A Prayer for the Church Militant

Study Guide for “A Prayer for the Church Militant” by C. H. Spurgeon

Introduction

In this powerful sermon, C. H. Spurgeon reflects on Psalm 28:9, emphasizing the importance of prayer for the church militant. He outlines four key petitions: to save God’s people, bless His inheritance, feed them, and lift them up forever. Spurgeon encourages believers to recognize their dependence on God for strength and salvation, and to actively participate in the spiritual nourishment and support of one another.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding Strength: How does Spurgeon describe the source of strength for believers? In what ways can you personally rely on God’s strength in your daily life?

  2. The Role of Prayer: Why does Spurgeon emphasize the importance of praying for the church? How can you incorporate intercessory prayer into your routine for the benefit of others?

  3. Spiritual Nourishment: What does it mean to “feed” God’s people spiritually? How can you ensure that you are receiving and sharing the right spiritual nourishment in your community?

  4. Unity in the Church: Spurgeon mentions the need for greater unity among believers. What are some practical steps you can take to promote unity within your church or community?

  5. Addressing Backsliders: How should we approach those who have strayed from their faith? What role does prayer play in restoring them, and how can you be an instrument of encouragement?

  6. Personal Application: Reflect on the four petitions Spurgeon outlines. Which one resonates with you the most right now, and how can you actively seek to fulfill that prayer in your life and the lives of others?

  7. Eternal Perspective: Spurgeon speaks of the ultimate lifting up of God’s people. How does this eternal perspective influence your daily challenges and interactions with others?

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
We come before You with grateful hearts, acknowledging that You are our strength and salvation. We ask that You save Your people, bless Your inheritance, feed us with Your Word, and lift us up forever. Help us to be diligent in prayer for one another and to actively support our brothers and sisters in Christ. May we seek unity, encourage the weary, and share the nourishment of Your truth. Lift our spirits and remind us of the eternal hope we have in You. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Similar Posts

  • A Singular but Necessary Question

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the profound question posed by Jesus to the impotent man at the pool of Bethesda: “Will you be made whole?” Spurgeon emphasizes that this question is not merely about a desire for salvation but probes deeper into the willingness to embrace true spiritual wholeness. He challenges listeners to consider their own hearts and desires, urging them to confront their relationship with sin and their readiness to accept the transformative power of Christ.

  • Lead Us Not Into Temptation

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon explores the profound meaning behind the prayer, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” He emphasizes the importance of recognizing our dependence on God, the nature of temptation, and the necessity of seeking divine guidance and protection. Spurgeon encourages believers to approach God with humility, acknowledging their weaknesses and the dangers of temptation, while also expressing a desire for sanctification and deliverance from evil.

  • A Cure for Care

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of casting our cares upon God, as instructed in 1 Peter 5:7. He explains that while believers face legitimate cares, many of our anxieties stem from pride and a lack of humility before God. By humbling ourselves and trusting in God’s providence, we can find peace and relief from the burdens we carry. Spurgeon encourages us to recognize that God cares for us deeply and invites us to leave our worries in His capable hands.

  • A Door Opened in Heaven

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the profound moment when the Apostle John sees a door opened in heaven, symbolizing the divine communion between God and humanity. Spurgeon emphasizes the grace of God in opening this door for mankind, contrasting it with the fate of fallen angels. He explores the implications of this open door for believers, highlighting the joy of communion with Christ, the hope of eternal life, and the assurance that our prayers and praises reach the throne of God. Ultimately, he encourages believers to embrace their relationship with Christ and look forward to the heavenly joys that await them.

  • Unto You, Young Men

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon addresses young men, emphasizing their potential for spiritual strength and usefulness in the service of Christ. He draws from 1 John 2:14, highlighting the characteristics of a model young man: strength, the abiding word of God, and victory over evil. Spurgeon encourages young men to recognize their calling, dedicate themselves to God, and actively engage in the battle against sin and temptation.