Breaking it all Down! Spurgeon’s Brutal Rejection of Secular Self-Help Movements That Will Make You Fall Out of Your Seat

Introduction

Contents

1 Introduction
2 Spurgeon on Self and Christ
3 Secular Self-Help’s Self-Savior Myth
4 Carnegie vs. Christ
5 Descartes and the Self
6 Lincoln’s Perspective
7 FAQ on Secular Self-Help and Spurgeon
8 Conclusion

In an age where secular self-help movements proliferate, the call for personal empowerment often overshadows spiritual reliance. These movements advocate the idea that individuals can cultivate their own strength to overcome life’s challenges. However, the esteemed preacher Charles Spurgeon presents a starkly contrasting perspective. He argues that true help and strength do not stem from self but rather from faith in Christ.

The relevance of Psalm 121:1–2 is paramount in this discussion: “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.” This scripture underscores the essence of looking beyond oneself for assistance—imploring believers to seek divine aid rather than relying solely on human ingenuity.

The goal of this article is to delve into Spurgeon’s profound rejection of secular self-help. Through his teachings, we will uncover his belief that self is a broken reed and that only through Christ, the strong staff, can true support be found. As Spurgeon famously stated, “Self is a broken reed, Christ is the strong staff,” encapsulating the essence of his theological stance.

As we explore Spurgeon’s insights and juxtapose them with contemporary self-help philosophies, we invite readers to reflect on the profound difference between self-reliance and divine reliance. This examination will illuminate the pitfalls of the self-savior myth and the ultimate truth of relying on God for strength and direction.

Spurgeon on Self and Christ

In his teachings, Charles Spurgeon employs powerful metaphors to convey his perspective on human frailty and divine support. He famously describes self as a ‘broken reed’, signifying its inherent weakness and inability to provide lasting support. This metaphor illustrates a profound truth: relying on oneself is ultimately futile and can lead to spiritual collapse.

Spurgeon highlights the limitations of self-reliance, admonishing believers against viewing their personal strength as sufficient. Instead, he presents Christ as the ‘strong staff.’ This imagery conveys the idea that while self may falter under pressure, Christ stands firm, offering unwavering support and guidance. As Spurgeon poignantly states, ‘Self is a broken reed, Christ is the strong staff.’ This assertion encapsulates his belief that true strength comes not from within but through faith in Jesus.

The metaphorical language Spurgeon utilizes serves to contrast human limitations with divine capability. By portraying self as a broken reed, he emphasizes the fragility of human effort in the face of life’s challenges. In contrast, Christ, as the strong staff, symbolizes stability and resilience. Spurgeon urges believers to recognize that their true source of help lies in their relationship with Christ, who understands human struggle and offers comfort in times of need.

In a world saturated with self-help ideologies, Spurgeon’s teachings remind us of the profound truth that relying on Christ is paramount. His insights encourage believers to embrace their vulnerabilities while leaning on the strength of the One who is always there to support them, reinforcing the idea that true help comes from the Lord.

Secular Self-Help’s Self-Savior Myth

Philip Rieff’s analysis of modern selfhood frames the individual as its own savior, emphasizing a troubling shift towards a self-centered therapeutic agenda. He critiques how contemporary culture often places personal desires above moral authority, leading to a fragmented sense of self. Rieff argues that, in the absence of creeds and communal moral norms, individuals are left to navigate their own paths without the guiding principles that once provided structure. This perspective starkly contrasts with Charles Spurgeon’s theological stance, which underscores the necessity of divine grace and adherence to God’s commandments.

Rieff’s concern about the loss of inner constraints resonates with Spurgeon’s belief that true identity and purpose are found in reliance on God. While Rieff sees modernity’s focus on self as empowering, it often results in a culture devoid of deep moral foundations. In this light, Spurgeon’s emphasis on community and accountability reveals the limitations of a self-help framework that prioritizes individualism over collective support.

Aspect	Philip Rieff	Charles Spurgeon
View of Self	Self as its own savior	Self reliant on God’s grace
Moral Authority	Lacks deep moral foundations	Rooted in divine authority
Community	Individualistic	Emphasizes community support

The implications of relying solely on self-help can be profound. Such an approach often breeds a culture of shame and failure, particularly when individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds internalize the belief that they alone are responsible for their success. This self-salvation narrative can lead to feelings of isolation and inadequacy, as structural barriers are ignored. In contrast, Spurgeon’s framework calls for a reliance on divine authority and community support, fostering a more holistic understanding of personal development.

Carnegie vs. Christ

Dale Carnegie’s seminal work, How to Win Friends and Influence People, provides a practical toolkit for interpersonal relationships. His principles, such as avoiding criticism and showing appreciation, emphasize the importance of kindness and understanding in forging connections. For instance, Carnegie advocates for genuinely being interested in others and listening actively, which can foster deeper relationships. He even notes that a simple smile can work wonders in establishing rapport.

However, while Carnegie’s methods are rooted in social skills and personal development, Charles Haddon Spurgeon presents a contrasting view. Spurgeon emphasizes that true friendship is intrinsically linked to one’s relationship with Jesus Christ. He posits that Christ exemplifies the ultimate source of genuine companionship, stating, “There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” This indicates that while Carnegie’s techniques can enhance social engagement, they lack the profound spiritual foundation that Spurgeon champions.

Spurgeon asserts, “Self is a broken reed; Christ is the strong staff,” highlighting the reliability of divine friendship over worldly methods.

For Spurgeon, authentic friendship is not merely about effective communication but is centered on fidelity and deep spiritual bonds. In his view, the joy and support found in friendship are best realized through faith in Christ, who offers unwavering love even in times of trouble. This distinction underscores a significant difference: while Carnegie provides a roadmap for social success, Spurgeon’s perspective elevates friendship to a divine connection that transcends mere human interactions.

Descartes and the Self

René Descartes, a pivotal 17th-century philosopher, is renowned for his assertion, “I think, therefore I am” (or cogito ergo sum). This foundational statement seeks to establish certainty in the existence of the self through the act of thinking. Descartes argues that the very ability to doubt or question one’s existence proves that there is a thinker behind those thoughts. His philosophical approach, rooted in methodic doubt, emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and consciousness as the essence of being.

However, Charles Haddon Spurgeon presents a compelling counterpoint to Descartes’ philosophy with his declaration, “I believe, therefore I live.” For Spurgeon, the act of faith in Christ transcends mere thought, positioning belief as the foundation of true existence. This theological perspective contrasts sharply with Descartes’ focus on rational thought. The philosophical implications of these two statements are profound:

Self-awareness vs. Faith: Descartes highlights the importance of self-awareness as a proof of existence, while Spurgeon emphasizes faith as the key to spiritual life.
Rationalism vs. Theism: Descartes’ rationalism relies on doubt and inquiry, whereas Spurgeon’s theistic view suggests that certainty comes from divine trust.
Mind-Body Dualism vs. Holistic Existence: Descartes promotes a dualism between mind and body, while Spurgeon advocates for a unified existence rooted in belief and relationship with God.

These contrasting views reflect broader philosophical debates about the nature of the self, knowledge, and existence. Descartes’ focus on the thinking self raises questions about the reliability of reason, while Spurgeon’s emphasis on belief underscores a deeper, spiritual understanding of what it means to truly live.

Lincoln’s Perspective

Abraham Lincoln, one of America’s most revered presidents, often grappled with the moral complexities of his time. His religious beliefs were nuanced and evolved throughout his life. While he was never formally affiliated with a church, he held a profound respect for the moral teachings of Christianity. In many of his speeches, Lincoln made references to God and divine providence, illustrating his belief that the nation was guided by a higher power.

Lincoln famously expressed his concern about being on God’s side rather than worrying whether God was on his. This sentiment reflects a deep understanding of humility and the moral imperative that leaders must adhere to divine principles. In his Second Inaugural Address, Lincoln articulated the idea that the Civil War was a divine test—a punishment for the nation’s sins and a call for moral reckoning. His perspective underscores a belief that true governance and justice are rooted in alignment with God’s will.

This aligns closely with Charles Spurgeon’s affirmation of true self-help through divine alignment. Spurgeon, a prominent preacher, often emphasized the idea that self-reliance is insufficient. Instead, he believed that true strength and help come from a relationship with Christ. Just as Lincoln sought to be on God’s side, Spurgeon asserted that individuals must align themselves with divine guidance to find true fulfillment and purpose in life. For further insights, one can explore Spurgeon’s teachings on this matter.

Both figures invite us to reconsider the notion of self-help. Rather than looking inward or relying solely on human wisdom, they challenge us to seek a higher power for guidance and support. This perspective is essential in an age where secular self-help movements often promote individualism over spiritual alignment.

FAQ on Secular Self-Help and Spurgeon

Understanding the nuances of secular self-help and Spurgeon’s critiques can often lead to misconceptions. Here are some frequently asked questions that clarify these themes:

What does Spurgeon think about self-help movements? Spurgeon critiques self-help movements by emphasizing that true assistance comes from a deep understanding of Scripture and a personal relationship with Christ. He believes self-reliance falls short of meeting spiritual needs.
Is secular self-help simply a lack of religion? No, secular self-help is not just an absence of religion. It offers a distinct worldview that promotes personal growth and ethical behavior, standing independently from religious frameworks. This misconception is addressed in detail by Humanists UK.
Do secular individuals lack moral values? This is a common misconception. Secular self-help advocates that ethical behavior can exist outside of religious contexts, emphasizing personal responsibility and moral development, as noted in the same source.
Can secular self-help be taught effectively? Absolutely. Just as one can learn a language from a non-native speaker, secular self-help principles can be effectively taught by individuals without a religious background, countering the belief that only the religious can impart these teachings.
What is the importance of self-examination according to Spurgeon? Spurgeon stresses the necessity of self-examination for all individuals, including ministers. He advocates for personal belief and accountability, urging people to assess their faith and relationship with God regularly, as highlighted in his sermon ‘An All-Important Question’.

These questions highlight the importance of understanding both Spurgeon’s theological stance and the misconceptions surrounding secular self-help. By clarifying these points, we can engage in a more informed discussion about personal development and spiritual reliance.

Conclusion

Throughout this exploration, we have seen Charles Spurgeon’s profound rejection of secular self-help movements. Spurgeon viewed self-help as an inadequate substitute for the deep, transformative power of faith in Christ. He emphasized that true help is not found in self-reliance but in the profound understanding of God’s Word and His promises. Spurgeon challenged the notion that individuals could navigate life’s challenges alone, advocating instead for a reliance on divine grace.

Spurgeon firmly believed that secular frameworks often miss the essential spiritual dimension needed for genuine personal growth. He argued that while secular self-help may offer strategies for improvement, it lacks the comprehensive solutions found solely in the teachings of Scripture. Spurgeon’s perspective serves as a reminder that human efforts, no matter how well-intentioned, are ultimately insufficient without divine intervention.

In his ministry, Spurgeon frequently highlighted the importance of community and accountability within the church. He cautioned against isolating personal struggles from the support and fellowship that come from being part of a faith community. For him, the journey of faith is not one of solitary self-improvement but a collective pursuit of holiness and reliance on Christ.

Ultimately, Spurgeon’s teachings reaffirm that the path to true fulfillment lies not in ephemeral self-help strategies but in a deep and abiding trust in God. Embracing this reliance on divine grace, believers can find strength and hope amidst life’s trials, transforming their struggles into opportunities for spiritual growth.