Holy Work for Christmas

Study Guide for “Holy Work for Christmas” Sermon

Introduction

In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the significance of Christ’s birth and encourages believers to engage in “holy work” during the Christmas season. He emphasizes four ways to serve God: by sharing the good news, marveling at God’s wonders, pondering the truths of Christ, and glorifying God in our daily lives. Spurgeon calls Christians to renew their love for Christ and to express their faith through action, worship, and contemplation.

Discussion Questions

  1. Sharing the Good News: How can you actively share the message of Christ’s birth and His love with those around you this Christmas season? What are some practical ways to do this in your daily life?

  2. Holy Wonder: Reflect on a time when you felt a deep sense of wonder about God or His works. How can cultivating a sense of wonder enhance your relationship with Christ?

  3. Pondering in Your Heart: What does it mean to you to “ponder” the truths of Christ? How can you create space in your life for contemplation and reflection on His goodness?

  4. Glorifying God in Daily Life: Spurgeon mentions that glorifying God can happen in our everyday tasks. How can you incorporate worship and praise into your daily routines, regardless of your occupation?

  5. The Role of Simplicity: Spurgeon highlights that the shepherds, though uneducated, were effective in sharing the Gospel. How does this encourage you to share your faith, regardless of your background or education?

  6. Personal Application: In what ways can you apply the four methods of holy work discussed in the sermon to your life this Christmas? Which area do you feel most challenged in?

  7. The Importance of Praise: Why do you think praising God is essential in the life of a believer? How can you make praise a more significant part of your worship this season?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we celebrate His birth, help us to engage in holy work that honors You. May we share the good news of His love, marvel at Your wonders, ponder the truths of Your Word, and glorify You in all that we do. Fill our hearts with wonder and gratitude, and empower us to live out our faith boldly. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Similar Posts

  • Vile Ingratitude!

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the profound ingratitude of believers towards God, emphasizing the grace and mercy that God has shown to us despite our sinful nature. Using the prophet Ezekiel’s words, Spurgeon urges us to consider our past, our current state, and the blessings we have received from God, all while recognizing the gravity of our sins. He calls us to a deeper understanding of our relationship with God and the importance of living in gratitude and holiness.

  • A Precious Drop of Honey

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the profound promise found in Isaiah 49:16, where God declares, “Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands.” Spurgeon emphasizes the depth of God’s love and remembrance for His people, illustrating how this promise is not only a source of comfort but also a call to recognize our identity in Christ. The sermon invites believers to marvel at the eternal and personal nature of God’s commitment to them.

  • Songs of Deliverance

    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.

  • Ezekiel’s Deserted Infant

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the profound misery of humanity as depicted in Ezekiel 16:5-6. He draws a vivid parallel between the plight of a deserted infant and the condition of mankind, emphasizing our helplessness, sinfulness, and utter need for divine grace. Spurgeon highlights that despite our loathsome state, God, in His mercy, calls us to life, illustrating the depth of His love and the power of His grace.

  • Not Now, But Hereafter!

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon addresses the misconception that earthly suffering is a direct punishment for sin, using the Book of Job to illustrate that temporal afflictions do not equate to divine judgment. He emphasizes the certainty of divine justice and the reality of eternal punishment for unrepentant sin, urging listeners to recognize the gravity of their choices and the mercy available through Christ.

  • The Panting Hart

    In this sermon, Charles H. Spurgeon reflects on Psalm 42:1, where the psalmist expresses a deep longing for God, comparing it to a hart (deer) panting for water. Spurgeon explores the dual nature of this desire—both a sign of grace and a reminder of our spiritual poverty. He emphasizes the importance of seeking God earnestly, recognizing that true fulfillment comes from a close relationship with Him, rather than from worldly pursuits or mere religious practices.