Study Guide for “The Weeding of the Garden” Sermon

Introduction

In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the words of Jesus in Matthew 15:13, emphasizing the importance of discerning what God has planted in our lives versus what is merely human or false. He challenges listeners to examine their own faith and relationship with Christ, urging them to ensure they are truly rooted in God’s truth rather than in self-righteousness or external influences. The message serves as a call to self-examination and a reminder of the necessity of being genuinely planted by God.

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding Planting: What does it mean to be “planted” by God? How can we discern whether our faith is genuinely rooted in Him or merely a product of our environment or upbringing?

  2. Offense and Truth: Spurgeon mentions that the truth of the Gospel often offends. How can we respond to the offense of the Gospel in our own lives and in the lives of others?

  3. Self-Examination: Reflect on your own spiritual journey. Can you identify a moment when you felt uprooted from your old life and planted in Christ? What did that transformation look like for you?

  4. False Confidence: Spurgeon warns against self-planted faith. In what ways can we be tempted to rely on our own efforts or moral standing instead of fully trusting in Christ?

  5. The Role of Community: How does the community of believers (the church) play a role in helping us discern what is of God and what is not? What responsibilities do we have towards one another in this regard?

  6. God’s Sovereignty: Spurgeon reassures us that God will ultimately uproot what He has not planted. How does this truth bring you comfort or challenge you in your faith?

  7. Responding to the Call: The sermon ends with an invitation to trust in Christ. What steps can you take to respond to this call in your own life, whether for the first time or as a recommitment?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I come before You with a humble heart, seeking to be rooted and grounded in Your truth. Help me to discern what You have planted in my life and to uproot anything that does not align with Your will. May Your Holy Spirit guide me in self-examination, revealing areas where I may be relying on my own strength rather than fully trusting in Christ. I ask for the courage to embrace the truth of the Gospel, even when it offends, and to encourage others in their journey of faith. Thank You for the promise that those who trust in You will never be uprooted. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

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