Study Guide for “Joseph’s Bones” Sermon by C. H. Spurgeon
Introduction
In this sermon, C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the profound faith of Joseph as demonstrated in his dying command regarding his bones. Spurgeon emphasizes that true faith often manifests in unexpected ways, highlighting Joseph’s refusal to be buried in Egypt until God’s promise to his people was fulfilled. This act symbolizes Joseph’s unwavering trust in God’s covenant and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith in our lives, especially in the face of death and uncertainty.
Discussion Questions
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Understanding Faith: Why do you think the Holy Spirit chose to highlight Joseph’s command about his bones as the pinnacle of his faith? What does this teach us about how God values our actions?
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Faith in Prosperity: Joseph maintained his faith despite his high status and wealth in Egypt. How can we apply Joseph’s example to our own lives, especially when faced with the temptations of prosperity?
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Facing Death: Joseph’s calmness in the face of death is striking. How can we cultivate a similar peace and confidence in God’s promises as we approach our own mortality or the mortality of loved ones?
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Waiting on God: Joseph’s decision to wait for his bones to be buried in Canaan reflects a deep trust in God’s timing. What are some areas in your life where you struggle to wait on God? How can you practice patience in those situations?
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Encouraging Others: Joseph’s bones served as a reminder to the Israelites of God’s promise. In what ways can we encourage the faith of others in our community, especially during difficult times?
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Identifying with God’s People: Joseph chose to identify with the Israelites rather than the Egyptians. How does our identity as Christians shape our relationships and interactions with the world around us?
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Living with Purpose: Spurgeon mentions that our last act should be a triumph of faith. How can we ensure that our lives reflect our faith in God, not just in our final moments, but throughout our daily lives?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Joseph and his unwavering faith in Your promises. Help me to trust in Your timing and to remain steadfast in my faith, even in the face of life’s challenges. May I encourage others in their faith journey and live a life that reflects Your goodness and grace. As I contemplate my own mortality, grant me peace and assurance in Your covenant. I pray that my last act will be a testament to my faith in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
