The Arrows of the Lord’s Deliverance

Study Guide for “The Arrows of the Lord’s Deliverance”

Introduction

In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the significance of faith and action in the life of a believer, using the story of King Joash and the prophet Elisha as a backdrop. Spurgeon emphasizes that while God is the ultimate source of deliverance, He often works through human agency. The sermon challenges listeners to examine their own faith and commitment, urging them to strive for greater spiritual victories rather than settling for mediocrity.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding Deliverance: How does the story of Joash and Elisha illustrate the relationship between divine power and human action? In what ways can we apply this understanding to our own lives?

  2. Faith and Action: Spurgeon criticizes Joash for only striking the ground three times. What does this teach us about the importance of persistence in our faith and actions? Are there areas in your life where you feel you have not fully committed?

  3. Personal Reflection: Reflect on your own spiritual journey. Are there times when you have been content with “just enough” faith or knowledge? How can you seek to deepen your understanding and experience of God?

  4. Holiness and Growth: Spurgeon speaks about the need for believers to pursue holiness and spiritual growth. What practical steps can you take to cultivate a deeper relationship with God and a more vibrant faith?

  5. Community Impact: How does the spiritual vitality of individual believers affect the church as a whole? In what ways can you contribute to the health and growth of your church community?

  6. Overcoming Doubt: Spurgeon mentions that Joash may have doubted the effectiveness of his actions. How can we combat doubt in our own lives, especially when facing challenges in our faith?

  7. Ambition for God: What does it mean to have a “high and noble ambition” for God? How can you set goals that align with God’s purposes for your life and the lives of those around you?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You are our source of strength and deliverance. Help me to recognize the importance of my actions in partnership with Your divine will. Grant me the courage to pursue a deeper faith, to strive for holiness, and to be an active participant in Your work. May I not settle for mediocrity but seek to glorify You in all that I do. Fill me with Your Spirit and guide me as I aim to shoot my arrows of faith with confidence and persistence. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Similar Posts

  • A Drama in Five Acts

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of focusing on eternal truths rather than temporary pleasures. Using the metaphor of a play, he illustrates how worldly joys, sorrows, and possessions are ultimately transient. Spurgeon encourages believers to live with an awareness of the brevity of time, urging them to invest in what is eternal and substantial—namely, their relationship with God and the souls of others.

  • Negotiations for Peace

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the urgent need for reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ. He outlines the reasons why individuals should seek peace with their Creator, the terms of that peace, and the authority of Christ as Lord of all. Spurgeon passionately calls for listeners to recognize their enmity with God and to embrace the grace offered through Jesus, who is the mediator of peace.

  • Christians Kept in Time and Glorified in Eternity

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon reflects on Jude 24-25, emphasizing God’s ability to keep believers from falling and to present them faultless before His glory. Spurgeon draws parallels between the failures of the Israelites, the fallen angels, and the grace of Christ that preserves and glorifies His people. He encourages believers to recognize their own weaknesses while trusting in Christ’s strength and promises.

  • The High Priest Standing Between the Dead and the Living

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon draws from the biblical account of Aaron’s intercession during a plague among the Israelites to illustrate the profound role of Jesus Christ as our High Priest. Just as Aaron stood between the living and the dead, offering incense to atone for the people’s sins, Christ stands as our ultimate intercessor, propitiator, and savior. Through His selfless love and sacrifice, He offers us salvation and protection from the wrath of God.

  • The Way

    In this powerful sermon, C. H. Spurgeon expounds on the profound truth found in John 14:6, where Jesus declares, “I am the way.” Spurgeon emphasizes that Christ is the only path from sin and guilt to reconciliation with the Father. He illustrates how Jesus’ sacrifice removes our sins and the wrath of God, offering believers a way to live in freedom and joy. The sermon invites listeners to trust in Christ as their sole means of salvation and to experience the fullness of life that comes from knowing Him.

  • The Prayer of Jabez

    In this sermon, C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the life of Jabez, a man known for his honorable character and fervent prayer. Spurgeon emphasizes the significance of Jabez’s plea, “Oh that you would bless me indeed!” and explores the nature of true blessings from God compared to those of men. He encourages believers to seek God’s blessings that are substantial and eternal, rather than superficial or temporary.