By Faith Not Feeling
C.H. Spurgeon's sermon emphasizes the importance of living by faith in Christ rather than relying on feelings or personal righteousness.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that true life comes from faith in Jesus Christ rather than relying on personal righteousness or feelings. He asserts that even the most righteous must depend on Christ's work for salvation, highlighting that faith is a more secure and joyful foundation than feelings or works. Spurgeon illustrates that just as a branch thrives by remaining connected to the vine, believers must cling to Jesus for spiritual sustenance. He encourages a complete trust in God, recognizing that faith is essential for both the just and the sinner. Ultimately, he declares that trusting in the Lord is the essence of life.
Text
The just shall live by faith. (Romans 1:17)
I shall not die, I can, I do, believe in the Lord my God, and this faith will keep me alive. I would be numbered among those who in their lives are just; but even if I were perfect I would not try to live by my righteousness; I would cling to the work of the Lord Jesus and still live by faith in Him and by nothing else. If I were able to give my body to be burned for my Lord Jesus, yet I would not trust in my own courage and constancy, but still would live by faith.
Were I a martyr at the stake
I'd plead my Saviour's name;
Intreat a pardon for His sake,
And urge no other claim.
To live by faith is a far surer and happier thing than to live by feelings or by works, The branch, by living in the vine, lives a better life than it would live by itself, even if it were possible for it to live at all apart from the stem. To live by clinging to Jesus, by deriving all from Him, is a sweet and sacred thing. If even the most just must live in this fashion, how much more must I who am a poor sinner! Lord, I believe. I must trust Thee wholly. What else can I do? Trusting Thee is my life....
Sermon Outline
- I points: - The foundation of faith - The role of feelings in faith - The contrast between faith and works
- II points: - The necessity of faith for the just - Living by faith versus living by self - The assurance found in faith
- III points: - Clinging to Jesus as the source of life - The joy of living by faith - Faith as a response to God's grace
- IV points: - The example of martyrs - Trusting in Christ's righteousness - The ultimate claim of faith
Key Quotes
“The just shall live by faith.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“To live by faith is a far surer and happier thing than to live by feelings or by works.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Trusting Thee is my life.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- Trust in God's promises rather than your own feelings to find true peace.
- Recognize that faith in Jesus is the source of spiritual life and strength.
- Embrace the assurance that comes from relying on Christ's righteousness instead of your own.