God’s Will and Man’s Will

Study Guide for “God’s Will and Man’s Will”

Introduction

In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon explores the complex relationship between God’s sovereignty and human responsibility in the context of salvation. He emphasizes that salvation is ultimately dependent on God’s will and mercy, rather than human effort or desire. Spurgeon argues that while God’s will is paramount, human will also plays a significant role in the acceptance of salvation, inviting believers to understand the harmony between these two truths.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding Sovereignty and Responsibility: How do you reconcile the concepts of God’s sovereignty and human responsibility in your own faith journey? Can you identify moments where you felt God’s will was evident in your life?

  2. The Role of God’s Will: Reflect on the statement, “It is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.” What does this mean for your understanding of salvation? How does it affect your view of your own efforts in seeking God?

  3. Human Nature and Salvation: Spurgeon mentions that man is spiritually dead and cannot will what is good without God’s intervention. How does this perspective shape your understanding of the necessity of grace in your life?

  4. Experiencing God’s Grace: Have you experienced a moment where you felt God’s grace change your will or desires? How did that experience impact your relationship with Him?

  5. The Invitation to Come: The sermon emphasizes the invitation, “Whosoever will, let him come.” How does this invitation resonate with you personally? What does it mean to you to be invited to take the water of life freely?

  6. The Assurance of Salvation: Spurgeon asserts that a willingness to come to Christ is a sign of God’s work in a person’s heart. How does this assurance influence your confidence in your own salvation and in sharing the gospel with others?

  7. Practical Application: In what ways can you actively respond to God’s will in your daily life? What steps can you take to ensure that you are aligning your will with His?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your sovereign will and the mercy You have shown me through Christ. Help me to understand the balance between Your will and my own. May I recognize the moments when You are working in my heart, drawing me closer to You. I ask for the strength to respond to Your invitation and to trust in Your grace. Guide me in aligning my desires with Your purpose, and let me be a vessel of Your love to others. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Similar Posts

  • The Greatest Trial on Record

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the trial of Jesus Christ, highlighting the mockery, suffering, and injustice He endured at the hands of religious and political leaders. Spurgeon emphasizes the significance of Christ’s silence and self-control amidst provocation, illustrating His divine nature and the fulfillment of prophecy. The sermon calls listeners to consider their own stance towards Christ, urging them to accept Him as their Savior and King.

  • The Cripple at Lystra

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon recounts the miraculous healing of a crippled man in Lystra through the faith he had while listening to the Apostle Paul preach the Gospel. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of the Gospel message, which is relevant to all people, regardless of their background or understanding. He explores the nature of faith, the significance of the miracle, and the transformative power of believing in Christ.

  • Apostolic Exhortation

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C. H. Spurgeon emphasizes the urgent call to repentance and conversion as essential steps for receiving forgiveness and experiencing the refreshing presence of the Lord. Drawing from Peter’s address to the crowd after the healing of a lame man, Spurgeon highlights the importance of focusing on Christ, the necessity of personal accountability for sin, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the process of salvation.

  • Travailing for Souls

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of spiritual travail for the growth of the church and the salvation of souls. Drawing from the biblical text in Isaiah 66:8, he illustrates how deep yearning and earnest prayer among God’s people precede divine blessings and conversions. Spurgeon encourages believers to engage in heartfelt intercession for the lost, highlighting that true spiritual fruitfulness is born out of a compassionate and agonizing desire for souls.

  • Household Salvation

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the powerful story of the Philippian jailer and his household, emphasizing the importance of family in the journey of faith. He illustrates how God often uses one individual to bring an entire household to salvation, highlighting the significance of hearing the Word of God, believing in Christ, and the joy that comes from being united in faith. Spurgeon encourages believers to actively seek the salvation of their families and to rejoice in the blessings of faith together.

  • Judgment Threatening But Mercy Sparing

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the parable of the barren fig tree from Luke 13:7-8, emphasizing the tension between God’s judgment and His mercy. Spurgeon warns that while judgment is justly deserved for those who live without repentance, God’s mercy offers a chance for redemption. He urges listeners to recognize their spiritual barrenness and the urgency of turning to Christ before it is too late.