The discipline of study involves carving time out of our “do more” culture to dig deep into the meaning of truth. One of the best places to study what God’s timeless word is speaking to us is to hear how a Christian leader in another time or culture is processing the truth of God’s word. 

Charles Simeon (1759–1836) served as the vicar at Holy Trinity Church in Cambridge, England. He developed a reputation as a gifted pastor and preacher, and was also a significant figure in the missionary movement.

Read Luke 22:31-32, John 10:27-29

Below is an excerpt from Charles Simeon’s “Discourse 1576: The Means of Security from Satan’s Malice”, regarding Luke 22:31-32.

“They who know not Christ, are wholly under the power of Satan; but they who are Christ’s, have a watchful and almighty guardian. Our Lord provided for Peter’s safety, before Peter even knew his danger. Thus ‘will he keep the feet of all his saints.’ He will suffer none of them to be plucked out of his hand. If he permit Satan to sift them, it shall be only for the removing of their chaff. He has pledged his word for the security of the weakest of his people. Let us therefore commit ourselves entirely into his hands. Let us beg him to remember our unworthy names in his intercessions, and to deal with us as with Joshua of old.”

How does what Simeon says here illuminate the Biblical text further for you?

How does Simeon’s teaching on God’s word strengthen and encourage your heart in the face of trials?