Alive or Dead — Which?

Study Guide for “Alive or Dead — Which?”

Introduction

In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon explores the profound truth found in 1 John 5:12: “He that has the Son has life; and he that has not the Son of God has not life.” Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of possessing faith in Jesus Christ as the source of spiritual and eternal life. He contrasts the living, who have received Christ and exhibit the fruits of faith, with the spiritually dead, who remain in condemnation due to their unbelief. The sermon encourages believers to reflect on their relationship with Christ and to actively engage in sharing the gospel with those who are spiritually dead.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding Life in Christ: What does it mean to “have the Son” in your own life? How does this relationship manifest in your daily actions and thoughts?

  2. Faith as Evidence of Life: Spurgeon states that faith is a living act. How does your faith in Jesus Christ serve as evidence of your spiritual life? Can you identify moments when your faith has been particularly evident?

  3. The Role of Repentance: How does repentance accompany faith in your spiritual journey? In what ways have you experienced the need for repentance, and how has it deepened your relationship with Christ?

  4. Prayer and Spiritual Life: Spurgeon mentions that prayer is the breath of the soul. How does your prayer life reflect your spiritual vitality? What challenges do you face in maintaining a consistent prayer life?

  5. Engaging with the Spiritually Dead: Spurgeon urges believers to engage with those who are spiritually dead. What practical steps can you take to share the gospel with those around you? How can you do this while maintaining your spiritual integrity?

  6. The Assurance of Salvation: Reflect on Spurgeon’s assertion that “He that has the Son has life.” How does this assurance impact your confidence in your salvation? What doubts or fears do you need to surrender to God?

  7. Living Among the Dead: How can you remain spiritually alive while living in a world filled with spiritual death? What boundaries or practices can you implement to protect your faith?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who is our source of life. Help me to fully embrace the truth that having Him means I have eternal life. Strengthen my faith and guide me in my journey of repentance and prayer. May I be a light to those around me who are spiritually dead, sharing the hope of the gospel with love and compassion. Help me to remain steadfast in my faith, even amidst the challenges of this world. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

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