One a Majority!
C.H. Spurgeon's sermon emphasizes that one person with faith in God can achieve great victories, regardless of the odds against them.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that one person with God is a majority, illustrating that divine strength can overcome any odds. He references biblical examples such as Gideon, Abram, Moses, and David to demonstrate that God often works through individuals rather than large groups. Spurgeon encourages believers to trust in God's promises and to be courageous, as faith empowers them to achieve great victories against overwhelming opposition. The sermon highlights the importance of relying on God's strength rather than human numbers.
Text
One man of you shall chase a thousand: for the Lord your God, he it is that fighteth for you, as he hath promised you, (Joshua 23:10)
Why count heads? One man with God is a majority though there be a thousand on the other side. Sometimes our helpers may be too many for God to work with them, as was the case with Gideon, who could do nothing till he had increased his forces by thinning out their numbers. But the Lord's hosts are never too few. When God would found a nation, He called Abram alone and blessed him. When He would vanquish proud Pharaoh, He used no armies, but only Moses and Aaron. The "one-man ministry," as certain wise men call it, has been far more used of the Lord than trained bands with their officers. Did all the Israelites together slay so many as Samson alone?
Saul and his hosts slew their thousands but David his ten thousands.
The Lord can give the enemy long odds and yet vanquish him. If we have faith, we have God with us, and what are multitudes of men? One shepherd's dog can drive before him a flock of sheep. If the Lord sent thee, O my brother, His strength will accomplish His divine purpose. Wherefore, rely on the promise, and be very courageous.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - The power of one with God - Biblical examples of one person making a difference - The significance of faith in achieving victory
- II points: - The dangers of relying on numbers - God's preference for the humble and few - Lessons from Gideon's army
- III points: - Historical examples of one-man ministries - The impact of individual leaders in scripture - David's victories over Saul's army
- IV points: - The assurance of God's presence - Encouragement to trust in God's promises - The call to courage in faith
Key Quotes
“One man of you shall chase a thousand: for the Lord your God, he it is that fighteth for you.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“One shepherd's dog can drive before him a flock of sheep.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“If the Lord sent thee, O my brother, His strength will accomplish His divine purpose.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- Trust in God's promises and rely on His strength in challenging situations.
- Recognize the power of individual faith and its potential to impact others.
- Be courageous in your faith, knowing that God fights for you.