The Widow of Sarepta

Study Guide for “The Widow of Sarepta” Sermon

Introduction

In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon explores the story of the widow of Sarepta, emphasizing God’s sovereign choice and grace in selecting an unlikely individual to sustain the prophet Elijah during a time of famine. Spurgeon highlights the themes of divine election, the secret workings of God in our hearts, the importance of generosity in supporting God’s work, and the unexpected ways God provides for His people. Through the widow’s faith and obedience, we are reminded of God’s ability to use anyone, regardless of their circumstances, to fulfill His purposes.

Discussion Questions

  1. Divine Election: How does the story of the widow of Sarepta illustrate the concept of divine election? What does it mean for you personally to be chosen by God?

  2. Faith in Action: The widow had to act in faith by giving her last bit of food to Elijah. What does this teach us about the relationship between faith and action in our own lives?

  3. God’s Preparations: Spurgeon mentions that God prepares hearts before the gospel is preached. Reflect on your own life—can you identify moments or experiences that prepared you to receive God’s message?

  4. Generosity and Worship: Why do you think God desires us to give to His work? How can our acts of generosity reflect our relationship with Him?

  5. Unexpected Provision: Spurgeon speaks of God’s unexpected interpositions. Can you share a time when you experienced God’s provision in an unexpected way? How did it strengthen your faith?

  6. Holiness and Election: The sermon emphasizes that being chosen by God involves a call to holiness and service. How can you actively pursue holiness in your daily life?

  7. God’s Sovereignty: How does understanding God’s sovereignty in our lives affect the way we respond to challenges and uncertainties?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your sovereign grace and for choosing us as Your children. Help us to trust in Your plans, even when we cannot see the way forward. May we have the faith of the widow of Sarepta, willing to give of ourselves and serve others, knowing that You will provide for our needs. Teach us to live in a way that reflects Your holiness and to be generous in supporting Your work. We ask for Your guidance and strength as we seek to follow You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Similar Posts

  • Memento Mori

    In this powerful sermon delivered by Rev. C. H. Spurgeon, the preacher urges us to confront the reality of death and its implications for our lives. He emphasizes that while society often avoids the topic of death, it is essential for our spiritual health to consider our mortality. By reflecting on death, we can gain wisdom, prioritize our lives, and prepare our hearts to meet God. Spurgeon encourages us to see death not just as an end, but as a transition to eternal life, urging both believers and non-believers to reflect on their relationship with Christ.

  • The Church of Christ

    In this sermon, Rev. C.H. Spurgeon explores the idea that the church of Christ is meant to be a blessing to others. He emphasizes that God’s purpose in choosing a people is not only to save them, but also to use them as instruments of blessing to the whole human race. Spurgeon encourages believers to recognize their role in being a blessing and to actively seek opportunities to bless others. He also reminds them that as they fulfill this calling, God will shower them with His blessings.

  • Eyes Opened

    In this powerful sermon, C. H. Spurgeon explores the theme of spiritual blindness and the necessity of divine intervention for true understanding and salvation. Using the stories of Hagar and the disciples on the road to Emmaus, he emphasizes that while we may have a deep sense of need and desire for Christ, it is only through God opening our eyes that we can truly see and receive His grace. Spurgeon encourages listeners to trust in Jesus, highlighting that salvation is not found in our efforts but in faith alone.

  • Altogether Lovely

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the profound beauty and loveliness of Christ as expressed in the Song of Solomon. He emphasizes that Jesus is the ultimate source of beauty and love, worthy of all admiration and devotion. Spurgeon encourages believers to seek a deeper understanding of Christ, to meditate on His attributes, and to allow their hearts to be filled with His love, leading to a life of ardent devotion and service.

  • Threefold Sanctification

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon explores the profound concept of sanctification as a work of the Holy Trinity—God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the unity of the Trinity in the process of sanctification and the necessity of holiness in the life of a believer. Spurgeon encourages Christians to value their sanctification, understanding it as a divine calling to live set apart for God’s purposes.

  • The Eternal Name

    In this sermon, Rev. C.H. Spurgeon proclaims the eternal nature of the name of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that while the works and religions of man may fade away, the name of Jesus will endure forever. The sermon explores the enduring nature of Jesus’ religion, the honor of his name, and the saving power of his name.