God’s Will and Man’s Will

Study Guide for “God’s Will and Man’s Will”

Introduction

In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon explores the complex relationship between God’s sovereignty and human responsibility in the context of salvation. He emphasizes that salvation is ultimately dependent on God’s will and mercy, rather than human effort or desire. Spurgeon argues that while God’s will is paramount, human will also plays a significant role in the acceptance of salvation, inviting believers to understand the harmony between these two truths.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding Sovereignty and Responsibility: How do you reconcile the concepts of God’s sovereignty and human responsibility in your own faith journey? Can you identify moments where you felt God’s will was evident in your life?

  2. The Role of God’s Will: Reflect on the statement, “It is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.” What does this mean for your understanding of salvation? How does it affect your view of your own efforts in seeking God?

  3. Human Nature and Salvation: Spurgeon mentions that man is spiritually dead and cannot will what is good without God’s intervention. How does this perspective shape your understanding of the necessity of grace in your life?

  4. Experiencing God’s Grace: Have you experienced a moment where you felt God’s grace change your will or desires? How did that experience impact your relationship with Him?

  5. The Invitation to Come: The sermon emphasizes the invitation, “Whosoever will, let him come.” How does this invitation resonate with you personally? What does it mean to you to be invited to take the water of life freely?

  6. The Assurance of Salvation: Spurgeon asserts that a willingness to come to Christ is a sign of God’s work in a person’s heart. How does this assurance influence your confidence in your own salvation and in sharing the gospel with others?

  7. Practical Application: In what ways can you actively respond to God’s will in your daily life? What steps can you take to ensure that you are aligning your will with His?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your sovereign will and the mercy You have shown me through Christ. Help me to understand the balance between Your will and my own. May I recognize the moments when You are working in my heart, drawing me closer to You. I ask for the strength to respond to Your invitation and to trust in Your grace. Guide me in aligning my desires with Your purpose, and let me be a vessel of Your love to others. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Similar Posts

  • Tender Words of Terrible Apprehension

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon addresses the grave topic of forgetting God and the consequences that follow. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing God’s majesty, mercy, and justice, urging listeners to reflect on their relationship with Him. Spurgeon reminds us that while the message of judgment may be uncomfortable, it is essential for our spiritual awakening and repentance.

  • Children Brought to Christ, Not to the Font

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon explores the biblical passage from Mark 10:13-16, where Jesus expresses His displeasure with His disciples for hindering children from coming to Him. Spurgeon emphasizes that the act of bringing children to Christ is not about baptism but about seeking His blessing and grace. He argues that faith, not ritual, is the key to entering the Kingdom of God, and he encourages believers to actively bring others, especially children, to Christ through prayer and teaching.

  • Christus et Ego

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C. H. Spurgeon explores the profound truth of personal identity in Christ as expressed in Galatians 2:20. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing our individuality in our relationship with Jesus, the interweaving of our lives with His, and the transformative nature of living a life rooted in faith. Spurgeon calls believers to embrace their personal responsibility in faith and service, highlighting that true Christianity is not a collective identity but a deeply personal one.

  • The Centurion’s Faith and Humility

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C. H. Spurgeon explores the profound faith and humility of the centurion who sought healing for his servant. Despite his high position as a Roman officer, the centurion recognized his unworthiness before Christ, demonstrating that true faith is often accompanied by deep humility. Spurgeon emphasizes that our worthiness does not determine Christ’s ability or willingness to save us, and he encourages believers to trust in Christ’s power and grace, regardless of their circumstances.

  • Overwhelming Obligations

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the profound question posed in Psalm 116:12, “What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me?” He invites listeners to consider the countless blessings and mercies God has bestowed upon them, both in their temporal lives and in their spiritual journeys. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of gratitude and the need for a heartfelt response to God’s overwhelming goodness.

  • A Sermon for Gleaners

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon draws upon the biblical story of Ruth and Boaz to illustrate the themes of grace, humility, and the generosity of God. He emphasizes that just as Ruth was welcomed to glean in Boaz’s fields, so too are we invited to receive God’s grace, regardless of our past or present circumstances. Spurgeon encourages believers to be generous and compassionate towards those in need, reflecting the heart of Christ in our interactions with others.