Seeing and Not Seeing, or Men as Trees Walking

Study Guide for “Seeing and Not Seeing, or Men as Trees Walking”

Introduction

In this sermon, C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the healing of a blind man by Jesus, as recorded in Mark 8:22-25. He emphasizes the significance of the gradual healing process, illustrating how it mirrors the spiritual journey of believers who may initially see only dimly. Spurgeon encourages listeners to seek a deeper understanding of Christ and His teachings, recognizing that spiritual sight is a progressive journey that leads to clarity and fullness in faith.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding Spiritual Blindness: How does Spurgeon describe the condition of spiritual blindness? In what ways do you see this condition reflected in your own life or in those around you?

  2. The Role of Friends: The blind man was brought to Jesus by his friends. How can we be like these friends in our own lives? What practical steps can we take to help others encounter Christ?

  3. Gradual Healing: Spurgeon discusses the gradual nature of the blind man’s healing. How does this concept apply to your spiritual growth? Are there areas in your life where you feel you are experiencing gradual illumination?

  4. Seeing Men as Trees: What does it mean to “see men as trees walking”? How can this metaphor help us understand the challenges of spiritual perception and discernment in our lives?

  5. Desire for Clarity: Spurgeon urges believers not to be satisfied with partial sight. What steps can you take to cultivate a deeper desire for spiritual clarity and understanding in your relationship with Christ?

  6. The Importance of Looking Up: Why does Spurgeon emphasize the need to “look up” for spiritual insight? How can you incorporate this practice into your daily life?

  7. Praying for Sight: Reflect on the prayer Spurgeon encourages at the end of the sermon. How can you make this prayer a part of your spiritual routine, and what specific areas do you want to ask God to illuminate for you?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I come before You with a humble heart, recognizing my need for Your light and guidance. I ask that You open my eyes to see the truth of Your Word and the beauty of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help me to move beyond partial understanding and to seek a deeper relationship with You. May I be like the blind man who, though he saw men as trees, longed for clarity. Remove any spiritual blindness from my heart and mind, and lead me into the fullness of Your truth. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Similar Posts

  • Citizenship in Heaven

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon emphasizes the profound truth that as Christians, our true citizenship lies in heaven, not on earth. He calls believers to live in a way that reflects their heavenly identity, contrasting the life of a saint with that of the world. Spurgeon encourages Christians to embrace their privileges as citizens of heaven while fulfilling their duties as aliens on earth, all while eagerly awaiting the return of Christ.

  • Jesus and the Lambs

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon beautifully illustrates the tender care of Jesus Christ for His followers, likening them to lambs. He emphasizes that Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, gathers the weak, the young, and the timid, carrying them close to His heart. Spurgeon encourages believers to reflect on their own weaknesses and the grace of Christ that meets them in their struggles, reminding us that all are precious in His sight.

  • Grace Abounding

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon expounds on the profound truth found in Hosea 14:4, “I will love them freely.” He emphasizes that God’s love is given without conditions, merit, or prior worthiness. Spurgeon illustrates how God’s grace is freely bestowed upon all, regardless of their past or present state, and encourages listeners to embrace this unconditional love.

  • Prepare to Meet Your God

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon calls us to reflect on the profound truth of preparing to meet God. Drawing from Amos 4:12, he emphasizes the seriousness of our relationship with God, the consequences of our rebellion, and the joy of communion with Him. Spurgeon explores the different tones of the call to prepare, the heavy tidings for the ungodly, and the weighty admonition to seek reconciliation with God through Christ.

  • Forward! Forward! Forward!

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon draws from Exodus 14:15 to emphasize the importance of action in the life of faith. He reminds us that while prayer is vital, there are moments when God calls us to move forward in faith and obedience. Spurgeon encourages believers to trust in God’s promises and to take bold steps toward their spiritual goals, regardless of the obstacles they face.

  • A Promise for Us and for Our Children

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon reflects on God’s unwavering promise to His people, emphasizing that despite our shortcomings and failures, God remains faithful and loving. He reassures us that even in our spiritual dryness, God will pour out His Spirit upon us and our children, revitalizing our faith and ensuring the continuation of His blessings through generations. The sermon encourages believers to remember God’s past faithfulness, to seek His help, and to pray fervently for their children.