The Altar

Study Guide for “The Altar” Sermon by C. H. Spurgeon

Introduction

In this sermon, C. H. Spurgeon explores the significance of the altar in relation to worship and sacrifice, emphasizing that true acceptance before God can only be achieved through Jesus Christ, the ultimate altar. He warns against the dangers of idolatry and the misapplication of the term “altar” to various practices and objects that do not sanctify our offerings. Spurgeon calls believers to recognize the centrality of Christ in their worship and to approach God through Him alone.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding the Altar: What does Spurgeon mean when he states that “the altar sanctifies the gift”? How does this concept apply to our worship today?

  2. The Role of Christ: In what ways does Jesus serve as the altar for our offerings? How can we ensure that our prayers and actions are presented through Him?

  3. Idolatry in Worship: Spurgeon warns against the idolatry of placing reverence on physical objects or places. What are some modern examples of this tendency in our worship practices today?

  4. Personal Reflection: Have you ever found yourself trying to approach God without recognizing the importance of Christ as your mediator? How can you shift your focus back to Him in your spiritual life?

  5. Sincerity vs. Acceptance: Spurgeon argues that sincerity alone does not make our offerings acceptable to God. How can we balance sincerity in our worship with the understanding that it must be rooted in Christ?

  6. Consecration to God: Spurgeon encourages believers to renew their commitment to God. What does it mean to lay ourselves on the altar of Christ, and how can we do this practically in our daily lives?

  7. The Importance of the Cross: Reflect on Spurgeon’s assertion that the cross should not be revered as an altar. How does this perspective change your understanding of the significance of Christ’s sacrifice?

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who is our altar and mediator. Help me to recognize the importance of approaching You through Him alone. Forgive me for any times I have relied on my own efforts or the physical aspects of worship instead of resting in the sufficiency of Christ. May I offer my life as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to You, and may my prayers and actions be sanctified by His merit. Guide me to continually renew my commitment to You and to glorify You in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Similar Posts

  • A Cheerful Giver is Beloved of God

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of being a cheerful giver, as highlighted in 2 Corinthians 9:7. He explains that God values not just the act of giving, but the spirit in which it is done. A cheerful giver reflects God’s own generosity and grace, and Spurgeon encourages believers to give willingly and joyfully, recognizing that all they have is a gift from God.

  • The New Song

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon reflects on Psalm 98:1, urging believers to sing a new song to the Lord in recognition of His marvelous victories. He emphasizes the transcendent nature of God’s victory over sin, death, and Satan, highlighting that this triumph is not only undeniable but also eternal. Spurgeon calls for a recognition of God’s holiness and the ultimate victory that awaits all believers, encouraging them to embrace their identity as victorious children of God.

  • Secret Sins Driven Out by Stinging Hornets

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C. H. Spurgeon explores the concept of hidden sins within believers, likening them to the Canaanites who remained in the land despite Israel’s conquest. He emphasizes that while Christ has the rightful claim over our entire being, sin often occupies our hearts and lives. Spurgeon encourages believers to confront these hidden sins, recognizing that God uses trials and tribulations—symbolized as “hornets”—to reveal and drive out these sins, ultimately leading to spiritual growth and sanctification.

  • Heedlessness in Religion

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the life of Jehu, a king of Israel who, despite his zealous actions against idolatry, failed to truly follow the law of the Lord with his heart. Spurgeon warns against the dangers of heedlessness in our religious practices, urging believers to examine their hearts and ensure that their faith is not merely a series of impulsive actions but a genuine commitment to knowing and obeying God’s will.

  • Obtaining Promises

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon emphasizes the richness and significance of God’s promises to believers. He illustrates how faith is the key to obtaining and experiencing these promises, drawing on biblical examples such as Abraham, David, and Joshua. Spurgeon encourages Christians to actively seek and claim these promises through faith, prayer, and obedience, reminding them of the unchanging nature of God’s word and the blessings that come from trusting in Him.

  • Traveling Expenses on the Two Great Roads

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon explores the concept of the costs associated with our choices in life, particularly the spiritual journey we undertake. He emphasizes that every path we choose, whether towards sin or righteousness, comes with its own expenses. Spurgeon draws on the story of Jonah to illustrate the consequences of avoiding God’s call and the ultimate price of sin, while also highlighting the grace and provision found in Christ for those who seek Him.