The Ravens’ Cry

Study Guide for “The Ravens’ Cry” Sermon

Introduction

In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon draws on the imagery of young ravens crying out for food to illustrate God’s care and provision for His creation. He emphasizes that if God hears the cries of these seemingly insignificant birds, He will certainly hear the cries of His children, who are made in His image. Spurgeon encourages those who feel lost or burdened by sin to persist in prayer, reminding them of God’s mercy and willingness to forgive.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding God’s Care: How does the analogy of God providing for the ravens help you understand His care for you in your own life? Can you recall a time when you felt God’s provision in a difficult situation?

  2. The Nature of Prayer: Spurgeon mentions that the cries of young ravens are instinctual and lack articulate speech. How does this contrast with the way we can express our needs to God? What does this say about the importance of sincerity in prayer?

  3. The Weight of Sin: Reflect on Spurgeon’s assertion that our sinfulness can make us feel unworthy of God’s attention. How can we reconcile our feelings of unworthiness with the truth of God’s grace and mercy?

  4. Perseverance in Prayer: Spurgeon encourages us to “cry on” even when we feel unheard. What does it mean to you to persevere in prayer? How can you cultivate a more persistent prayer life?

  5. The Role of the Holy Spirit: Spurgeon emphasizes that true prayer is a work of the Holy Spirit within us. How can you be more aware of the Holy Spirit’s role in your prayer life? What steps can you take to invite the Holy Spirit into your prayers?

  6. God’s Promises: Spurgeon cites various biblical promises that invite us to call on God. Which of these promises resonates with you the most, and how can you apply it to your current circumstances?

  7. Faith and Assurance: Spurgeon concludes by encouraging us to trust in God’s Word for assurance of our salvation. How can you strengthen your faith in God’s promises, especially during times of doubt or uncertainty?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unwavering love and care for all of Your creation. Help me to remember that if You provide for the ravens, You will surely provide for me. Teach me to cry out to You with sincerity and persistence, trusting in Your mercy and grace. May Your Holy Spirit guide my prayers and strengthen my faith. I ask for the courage to believe in Your promises and to seek You wholeheartedly. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Similar Posts

  • Encourage Your Minister

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of encouragement within the Christian community, particularly for ministers who bear the weight of spiritual leadership. Drawing from the story of Moses and Joshua, Spurgeon illustrates how God cares for His servants and desires them to be filled with courage. He urges believers to support one another, especially their ministers, as they navigate the challenges of faith and service.

  • Early and Late, or Horae Gratiae

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon explores the parable of the laborers in the vineyard from Matthew 20:1-6. He emphasizes the grace of God in calling individuals to His service at different stages of life, highlighting that all are called by grace, regardless of when they enter the vineyard. Spurgeon encourages believers to recognize the importance of their calling and to serve the Master wholeheartedly, regardless of when they begin their journey of faith.

  • Cheer for the Faint-Hearted

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon explores the theme of faith amidst doubt and despair, drawing from the story of Manoah and his wife in Judges 13:23. He emphasizes that even the strongest believers can experience moments of wavering faith, especially after times of joy. Spurgeon encourages Christians to support one another in their struggles and to remember God’s past faithfulness and promises as a source of strength and hope.

  • Serving the Lord

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of serving the Lord with both diligence in our daily tasks and fervency in our spiritual lives. He outlines the essentials of true service to God, the various ways we can serve Him, and the commendation that comes from such service. Spurgeon calls believers to reflect on their commitment to God and to actively engage in serving Him in every aspect of their lives.

  • Faith’s Dawn and Its Clouds

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C. H. Spurgeon explores the complex relationship between faith and unbelief through the poignant story of a father seeking healing for his son. The father’s heartfelt cry, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief,” encapsulates the struggle many face in their spiritual journey. Spurgeon emphasizes that true faith can coexist with doubt and that it is essential to seek Christ’s help in overcoming our unbelief.

  • The Voice of the Cholera

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon addresses the cholera outbreak in London as a divine call to repentance and reflection. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing God’s hand in national calamities and urges the congregation to examine their lives and the collective sins of society. Spurgeon encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, acknowledging that true healing comes from both spiritual and physical cleanliness.