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

  • Obedience Better Than Sacrifice

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C. H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of obedience to God’s commands over mere acts of sacrifice. Using the biblical account of Saul’s disobedience, Spurgeon calls both professing Christians and those yet to believe to reflect on their relationship with God. He urges believers to prioritize obedience to Christ’s teachings and commands, while also inviting the unconverted to trust in Jesus for salvation, highlighting that true faith is the pathway to eternal life.

  • The Bridgeless Gulf

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon addresses the stark reality of the eternal separation between the righteous and the wicked, as illustrated in Luke 16:26. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing God’s law and the impending judgment, while also proclaiming the hope found in Christ. Spurgeon urges listeners to take seriously the call to repentance and to embrace the grace offered through Jesus, for the time to respond is limited.

  • The Lord Blessing His Saints

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the profound blessing bestowed upon God’s people, as expressed in Psalm 115:15. He emphasizes that this blessing is a gift from the Lord, the Creator of heaven and earth, and is characterized by its uniqueness, certainty, and the responsibilities it entails. Spurgeon encourages believers to recognize their blessed status and to respond with gratitude and praise.

  • Helps

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C. H. Spurgeon emphasizes the vital role of “helps” within the church, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 12:28. He describes how these individuals, though not always in official positions, provide essential support to others in their spiritual journeys. Spurgeon encourages believers to actively engage in helping those who are struggling, drawing parallels to the biblical narrative of Christian in the “Slough of Despond.” He highlights the importance of compassion, understanding, and practical assistance in the lives of those in need.

  • The Amen

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon explores the profound significance of the word “Amen” as it relates to Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that Christ is the ultimate affirmation of God’s promises, purposes, and prophecies. Spurgeon illustrates how Jesus embodies the essence of truth, consent, and petition in our relationship with God, serving as the divine “Amen” to all that God has declared. Through this exploration, believers are encouraged to recognize Christ’s unwavering faithfulness and the assurance He provides in their lives.

  • Carried by Four

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the story of a paralyzed man who was brought to Jesus by four friends. Through their determination and faith, the man received both physical healing and the forgiveness of his sins. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of prayer, the need for community in bringing others to Christ, and the transformative power of Jesus to heal both body and soul.