Seeing and Not Seeing, or Men as Trees Walking

Study Guide for “Seeing and Not Seeing, or Men as Trees Walking”

Introduction

In this sermon, C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the healing of a blind man by Jesus, as recorded in Mark 8:22-25. He emphasizes the significance of the gradual healing process, illustrating how it mirrors the spiritual journey of believers who may initially see only dimly. Spurgeon encourages listeners to seek a deeper understanding of Christ and His teachings, recognizing that spiritual sight is a progressive journey that leads to clarity and fullness in faith.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding Spiritual Blindness: How does Spurgeon describe the condition of spiritual blindness? In what ways do you see this condition reflected in your own life or in those around you?

  2. The Role of Friends: The blind man was brought to Jesus by his friends. How can we be like these friends in our own lives? What practical steps can we take to help others encounter Christ?

  3. Gradual Healing: Spurgeon discusses the gradual nature of the blind man’s healing. How does this concept apply to your spiritual growth? Are there areas in your life where you feel you are experiencing gradual illumination?

  4. Seeing Men as Trees: What does it mean to “see men as trees walking”? How can this metaphor help us understand the challenges of spiritual perception and discernment in our lives?

  5. Desire for Clarity: Spurgeon urges believers not to be satisfied with partial sight. What steps can you take to cultivate a deeper desire for spiritual clarity and understanding in your relationship with Christ?

  6. The Importance of Looking Up: Why does Spurgeon emphasize the need to “look up” for spiritual insight? How can you incorporate this practice into your daily life?

  7. Praying for Sight: Reflect on the prayer Spurgeon encourages at the end of the sermon. How can you make this prayer a part of your spiritual routine, and what specific areas do you want to ask God to illuminate for you?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I come before You with a humble heart, recognizing my need for Your light and guidance. I ask that You open my eyes to see the truth of Your Word and the beauty of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help me to move beyond partial understanding and to seek a deeper relationship with You. May I be like the blind man who, though he saw men as trees, longed for clarity. Remove any spiritual blindness from my heart and mind, and lead me into the fullness of Your truth. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Similar Posts

  • Study Guide for the Sermon on Humility

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon explores the profound concept of humility as it relates to serving the Lord. He emphasizes that true humility is comprehensive, encompassing our thoughts and actions before, during, and after serving God. Spurgeon warns against the dangers of pride that can arise from our abilities, successes, and even our struggles. Ultimately, he calls us to reflect on our own unworthiness and the grace of God, urging us to embody humility in our daily lives.

  • Christ’s First and Last Subject

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon emphasizes the centrality of repentance in the ministry of Jesus Christ. He highlights that repentance was the first message Jesus preached and the last command He gave to His disciples. Spurgeon explores the origin, essentials, companions, and excellencies of true repentance, illustrating its vital role in the believer’s life and relationship with God.

  • Constancy and Inconstancy—A Contrast

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon contrasts the unwavering faithfulness of God with the fickleness of human nature. Using the imagery from Hosea, he illustrates how true believers experience God’s steadfast love, while those who merely profess faith often fall away like morning clouds or early dew. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of recognizing our need for God’s grace and the dangers of superficial faith.

  • Temptations on the Pinnacle

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C. H. Spurgeon explores the profound truth that Jesus faced temptations similar to those we encounter in our own lives. He emphasizes that these trials are not only a part of the Christian experience but also serve to deepen our understanding of Christ’s suffering and victory. Spurgeon encourages believers to recognize the dangers of temptation, especially when in positions of influence or spiritual elevation, and to rely on God’s grace to overcome.

  • The Lord’s Care of His People

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon reflects on God’s profound love and care for His people, as illustrated in Zechariah 2:8. He emphasizes that God’s esteem for His people is akin to the way we protect the apple of our eye. Through historical examples, Spurgeon highlights God’s faithfulness to Israel and draws parallels to the Church today, assuring believers of their safety and value in God’s eyes. The sermon encourages us to recognize our worth as God’s children and to trust in His protection and providence.

  • Reigning Grace

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon delivered by Rev. C. H. Spurgeon, the theme of grace reigning through righteousness unto eternal life is explored through vivid imagery and profound truths. Spurgeon contrasts the tyrannical reign of sin, which leads to death, with the liberating and transformative reign of grace, which brings life and hope through Jesus Christ. The sermon invites listeners to reflect on the overwhelming goodness of God’s grace and its ability to redeem, restore, and empower believers in their journey of faith.