Pleading

Study Guide for “Pleading” Sermon by C. H. Spurgeon

Introduction

In this powerful sermon, C. H. Spurgeon explores the essence of prayer through the lens of Psalm 70:5, where the psalmist David expresses his deep need for God. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of confession, urgency, and the act of pleading with God, illustrating how a humble acknowledgment of our spiritual poverty opens the door to divine help and deliverance. He encourages believers to grasp hold of God in prayer, using their needs as a plea for His mercy and grace.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding Confession: Why is confession an essential part of prayer according to Spurgeon? How can acknowledging our weaknesses and sins lead to a deeper relationship with God?

  2. The Nature of Urgency: Spurgeon speaks of the urgency in prayer. Reflect on a time when you felt a deep urgency in your prayers. What was the situation, and how did it affect your approach to God?

  3. Pleading with God: What does it mean to “plead” with God in prayer? How can we incorporate this practice into our own prayer lives?

  4. God’s Attributes as Pleas: Spurgeon mentions using God’s attributes as reasons for our requests. How can understanding God’s nature (e.g., His mercy, faithfulness, and love) strengthen our prayers?

  5. The Role of Faith: How does faith influence our ability to pray effectively? In what ways can we strengthen our faith to enhance our prayer life?

  6. Personal Application: In what areas of your life do you feel “poor and needy”? How can you bring these specific needs before God in prayer?

  7. Community Prayer: Spurgeon emphasizes the need for the church to collectively acknowledge its need for God. How can your church community practice this together, and what impact might it have on your collective spiritual life?

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
I come before You acknowledging my poverty and need. I confess my sins and shortcomings, recognizing that I cannot stand before You without Your grace. Help me to be urgent in my prayers, to plead with You boldly, and to grasp hold of Your promises. May I always remember that my need is my claim to Your mercy. Fill me with faith as I seek You, and may I experience Your help and deliverance in my life. I ask this in the name of Jesus, my Savior. Amen.

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