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  RICH FELIX HAD NO LEISURE TO HEAR POOR PAUL
  by Thomas Brooks
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Summary: Thomas Brooks warns against the spiritual dangers of pursuing
wealth, using the example of Felix who neglected his soul for riches.

Topics: "The Pursuit of God", "Wealth vs. Spirituality"
Scripture References: Proverbs 23:4

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DESCRIPTION
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Thomas Brooks emphasizes the futility of pursuing wealth at the expense
of spiritual well-being, illustrating how the pursuit of riches can lead
to a heart that is distant from God. He reflects on the biblical account
of Felix, who, consumed by his desire for status and wealth, neglected
the opportunity to hear Paul preach about righteousness and judgment.
Brooks warns that those who are determined to be rich often overlook
divine matters, leading to spiritual barrenness and a lack of true
fulfillment. The sermon serves as a reminder that earthly riches are
fleeting and can distract us from eternal truths.

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CONTENT
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"Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom

to show restraint. Cast but a glance at riches, and they

are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off

to the sky like an eagle." Proverbs 23:4-5

The only thing certain about riches--is that they are

uncertain.

Oh the deadness, the barrenness, the listlessness, the

heartlessness to anything that is divine and heavenly--

which always attends such professors who are resolved

to be rich, or great, or somebody in the world! Oh the

time, the thoughts, the strength, the spirits that these

men spend upon the world--while their souls lie a-bleeding,

and eternity is hastening upon them! Men who are highly

and fully resolved to be rich--will certainly forget God,

undervalue Christ, grieve the Spirit, slight ordinances,

and neglect such gracious opportunities as might make

them happy forever. Rich Felix had no leisure to

hear poor Paul, though the hearing of a sermon

might have saved his soul. "As Paul discoursed on

righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come,

Felix was afraid and said--That's enough for now! You

may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for

you." Acts 24:24-25

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/thomas-brooks/rich-felix-had-no-leisure-to-hear-poor-paul/
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