The sermon distinguishes genuine assurance grounded in God’s power from presumption grounded in self-confidence. Because believers remain vulnerable to sin and do not fully know the corruption of their hearts, they must avoid temptation, use the means of grace, and walk carefully with Christ. Spurgeon defends free-grace doctrine as a source of holiness rather than license for sin. For unbelievers, he gives a clear gospel invitation: repent and believe in Jesus Christ, since works cannot save and those who trust him are justified and forgiven.
Theological center: Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ, while genuine grace produces humble dependence, vigilance, and holiness rather than presumption.
Applications: Take heed of presumption · Avoid deliberate temptation · Walk consistently with the gospel · Repent and believe in Christ
Primary texts: 1 Corinthians 10:12 · Mark 16:16 · Jeremiah 17:9
“Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” 1 Corinthians 10:12 IT is a singular fact, but nevertheless most certain, that the vices are the counterfeits of virtues. Whenever God sends from the mint of heaven a precious coin of genuine metal, Satan will imitate the impress and utter a vile production of no value. God gives love, it is His nature and His essence. Satan also fashions a thing which he calls love, but it is lust. God bestows courage and it is a good thing to be able to look one’s fellow in the face, fearless of all men in doing our duty. Satan inspires fool-hardiness, styles it courage and bids the man rush to the cannon’s mouth for “bubble reputation.” God creates in man holy fear. Satan gives him unbelief and we often mistake the one for the other. So with t…