ENCOURAGEMENT FOR PASTORS (BY SPURGEON)
Spurgeon said this while introducing a sermon…
Having preached another text of a very similar character a short time ago, I have felt somewhat embarrassed in preparation; but I will take courage, and say with the apostle, “To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe” (Philippians 3:1).
If I should bring forth old things on this occasion, do not be unmindful that even the wise householder does this at times. For oft-recurring sickness the same wine may be prescribed by the most skillful physician without blame; no one scolds the contractor for mending rough roads again and again with stones from the same quarry; the wind which has borne us once into the haven, is not despised for blowing often from the same quarter, for it may do us good service yet again; and therefore, I am assured that you will endure my repetitions of the same truths, since they may assist you to suffer with patience the same trials.
SERMON ILLUSTRATION (BY SPURGEON)
Spurgeon was a master illustrator. You can use this illustration in your own preaching to describe God’s use of our trials to increase our faith.
Great hearts can only be made by great troubles. The spade of trouble digs the reservoir of comfort deeper, and makes more room for consolation. God comes into our heart—he finds it full—he begins to break our comforts and to make it empty; than there is more room for grace.
THANKS FOR READING
Brothers,
Many of us struggle with the desire to be “original” in our preaching. We must not shrink back from declaring the biggest themes of Scripture over-and-over again. Our people still need to hear the old, old story — so let’s stand and share it with them this week.
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Blessings to your ministry,
Doug H.
Creator of SpurgeonBooks