A Woman's War
God can use anyone, regardless of their background or abilities, to accomplish His purpose and bring souls to salvation.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the theme of divine empowerment in 'A Woman's War,' illustrating how God chose a woman, Jael, to defeat Sisera, highlighting the inadequacy of Barak's faith. This unusual choice serves to rebuke the slackness of men and demonstrates that God can use anyone, regardless of their societal role, to fulfill His purposes. Spurgeon encourages believers to recognize their potential to impact others for Christ, urging them to welcome those in need and share the gospel's saving message. He reminds us that even the seemingly weak can be instruments of God's glory, and that we should be ready to act in faith. The sermon calls for a response to the gospel, suggesting that today could be the day a sinner finds salvation.
Text
The Lord shall sell Sisera into the hand of a woman. (Judges 4:9)
Rather an unusual text, but there may be souls in the world that may have faith enough to grasp it. Barak, the man, though called to the war, had little stomach for the fight unless Deborah would go with him, and so the Lord determined to make it a woman's war. By this means He rebuked the slackness of the man, gained for Himself the more renown, and cast the more shame upon the enemies of His people.
The Lord can still use feeble instrumentalities. Why not me? He may use persons who are not commonly called to great public engagements. Why not you? The woman who slew the enemy of Israel was no Amazon but a wife who tarried in her tent. She was no orator but a woman who milked the cows and made butter.
May not the Lord use any one of us to accomplish His purpose? Somebody may come to the house today, even as Sisera came to Jael's tent. Be it ours not to slay him, but to save him. Let us receive him with great kindness and then bring forth the blessed truth of salvation by the Lord Jesus, our great Substitute, and press home the command "Believe and live." Who knoweth but some stout-hearted sinner may be slain by the gospel today!
Sermon Outline
- The Lord's Unusual Method of Victory
- Using a woman to defeat the enemy
- Rebuking the slackness of men
- Gaining renown and shame for God's people
Key Quotes
“The Lord can still use feeble instrumentalities. Why not me?” — C.H. Spurgeon
“May not the Lord use any one of us to accomplish His purpose?” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Who knoweth but some stout-hearted sinner may be slain by the gospel today!” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- We should be open to God's use and willing to serve Him in any way.
- Our ultimate goal should be to save souls and bring them to salvation through Jesus Christ.
- We can apply this by being kind and receptive to those who may be seeking God.