C.H. Spurgeon's New(ish) Sermons Are a Blessing

C.H. Spurgeon is known as “The Prince of Preachers” for good reason. His sermons reached thousands—if not millions—while he was alive, and his preaching and gospel legacy has continued for nearly 130 years after his death. Though Spurgeon wrote many books including his Autobiography and his noteworthy Lectures to My Students, he is most known for his massive volumes of published sermons. 

The Lost Sermons of C.H. Spurgeon series has shed light on some of Spurgeon’s earliest sermons and sermon skeletons. This series includes photocopies and transcriptions of Spurgeon’s sermon notebooks from 1851-1854. Volume 5 of the series represents his sermon skeletons 233 to 284. These skeletons represent some of Spurgeon’s foundational exegetical works and material sometimes used in future sermons and transcripts.

The sermons in Spurgeon’s 5th notebook tally 123 pages, but The Lost Sermons Vol. 5 totals nearly 500 pages. What could account for the other 370 pages? Besides introductory material and indexes, each sermon has been transcribed and edited for clarity. Then, Geoffrey Change has combed through Spurgeon’s library to trace his study materials, autobiography, and later sermons to give readers Scripture references and other valuable insights and progression in Spurgeon’s thought.

Each sermon has copious notes to help the reader get a better grasp of the context for Spurgeon’s work. In sermon 241, "What Doth Hinder Me To Be Baptized?", there are 26 notes spanning 4 pages. There are 8 references to others of Spurgeon’s works and 1 reference to external work. Here’s a small sample from the notes on sermon 241:

• “It appears that Charles did not preach another sermon on the text of Acts 8:36…” (p. 100).
• “Charles rejected the idea of baptismal regeneration or any other conception of baptism that made it a condition of salvation. Rather baptism portrays (“sets forth”) the forgiveness fo the believer, which he has already enjoyed.” (p. 102).
• “Like other Baptists, Charles held baptism and church membership together. To be baptized was to be brought into the membership and accountability.” (p. 103).

The Lost Sermons of C.H. Spurgeon Vol. 5 is a versatile resource. If you’re into history, you’ll love the full-color photocopies of Spurgeon’s original notebooks. If you’re a fan of Spurgeon’s preaching, you’ll benefit from these “new” sermons. If you’re just someone looking to read some solid sermons in your devotional time, Spurgeon’s sermon skeletons are still rich with his warm devotional and doctrinal zeal. If you’re unacquainted with Spurgeon, here’s a great way to discover an incredible preacher of God’s Word. Personally, I love getting a glimpse at Spurgeon’s study habits, pulpit notes, and reference materials.

I received a free copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to leave a positive review.