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.

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