Weekend Edition: Draw near to us, God

Get a prayer from Spurgeon in your inbox every day. Subscribe to the Pray with Spurgeon newsletter for free.

PRAYER FOR THE CHURCH (BY SPURGEON)

As we gather with our church, be pleased to refresh us. Draw near to us, gracious God; it is only your presence that can make us happy, holy, devout or strong. Shadow us now with your wings, cover us with your feathers, and under your wings may we trust. May we follow very near unto you, and so feel the quickening warmth, the joy which only your nearness can bring.

If any in your presence this morning are unsaved, oh save them now. Grant that the service of this morning may bring such glad tidings to their ear, that their heart shall leap at the sound of it, and they shall return unto God, who will abundantly pardon. Bless every preacher of the Word today, and all Sunday schools, classes of young men and women, all tract-distributing and street preaching, and every form of holy service. Accept the prayers and praises of your people.

Amen.

GET A FREE COURSE

Thanks to Midwestern Seminary for sponsoring the Weekend Edition of this newsletter.

My friends at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary have put together a GREAT video class from Jared Wilson that unpacks exactly how God’s story really can impact every part of your life.

It’s called “The Story of Everything” and it’s available FOR FREE right now.

Click here to get started with this FREE seminary-level course.

WEEKEND LONG READ (SERMON BY SPURGEON)

What Jesus Would Do

Jesus is willing to gather us — to gather the children of this city together, — as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings. Oh! I trust I may not have to say, “And ye would not;” but may the sweet Spirit of God be here to move the untoward and wicked wills of men, till it shall be said, “Christ is willing to gather you, and ye are willing to be gathered.” When those two things come together, great blessing must result. 

Read the full sermon from the Spurgeon Center for Biblical Preaching at Midwestern Seminary.

A FREE RESOURCE FROM MIDWESTERN

Jesus’ Call Was to Plant Churches by Tim Keller

Yesterday, Tim Keller passed away. As his faith became sight, those of us who have been impacted by his ministry should take time to thank God for his faithfulness through Tim.

PREPARE FOR MINISTRY AT MIDWESTERN

With all the hardships and headwinds Christian ministers face in a post-Christian world, along with the growing reality of ministry burnout, this year’s For The Church National Conference seeks to remind ministry leaders and saints alike of the glorious calling of everyday ministry. There may be days filled with difficulties and loss, yet being a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ is worth every pain, every worry, and every tear.

Join us in Kansas City on September 11-12 to remember why everyday ministry matters for the glory of God and the good of the Church.