Troubled for Sin
A hypocrite may be troubled by the effects of sin, but not by its inherent evil, leading to severe consequences.
Thomas Brooks addresses the distinction between true repentance and hypocritical sorrow for sin, emphasizing that while a hypocrite may feel troubled by the consequences of sin, such as damage to reputation or fear of punishment, they lack genuine mourning or hatred for sin itself. True sorrow for sin arises from an understanding of its nature and its offense against God, rather than merely its effects on oneself. Brooks calls for a deeper recognition of sin's defilement and its separation from God's holiness, urging believers to cultivate a true hatred for sin that reflects God's own nature.
Text
A hypocrite may be troubled for sin--as it . . . blots his name, and wounds his conscience, and brings a scourge, and destroys his soul, and shuts him out of heaven, and throws him to hell. But he is never troubled for sin, he never mourns for sin, he never hates sin--because it is contrary to the nature of God, the being of God, the law of God, the glory of God, the design of God; or because of the evil that is in the nature of sin, or because of the defiling and polluting power of sin.
Sermon Outline
- The Nature of Sin
- The Effects of Sin
- The Consequences of Sin
- Shuts Him Out of Heaven
- Throws Him to Hell
- Destroys His Soul
Key Quotes
“A hypocrite may be troubled for sin--as it blots his name, and wounds his conscience, and brings a scourge, and destroys his soul, and shuts him out of heaven, and throws him to hell.” — Thomas Brooks
Application Points
- Recognize the true nature of sin and its effects on one's life.
- Understand the consequences of sin, including separation from God and eternal damnation.
- Mourn for and hate sin, not just its consequences.