The Last Census

Study Guide for “The Last Census” Sermon

Introduction

In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the significance of God’s final census of His people, as described in Psalm 87:6. He emphasizes that this census will be personal, vital, and decisive, highlighting the importance of individual faith in Christ for salvation. Spurgeon warns against hypocrisy and mere church attendance, urging listeners to ensure their names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life through genuine belief and transformation.

Discussion Questions

  1. Personal Reflection: What does it mean to you that the census will be personal? How does this shape your understanding of your relationship with God?

  2. Faith and Assurance: Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of personal faith in Christ. How can you cultivate a deeper faith in your daily life? What practices help you to grow in your relationship with Him?

  3. Hypocrisy in the Church: Spurgeon warns against being a hypocritical church member. Have you ever struggled with this? How can you ensure that your faith is genuine and not merely a facade?

  4. The Importance of Regeneration: The sermon discusses the necessity of being “born again.” What does regeneration mean to you, and how has it impacted your life?

  5. The Role of Community: How can the church community support individuals in their faith journeys? What role do accountability and encouragement play in your spiritual growth?

  6. Facing Judgment: Spurgeon speaks about the finality of the census and the importance of being ready for that day. How can you prepare your heart and mind for the return of Christ?

  7. God’s Sovereignty: Reflect on the idea that God alone will write up the people. How does this truth bring you comfort or challenge you in your understanding of salvation and grace?

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the promise that You know each of us by name and that our identities are secure in You. Help me to examine my heart and ensure that my faith in Christ is genuine. May I not be swayed by the opinions of others or rely on my own understanding, but instead trust in Your grace and mercy. As I reflect on the truth of Your Word, guide me to live a life that honors You and prepares me for the day when You will count Your people. I pray that my name will be found in the Lamb’s Book of Life, and that I may share in the joy of Your eternal kingdom. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Similar Posts

  • Beauty for Ashes

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C. H. Spurgeon draws from Isaiah 61:3 to offer hope and comfort to those who mourn. He emphasizes that Jesus, the anointed one, comes to bring beauty in place of ashes, joy in place of mourning, and praise in place of heaviness. Spurgeon encourages believers to trust in Christ’s ability to transform their sorrow into joy and to recognize their identity as “trees of righteousness,” planted by the Lord for His glory.

  • Christ’s First and Last Subject

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon emphasizes the centrality of repentance in the ministry of Jesus Christ. He highlights that repentance was the first message Jesus preached and the last command He gave to His disciples. Spurgeon explores the origin, essentials, companions, and excellencies of true repentance, illustrating its vital role in the believer’s life and relationship with God.

  • Preach the Gospel

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C.H. Spurgeon explores the necessity and calling to preach the gospel. He emphasizes the importance of preaching the whole gospel, exalting Jesus Christ, and addressing the needs of all people. He also highlights the dangers of pride and the constant dependence on the Holy Spirit in preaching. The study guide will delve deeper into the message of the sermon and encourage reflection and application in the reader’s own life.

  • What God Cannot Do

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon emphasizes the unwavering truthfulness of God, as stated in Titus 1:2, “God, that cannot lie.” He explores the pervasive nature of falsehood in the world and contrasts it with God’s absolute truthfulness. Spurgeon encourages believers to trust in God’s promises, reminding them that His nature is unchanging and that He is always faithful to His word. The sermon calls for a deepened faith and a commitment to living in truth, reflecting God’s character in a world filled with deception.

  • Man’s Thoughts and God’s Thoughts

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon explores the profound difference between human thoughts and God’s thoughts, particularly regarding forgiveness and the nature of sin. He emphasizes that while our understanding of forgiveness may be limited and flawed, God’s ways are infinitely higher and more gracious. Spurgeon encourages listeners to reflect on their own thoughts about sin and forgiveness, urging them to embrace God’s perspective and the hope found in Christ.

  • The Voice of the Cholera

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon addresses the cholera outbreak in London as a divine call to repentance and reflection. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing God’s hand in national calamities and urges the congregation to examine their lives and the collective sins of society. Spurgeon encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, acknowledging that true healing comes from both spiritual and physical cleanliness.