Study Guide for “Sweet Savor” Sermon by C. H. Spurgeon
Introduction
In this powerful sermon, C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the profound truth found in Ezekiel 20:41, where God promises to accept His people with a “sweet savor.” Spurgeon emphasizes that despite the sins and shortcomings of humanity, God’s grace through Jesus Christ allows for acceptance and reconciliation. He explores the significance of Christ’s merits as the ultimate sweet savor that pleases God, and how our offerings and lives can be made acceptable through Him.
Discussion Questions
-
Understanding Acceptance: What does it mean to be accepted by God through the “sweet savor” of Christ? How does this understanding impact your view of your own worthiness?
-
The Nature of Sin: Spurgeon mentions that God observes the sins of His people closely. How does this awareness of sin shape our relationship with God? How can we balance this with the assurance of His grace?
-
The Role of Christ’s Suffering: How does the suffering of Christ contribute to the “sweet savor” that God accepts? In what ways can we find comfort in His suffering when we face our own trials?
-
Offering Our Lives: Spurgeon encourages believers to offer their lives as a sweet savor to God. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your daily actions and offerings are pleasing to Him?
-
The Importance of Holiness: Reflect on the idea that our offerings must be made with pure motives and according to God’s ordained methods. How can we ensure that our worship and service are aligned with God’s desires?
-
Experiencing Grace: Spurgeon speaks of the overwhelming grace of God that accepts us despite our imperfections. How can we cultivate a deeper appreciation for this grace in our daily lives?
-
Living as a Sweet Savor: What does it look like to live as a “sweet savor” in your community? How can your actions reflect the love and grace of Christ to those around you?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the sweet savor of Christ that makes us acceptable in Your sight. Help us to grasp the depth of Your grace and to live in a way that honors You. May our lives be a reflection of Your love and mercy, and may we continually offer our hearts and actions as a sweet aroma to You. Teach us to rely on the merits of Jesus in all that we do, and empower us to be vessels of Your grace in the world. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
