Study Guide for “The Minister’s Stock-Taking”

Introduction

In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the diverse responses to the preaching of the Gospel, as illustrated in Acts 28:24. He emphasizes that true success in ministry is not measured by the number of listeners or their applause, but by the genuine belief in Christ that results from the preaching. Spurgeon challenges both ministers and congregants to consider the implications of belief and unbelief, urging a deeper understanding of the Gospel’s transformative power.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding Belief: What does it mean to truly believe in Christ, according to Spurgeon? How does this differ from merely hearing the Gospel?

  2. Personal Reflection: Reflect on your own journey of faith. Can you identify a moment when the message of the Gospel truly penetrated your heart? What was that experience like?

  3. The Role of the Minister: Spurgeon discusses the qualities of a good preacher. What characteristics do you believe are essential for a minister to effectively communicate the Gospel? How can these qualities impact the congregation’s response?

  4. The Nature of Unbelief: Why does Spurgeon argue that the responsibility for unbelief lies with the individual? How does this perspective challenge common views about faith and salvation?

  5. Emotional Responses: Spurgeon mentions that tears and emotional responses do not necessarily indicate true belief. How can we discern between genuine conviction and mere emotionalism in our own lives and in the lives of others?

  6. Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility: How does Spurgeon reconcile the concepts of God’s sovereignty in salvation and human responsibility in belief? What implications does this have for how we share the Gospel with others?

  7. Action Steps: After reflecting on the sermon, what steps can you take to deepen your own faith or to encourage others in their journey toward belief in Christ?

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of Your Word and the truth of the Gospel. Help me to understand the depth of what it means to believe in You. May I not be merely a hearer of the Word, but a doer, allowing Your truth to transform my heart and life. I pray for those around me who struggle with belief; grant them the grace to see the beauty of Christ and the hope found in Him. May Your Spirit work in me and through me to share the message of salvation with clarity and love. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

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