Fear Only God
C.H. Spurgeon's sermon emphasizes the importance of fearing God above all else, leading to boldness and contentment in the face of worldly challenges.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of fearing only God, asserting that with the Lord as our helper, we need not fear what man can do to us. He encourages believers to find contentment in God's presence, which provides friendship, treasure, and a safe dwelling. Spurgeon reminds us that true independence comes from our relationship with God, allowing us to stand boldly against the scorn and threats of the world. He asserts that those who fear God have nothing else to fear, as worldly threats are insignificant compared to the power of the living Lord. Ultimately, he calls for courage in the face of persecution, urging believers to remain steadfast and unafraid.
Text
So that me may boldy say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. (Hebrews 13:6)
Because God will never leave nor forsake us, we may well be content with such things as we have. Since the Lord is ours, we cannot be left without a friend, a treasure, and a dwelling place. This assurance may make us feel quite independent of men. Under such high patronage we do not feel tempted to cringe before our fellowmen and ask of them permission to call our lives our own; but what we say we boldly say and defy contradiction.
He who fears God has nothing else to fear. We should stand in such awe of the living Lord that all the threats that can be used by the proudest persecutor should have no more effect upon us than the whistling of the wind.
Man in these days cannot do so much against us as he could when the apostle wrote the verse at the head of this page. Racks and stakes are out of fashion. Giant Pope cannot burn the pilgrims now. If the followers of false teachers try cruel mockery and scorn, we do not wonder at it, for the men of this world cannot love the heavenly seed. What then? We must bear the world's scorn. It breaks no bones. God helping us, let us be bold; and when the world rages, let it rage, but let us not fear it.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - The Assurance of God's Presence - Contentment in God's Provision - Independence from Human Approval
- II points: - The Fear of God vs. the Fear of Man - The Power of God's Protection - Boldness in the Face of Persecution
- III points: - The Nature of True Courage - The Response to Worldly Scorn - Living Fearlessly for Christ
Key Quotes
“He who fears God has nothing else to fear.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“God helping us, let us be bold; and when the world rages, let it rage, but let us not fear it.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“This assurance may make us feel quite independent of men.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- Trust in God's presence to overcome fear of man.
- Embrace contentment by recognizing God's provision in your life.
- Stand firm in your faith and respond to scorn with courage and confidence.