That Golden Devil
The sermon warns against the dangers of covetousness, which can lead to ruin and destruction, and highlights the example of Judas as a cautionary tale.
Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of covetousness, describing it as a 'golden devil' that can lead to spiritual ruin, much like Judas Iscariot, who despite his outwardly righteous life, was ultimately destroyed by his greed. He emphasizes that even the most seemingly righteous actions can be rendered meaningless if one harbors the sin of covetousness in their heart. Brooks highlights the destructive nature of the love of money, which can lead individuals away from their faith and into a life of grief and temptation.
Text
"Covetousness, which is idolatry." Colossians 3:5
Judas' life was as fair and as free from spots and blots as
the lives of any of the apostles; no scandalous sin was to
be found upon him. But that golden devil 'covetousness'
was his sin--and his everlasting ruin. His apostleship,
preaching, working of miracles, hearing of Christ, and
conversing with Him, etc., was to no purpose, because
of that serpent he kept in his bosom--which at last
stung him to death!
"People who want to get rich fall into temptation and
a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that
plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of
money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager
for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced
themselves with many griefs." 1 Timothy 6:9-10
Sermon Outline
- The Dangers of Covetousness
- The Example of Judas
- The Consequences of Loving Money
- The love of money is a root of evil
- It can lead to ruin and destruction
Key Quotes
“Covetousness, which is idolatry.” — Thomas Brooks
“His apostleship, preaching, working of miracles, hearing of Christ, and conversing with Him, etc., was to no purpose, because of that serpent he kept in his bosom--which at last stung him to death!” — Thomas Brooks
“The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” — Thomas Brooks
Application Points
- Be aware of the dangers of covetousness and its potential to lead to ruin and destruction.
- Prioritize your relationship with God above material possessions.
- Avoid the love of money, which can lead to foolish and harmful decisions.