Painted and Gilded Over
Sin is never less filthy or vile, regardless of its appearance, and we must be aware of Satan's strategy to present it in a disguised form.
Thomas Brooks warns against the deceptive nature of sin, emphasizing that Satan disguises sin with the appearance of virtue to lead us astray. He illustrates that sin remains vile and abominable, regardless of how it is presented, much like a poisonous pill gilded in gold or a wolf in sheep's clothing. Brooks urges believers to recognize the true nature of sin, which can often be hidden beneath attractive exteriors, and to remain vigilant against its allure.
Text
"Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we
are not ignorant of his devices." 2 Corinthians 2:11
Satan knows that if he would present sin in its own nature
and dress, the soul would rather fly from it than yield to it;
and therefore he presents it unto us, not in its own proper
colors--but painted and gilded over with the name and
show of virtue, that we may the more easily be overcome
by it, and take the more pleasure in committing of it.
Consider that sin is never a whit the less filthy, vile, and
abominable--by its being colored and painted with virtue's
colors. A poisonous pill is never a whit the less poisonous
because it is gilded over with gold; nor a wolf is never a
whit the less a wolf because he has put on a sheep's skin;
nor the devil is never a whit the less a devil because he
appears sometimes like an angel of light. So neither is sin
any whit the less filthy and abominable by its being painted
over with virtue's colors.
The most dangerous vermin is too often to be found under
the fairest and sweetest flowers; the fairest glove is often
drawn over the foulest hand; and the richest robes are
often put upon the filthiest bodies. So are the fairest and
sweetest names upon the greatest and the most horrible
vices and errors that be in the world.
Sermon Outline
- The Deception of Sin
- The Nature of Sin
- The Reality of Sin's Appearance
- The most dangerous things can be hidden under beautiful appearances
- 'Examples: vermin under flowers, foul hands in gloves, filthy bodies in rich robes'
Key Quotes
“Satan knows that if he would present sin in its own nature and dress, the soul would rather fly from it than yield to it;” — Thomas Brooks
“A poisonous pill is never a whit the less poisonous because it is gilded over with gold;” — Thomas Brooks
“The most dangerous vermin is too often to be found under the fairest and sweetest flowers;” — Thomas Brooks
Application Points
- Be aware of Satan's strategy to present sin in a disguised form, and do not be deceived by its appearance.
- Remember that sin is never less filthy or vile, regardless of its appearance, and it can lead to great danger and harm.
- Be cautious of things that may seem beautiful or appealing on the surface but may be hiding a darker reality.