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

  • The Sieve

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C. H. Spurgeon reflects on the biblical concept of sifting as described in Amos 9:9. He emphasizes that God commands the sifting of His people, both as a means of purification and as a demonstration of His unwavering love and protection. Spurgeon reassures believers that, despite the trials and tribulations they face, not a single grain of true faith will be lost. The sermon encourages Christians to embrace their struggles as part of God’s divine plan for their growth and salvation.

  • A Divine Challenge!

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon draws parallels between the Israelites’ enslavement in Egypt and the spiritual bondage of humanity to sin. He emphasizes God’s sovereign command to free His people, highlighting the distinction between those chosen by God and the world. Spurgeon reassures believers that God has the power to liberate them from their sins and that this freedom is not just partial but complete and eternal.

  • The Sweet Harp of Consolation

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of God’s presence in times of fear and despair. He draws from Isaiah 41:10, where God reassures His people not to fear because He is with them. Spurgeon explores various circumstances in life where this divine comfort is especially needed, highlighting God’s sympathy, providential aid, and the assurance of His presence. The message encourages believers to trust in God’s unwavering support, even in the darkest moments.

  • The Putting Away of Sin

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the profound truth that Jesus Christ came to put away sin through His ultimate sacrifice. He contrasts the inadequacy of the Old Testament sacrifices with the sufficiency of Christ’s atonement, highlighting that true peace and forgiveness come only through faith in Him. Spurgeon reassures those burdened by sin that Christ’s sacrifice is complete and final, offering hope and joy to all who believe.

  • Mercy’s Master Motive

    Byeditor

    In this powerful sermon, C.H. Spurgeon explores the profound depths of God’s mercy as revealed in Isaiah 48:9-11. He emphasizes that God’s motivation for showing mercy is not found in human merit but in His own glory and faithfulness. Spurgeon illustrates how God’s grace is extended to both sinners and backsliders, highlighting that even in our rebellion, God’s love remains steadfast. The sermon encourages us to recognize our need for grace and to trust in God’s unchanging nature.

  • Believers—Lights in the World

    Byeditor

    In this sermon, Rev. C. H. Spurgeon emphasizes the call for Christians to live as lights in a dark world, as instructed by the Apostle Paul in Philippians 2:14-16. He urges believers to embody the principles of holiness, love, and public testimony, highlighting the importance of living out their faith actively and visibly. Spurgeon reminds us that our lives should reflect Christ’s goodness, serving as a beacon of hope and guidance to those around us.