Study Guide for “Chastisement—Now and Afterwards”

Introduction

In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon explores the theme of divine chastisement and its purpose in the life of a believer. He emphasizes that while afflictions may seem grievous and painful in the present, they ultimately yield the peaceable fruit of righteousness. Spurgeon distinguishes between justification and sanctification, highlighting how trials serve to purify and strengthen our faith, making us more like Christ. The sermon encourages believers to embrace their trials as opportunities for growth and to trust in God’s loving purpose behind their suffering.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding Chastisement: How do you personally perceive the concept of chastisement in your life? Do you view it as a punishment or as a means of growth? Why?

  2. Faith vs. Reason: Spurgeon mentions that our carnal reason often misjudges the nature of our afflictions. In what ways have you experienced this in your own life? How can faith help us see beyond our immediate circumstances?

  3. The Role of the Holy Spirit: How does the Holy Spirit play a role in transforming our trials into opportunities for spiritual growth? Can you share a time when you felt the Holy Spirit guiding you through a difficult situation?

  4. The Fruit of Righteousness: What does it mean to you to bear the “peaceable fruit of righteousness”? How can you actively seek to cultivate this fruit in your life, especially during times of trial?

  5. Embracing Trials: Spurgeon encourages believers to be “exercised” by their afflictions. What practical steps can you take to embrace your trials and allow them to strengthen your faith?

  6. Looking Forward: The sermon emphasizes the importance of the “nevertheless afterwards.” How can focusing on the future hope in Christ change your perspective on current struggles?

  7. Sharing Experiences: Have you witnessed or experienced a situation where a trial led to unexpected blessings or growth? How can sharing these experiences encourage others in their faith journey?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your loving discipline in our lives. Help us to see our trials not as burdens, but as opportunities for growth and deeper faith. Teach us to trust in Your perfect plan, even when we cannot understand our circumstances. May we bear the peaceable fruit of righteousness and be exercised by our afflictions, growing closer to You through every challenge. Grant us the grace to look forward to the “nevertheless afterwards” with hope and joy. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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