Too often, small churches carry a sense of shame or inferiority to their larger neighbors. Yet throughout scripture, God values what is small. This four week stewardship sermon series encourages a “little flock” to continue in the small, humble, holy work that is uniquely theirs to do.
It’s the Little Things Series Outline
Week 1: Bread Crumbs and Bravery
Scripture: John 6:1-15
The miracle portion of this scripture is so familiar that we often overlook the disciples’ predicament. When a crowd of thousands approaches them, Jesus asks them to provide food. Andrew, who is apparently a good accountant, exclaims that there is not enough money to buy so much food. He has not, though, accounted for Jesus, who is able to take the small offering of a small boy and multiply it to feed the thousands. Small churches often find themselves in Andrew’s predicament, feeling overwhelmed and under-resourced. However, when we each offer what we are able to, Jesus still does miracles through small churches.
Week 2: Sparrows and Sustenance
Scripture: Luke 12:22-32
In this famous passage, Jesus speaks tenderly to his disciples about God’s sustaining care. The examples he names–sparrows, ravens and lilies–are not particularly rare or impressive examples of flora and fauna. Yet, Jesus insists, God delights in them and gives them what they need. Jesus expresses here a “theology of sustenance”–that in God’s economy and environment, all of creation has just enough of what it needs. In small churches (“sparrow churches”), we know the value of living with just enough, and in having to seek out God’s goodness anew each day. Small churches foster a full reliance on God and are showcases for God’s generosity.
Week 3: Coins and Constancy
Scripture: Mark 12:38-44
In this miniature scene from Mark’s gospel, Jesus draws his disciples’ attention to a contrast: the rich people who make large donations are actually only giving a little, while the poor widow who drops in two tiny coins gives everything she has. Only Jesus sees the enormity of her gift, which he calls her “ton bion”–her whole life. Many small congregations do not have large, flashy ministries that beget impressive statistics or extensive publicity. However, we are practiced at giving our whole life away–to God, to our communities, and to each other. How can you help your congregation see that Jesus celebrates what others dismiss as small?
Week 4: Heaven in Hiding
Scripture: Matthew 13:31-35
In this pair of playful parables, Jesus compares the kingdom of God to two tiny objects that do their work while in hiding–a mustard seed that hides in the dirt of a field, but grows a riotous plant; and yeast, which a woman “hides” in dough, which grows it into a batch of bread of incredible proportions. Most of us are drawn to large, impressive, public displays of power; but for whatever reason, God’s kingdom does its work while in hiding. As a small church, we may often feel hidden away and unnoticed, but our very smallness may be what best enables us to follow God’s values. Small churches often excel at personal, relational ministry, at answering community needs in a nimble and flexible way, and at sustaining our work without worldly acclaim. How can you help your church see itself as a seed for the very kingdom of God?
Ministry Resources
It’s the Little Things Liturgy, including
It’s the Little Things Stewardship Resources
- It’s the Little Things Graphic (editable Canva template)
- Example Pledge Card (editable Canva template)
- Example Stewardship Letter
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