Introduction
In this sermon, Rev. C.H. Spurgeon explores the concept of building battlements that are not of the Lord, and how God may allow these battlements to be taken away. He applies this concept to the church, individual Christians, young converts, and the ungodly. The sermon challenges readers to examine their own lives and consider what battlements they may be relying on that are not of the Lord.
Discussion Questions
- What are some examples of battlements that the church may build that are not of the Lord? How can these battlements hinder the church’s reliance on God?
- Have you ever relied on something other than God for your security or salvation? How did that affect your relationship with God?
- How can past experiences or good works become battlements that we rely on instead of relying on God’s grace?
- What are some common battlements that young converts may build? How can these hinder their growth in faith?
- How do the ungodly build battlements for themselves? What are some examples of these battlements?
- How does the concept of battlements relate to the idea of self-sufficiency? How can self-sufficiency hinder our reliance on God?
- How does the concept of battlements challenge us to examine our own lives and consider what we are relying on instead of God?
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before you today and acknowledge that we often build battlements that are not of you. We rely on our own strength, the love of the creature, past experiences, and good works instead of relying on your grace and mercy. We confess that we have often trusted in ourselves instead of trusting in you. We ask for your forgiveness and for your help in tearing down these battlements. Help us to rely solely on you and to trust in your promises. Give us the wisdom to recognize when we are building battlements that are not of you, and the strength to tear them down. We pray that you would be our only joy and our only hope. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
