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.

Similar Posts

  • 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.

  • God’s Witnesses

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the role of believers as witnesses for God, drawing parallels between the ancient Israelites and modern Christians. He highlights the importance of testifying to God’s faithfulness, the power of prayer, and the transformative nature of the Gospel. Spurgeon encourages believers to boldly share their experiences and the truth of God’s word, reminding them that they are not alone in their witness, as Christ stands with them.

  • Portraits of Christ

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon explores the profound truth that believers are predestined to be conformed to the image of Christ. He emphasizes that true imitation of Christ is not a mere external mimicry but a deep transformation of character, love, and devotion. Spurgeon encourages believers to embrace their calling to reflect Christ’s humility, service, and suffering, ultimately leading to glory.

  • Songs of Deliverance

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the theme of deliverance as illustrated in Judges 5:11. He draws parallels between the deliverance experienced by the Israelites and the greater salvation offered through Jesus Christ. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of gratitude, the joy of worship, and the freedom that comes from being liberated from sin and fear. He encourages believers to share their testimonies of God’s goodness and to actively engage in the mission of spreading the Gospel.

  • The Royal Pair in Their Glorious Chariot

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon explores the imagery of King Solomon’s chariot as a representation of Christ and His Church journeying through the world. He emphasizes the hidden yet powerful presence of Christ, the security of His Church amidst trials, and the glorious attributes of the gospel. Spurgeon encourages believers to recognize their role in the Church and to actively seek a deeper relationship with Christ, who is both their King and Savior.