Part 1 of 5: Simplicity in our Dependence on God (Matthew 10:9-11)

Sermon on 18 October 2026 by Pastor Justin

5-part series: The Power of Simplicity

Introduction

Biblical simplicity is about focusing less on yourself and having more of God in your heart. It is not about having less, but allowing God to have more of our heart. It means living a Christ-centred life. One thing is needed - to sit at Jesus’ feet, listen to His Word, and put Him first (Luke 10:42). Have an undivided heart (Psalm 73:25). Be content with His provision (1 Timothy 6:8). Put His kingdom above worldly possessions, distractions, and ambitions (Matthew 6:33).  

Message

Provide neither gold nor silver nor copper in your money belts, nor bag for your journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor staffs; for a worker is worthy of his food. Now whatever city or town you enter, inquire who in it is worthy, and stay there till you go out. - Matthew 10:9-11

And He said to them, “When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything?” So they said, “nothing.” - Luke 22:35

The Lord is our shepherd; we lack nothing. Be faithful, regardless of circumstances. The disciples must learn to rely on the one who sends them. Jesus told them that He had given them authority over the power of the demon (Matthew 28:18; Luke 10:19). We have the authority.

1. Let go of wanting to control everything

It does not mean you do not plan. You plan, but you need to trust. Your peace and security is in Him. It is spiritually unhealthy when plans become the source of our peace (Proverbs 16:9, 3; 3:5-6). Let go of your worries and anxiety. Let go of resentment, anger, and pride. Simplicity in our dependence on God begins when we say: I entrust the result to You, Lord (Proverbs 16:3).

2. Let us trust and humble ourselves in God’s provision

Humility is required to depend on God. We need God. He will supply our needs (Philippians 4:19). Trust says - God knows what we need even before we ask (Matthew 6:8). Humility says - We are willing to receive the help He provides (James 4:6). Simplicity in our dependence on God often involves receiving His care through other people.

3. Let us remain faithful where God has placed us

In Matthew 10:11, the disciples were told to “stay there”. In Luke 22:35, the disciples said that they lacked nothing. Having been provided for, will we faithfully serve? Or will we keep looking, neglecting our calling? (1 Corinthians 4:2). Simplicity in our dependence on God begins with faithfulness in responding to God in the circumstances we have today (Matthew 25:21). Let people see the light in us.

Closing

Jesus gave instructions to the disciples, having a clear mission, simple arrangements and a focus on the work entrusted to them. The power of simplicity rests on an undivided heart, being content with His provision, and putting His kingdom above worldly possessions, distractions and ambitions.