian church, expressing concern that some members have not fully accepted the gospel, potentially influenced by idol worship and false teachers. He emphasizes that now is the time for repentance and urges believers to avoid receiving God’s grace in vain. Paul also addresses the challenges faced…

  • Ambassadors of Christ: Understanding Our Role in Reconciliation

    In chapter 5, Paul reveals his transformed perspective on humanity, viewing everyone as eternal beings in Christ. Salvation creates a new creation within individuals, shifting old values and priorities toward divine purposes. Despite ongoing struggles, believers gain a fresh outlook and a ministry of reconciliation, embodying Christ’s message as His…

  • The Fear of the Lord: Paul’s Perspective

    Paul addresses the Corinthians, emphasizing his sincere motives and unwavering commitment to preach the gospel despite challenges. He highlights the importance of recognizing God’s authority and the heart over outward appearances. Motivated by Christ’s love, Paul urges believers to embody true faith, live sacrificially for God, and confront false teachings.

  • Living for Eternity: Paul’s Message

    In this passage, Paul metaphorically compares our earthly bodies to tents, emphasizing their temporary nature. He encourages believers to focus on spiritual growth and eternal life rather than physical appearance. The Holy Spirit serves as a reminder of God’s promise of resurrection. Ultimately, our lives on earth prepare us for…

  • Cultivating an Eternal Perspective in Faith

    In 2 Corinthians 4, Paul emphasizes the importance of maintaining an external perspective on faith, encouraging believers to express their beliefs boldly and share the transformative message of the gospel. He underscores the significance of thanksgiving and illustrates how afflictions can renew one’s spirit, shifting focus from temporary struggles to…

  • Understanding the Gospel’s Power in Our Weakness

    In 2 Corinthians 4, Paul emphasizes the paradox of containing the gospel’s treasure in fragile clay jars, showcasing God’s power through human weakness. He encourages believers to endure persecution with love and grace, reflecting Jesus’ life. Ultimately, sacrifices for sharing the gospel yield eternal rewards despite worldly challenges.

  • Paul’s Determination: Defending the Faith

    Paul ardently defends his role as an apostle amidst criticism, focusing on the transformative power of God’s mercy. He denounces deceitful practices among some preachers, emphasizing the need for truth in sharing the gospel. Highlighting the spiritual blindness affecting many, Paul insists that faith in Jesus alone provides true understanding…

  • The Glory of the New Covenant Explained

    In 2 Corinthians 3, Paul contrasts the old covenant, termed the “ministry of death,” with the glorious new covenant of the Spirit. While the old law exposed sin and condemnation, the new covenant offers reconciliation, freedom, and life through Jesus Christ. Believers are encouraged to boldly share this transformative message.