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Jan 11, 2026

Simplicity and Sincerity

Preacher: Steve Lombardo

Series:Unfiltered

Detail:

Big Idea:
The true boast of Christian ministry is not charisma, success, or public approval, but a life and ministry shaped by God’s grace.

Paul’s life and ministry give us a template for what should truly fire us up in the church.

“For our boast is this, the testimony of our conscience…” (1:12)

What Should the Church Boast In?

1.  Simplicity of Life (v. 12a)
     “that we behaved in the world with simplicity…”

2.  Sincerity of Ministry (v. 12b)
     “and godly sincerity…”

3.  Sufficiency of God’s Grace (v. 12c–14)
     “not by earthly wisdom but by the grace of God…”

Why the Rest of the Passage Matters (1:15–2:4)
The remainder of the section isn’t a tangent.
It’s Paul defending the integrity of simplicity, sincerity, and sufficiency
     • His plans were principled.
     • His postponement was pastoral.
     • His pain was personal.