Study Guide for “The Earnest of Heaven”

Introduction

In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon explores the concept of heaven as an inheritance granted to believers through their new birth in Christ. He emphasizes that this inheritance is not earned through works but is a gift from God, secured by the Holy Spirit, who serves as both a pledge and a foretaste of the joys to come. Spurgeon encourages believers to recognize the experiences of peace, joy, and communion with God as glimpses of the eternal rest and fellowship awaiting them in heaven.

Discussion Questions

  1. Inheritance of Heaven: How does understanding heaven as an inheritance rather than a reward change your perspective on salvation and your relationship with God?

  2. Role of the Holy Spirit: In what ways have you experienced the Holy Spirit as a foretaste of heaven in your life? Can you share a specific moment when you felt His presence strongly?

  3. Rest and Peace: Spurgeon describes heaven as a state of perfect rest. How can you cultivate a sense of rest and peace in your life today, even amidst challenges and struggles?

  4. Communion with Believers: Reflect on your relationships with fellow believers. How can you foster deeper fellowship and communion within your church community that mirrors the unity we will experience in heaven?

  5. Joy Over Sinners Saved: Spurgeon mentions the joy in heaven over sinners saved. How can you actively participate in sharing the Gospel and celebrating conversions in your community?

  6. Fellowship with Christ: Have you ever experienced a deep sense of fellowship with Christ? How can you seek to deepen that relationship in your daily life?

  7. Eternal Perspective: How does the promise of heaven influence your daily decisions and priorities? In what ways can you live with a more eternal perspective?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of salvation and the promise of eternal life with You. Help me to understand and embrace the inheritance that is mine through Christ. May Your Holy Spirit fill me with peace, joy, and a deeper fellowship with You and my fellow believers. Guide me to live each day with an eternal perspective, sharing the hope of the Gospel with those around me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

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