Christ Himself Is the Proof
Jesus Christ himself is the ultimate proof of his own gospel, commanding respect and admiration even from his critics.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that the character of Jesus commands respect even from those who oppose his teachings, presenting a unique challenge to critics who can refute his doctrine but cannot deny his divine nature. Despite their attempts to criticize his teachings, they find themselves unable to accuse him personally, as his life and character stand as undeniable proof of his divinity. Spurgeon argues that Jesus Christ himself is the ultimate evidence of his own gospel, silencing objections and compelling admiration. The sermon highlights the profound impact of Jesus' character on both believers and skeptics alike.
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The character of Jesus has commanded respect even from those who have abhorred his teaching. It has been a stumbling-stone to all objectors who have preserved a shade of candour. Jesus' doctrine they could refute, they say; his precepts they could improve, so they boast; his system is narrow and outworn, so they assert: but himself - what can they do with him? They must admire him even if they will not adore him; and having done so they have admired a personage who must be divine, or else he wilfully left his disciples to believe a lie. How they surmount this difficulty? They cannot do so by railing at him, for they have no material for accusation. Jesus Christ himself silences their cavillings. This is a file at which these asps do bite, but break their teeth.
Beyond all argument or miracle, Jesus Christ himself is the proof of his own gospel.
From a sermon by Charles Haddon Spurgeon entitled "The Jesus Christ Himself," delivered December 9, 1877.
Sermon Outline
- The Character of Jesus Commands Respect points: - Even from those who oppose his teaching
- The Difficulty of Objecting to Jesus points: - His doctrine can be refuted, but not his person
- The Admiration of Jesus points: - A personage who must be divine
- Jesus Silences His Critics points: - No material for accusation
- Jesus Himself is the Proof of His Gospel points: - Beyond argument or miracle
Key Quotes
“Jesus Christ himself silences their cavillings.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“This is a file at which these asps do bite, but break their teeth.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Beyond all argument or miracle, Jesus Christ himself is the proof of his own gospel.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- Recognize the character of Jesus as a proof of his divinity and the truth of his gospel.
- Do not try to refute or improve Jesus' doctrine or precepts, but rather focus on his person.
- Admire and respect Jesus, even if you do not adore him, and acknowledge his divinity.