Pythagorus Three Classes of Humanity
A.W. Tozer explores Pythagoras' three classes of humanity and their relevance in modern society.
A.W. Tozer explores Pythagoras' classification of humanity into three groups: seekers after knowledge, honor, and gain. He critiques modern society, noting that seekers of knowledge have become scholars and scientists obsessed with accumulating information, while seekers of honor are likened to politicians who crave public recognition and manipulate public sentiment for votes. Lastly, he addresses seekers of gain, contrasting honest businessmen with those who engage in illegal activities, highlighting a moral equivalence between them despite their social differences. Tozer's sermon challenges listeners to reflect on their own pursuits and the motivations behind them.
Text
The Greek philosopher Pythagoras is said to have divided men into three classes: 1. Seekers after knowledge. 2. Seekers after honor. 3. Seekers after gain. It would be interesting if not too edifying to look for Pythagoras three classes in modern society. 1. Seekers after knowledge. These are no longer called philosophers, lovers of wisdom, but scholars, professors, scientists, who love knowledge for itself. These are intellectual magpies with a compulsive tic that drives them to collect all the shiny bits of knowledge possible; fortunately for them there are enough others with the same tic to provide them with a means of making some kind of a living here below. 2. Seekers after honor.
These are the politicians.
They have an incurable itch to be known in the gates, and as a means toward this end they manage to work up a convincing if phony patriotic fever every four or six years that brings them votes and enables them to ride in the front car in the Memorial parade. Their reward is in being applauded by the masses they secretly despise, and verily they have their reward. 3. Seekers after gain. These are at the top honest businessmen who become wealthy within the law, and at the bottom racketeers who gain their wealth outside the law. Morally these latter differ not at all from the ordinary bandit, but they differ socially because they are smarter, have read a book and know a better lawyer.
Sermon Outline
- Pythagoras' Three Classes of Humanity
- Seekers after knowledge
- Seekers after honor
- Seekers after gain
Key Quotes
“Their reward is in being applauded by the masses they secretly despise, and verily they have their reward.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- We should be aware of our own motivations and desires, and ensure they align with our values and principles.
- Seeking knowledge and wisdom for its own sake is a noble pursuit, but it can also be a distraction from more important things.
- Pursuing honor and recognition can lead to empty rewards and a lack of true fulfillment.