Shepherding with Spurgeon

Weekly Newsletter for Pastors from SpurgeonBooks

ENCOURAGEMENT FOR PASTORS (BY SPURGEON)

Our work especially requires faith. If we fail in faith, we had better not have undertaken it; and unless we obtain faith commensurate with the service, we shall soon grow weary of it. It is proven by all observation that success in the Lord’s service is very generally in proportion to faith. It certainly is not in proportion to ability, nor does it always run parallel with a display of zeal; but it is invariably according to the measure of faith, for this is a law of the Kingdom without exception, “Let it be done for you according to your faith” (Matthew 9:29).

It is essential, then, that we should have faith if we are to be useful, and that we should have great faith if we are to be greatly useful. For many other reasons besides usefulness, namely, even for our being able to hold our own against the enemies of the truth, and for ability to stand against the temptations which surround our office, it is imperative upon us that we should have abundant confidence in the living God. We, above all men, need the mountain-moving faith, by which, in the old time, men of God “conquered kingdoms, administered justice, obtained promises, shut the mouths of lions, quenched the raging of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, gained strength in weakness, became mighty in battle, and put foreign armies to flight” (Hebrews 11:33–34).

SERMON ILLUSTRATION FROM SPURGEON

Spurgeon was a master illustrator. You can use this illustration in your own preaching to describe the wonderful diversity and unity of the church.

Diamonds are not all of one shape; in a natural state the crystals are of various forms, and are further altered in the process of cutting: their colors, too, vary greatly. Each stone has its own peculiar character and consequent value: some are more precious, others less so. So is it with the people of God: they are not all alike; but each has his or her particular character, as diamonds have their color, form, and value.

RESOURCE FOR PASTORS

Free resources for your church*

The VOM Church Leader Network from The Voice of the Martyrs exists to equip and encourage pastors, staff and ministry leaders with free discipleship resources, inspired by the bold and faithful witness of persecuted Christians. Those you lead can be bold and faithful witnesses no matter the cost.

When you sign up, VOM will send you…

• Wurmbrand Group Study (six-session video series with leader and participant guides)

• VOM’s Award Winning Monthly Magazine

• Global Prayer Guide

• Ongoing access to request free digital resources and products

This is a valuable resource that’s offered for FREE to you. You’re not going to want to miss this. Sign up today.

ONE MORE REMINDER: PREACH JESUS THIS WEEKEND

“It is your business to preach the gospel to dead sinners, for it is the gospel that makes the dead to live.” — Charles Spurgeon