This sermon emphasizes how skillful the devil is in deceiving people to exchange their eternal inheritance for temporary desires, leading them to waste their lives and lose their souls. It highlights the tragic consequences of being tricked out of one's soul and the importance of staying devoted to Christ amidst spiritual battles and deceptions.

This sermon delves into the essence of the New Covenant as depicted in Matthew chapter 3, emphasizing the crucial act of turning from the Kingdom of Earth to the Kingdom of Heaven to truly embrace the New Covenant. It highlights the significance of setting our minds on heavenly things while engaging with earthly responsibilities, illustrating the analogy of a rubber band to depict this balance. The sermon also underscores the importance of having a clear goal in life that aligns with heavenly purposes to distinguish between living as a sinner or a saint.

This sermon addresses the importance of taking care of our bodies and avoiding unhealthy eating habits, focusing on the struggle to resist temptations and the need to prioritize physical health for spiritual well-being. The speaker shares personal struggles with weight and emphasizes the parallel between physical and spiritual health, highlighting the impact of neglecting the body on overall well-being.

Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of finding true satisfaction and peace in God rather than in worldly concerns, particularly for young people who often fret about their future. He encourages them to devote their hearts fully to God, assuring that if they seek Him first, everything else will fall into place. The sermon highlights the need to prioritize following Jesus over seeking the approval of others, as true discipleship requires a willingness to lay aside personal ambitions and societal pressures. Beach also addresses the dangers of being captivated by health, wealth, and family, urging believers to seek freedom from these distractions to fully embrace their relationship with Christ.

The preacher delves into the concept of 'Destruction' (apoleia) in the Bible, emphasizing that it signifies the utter and hopeless loss of all that gives worth to existence, rather than annihilation. Apoleia can result from disregard for value or from personal ruin due to rejecting redemption through Christ. It speaks of the loss of everything that makes human existence worthwhile, not loss of being but loss of well-being, especially in the eternal 'destruction' visited on the ungodly. The sermon highlights various Bible verses that warn against destruction, emphasizing the consequences of setting one's mind on earthly things and the shame of glorying in sinful behavior.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the paramount importance of prioritizing the eternal welfare of our souls over earthly concerns. He argues that it is foolish to nourish the body while neglecting the soul, equating this neglect to madness. Brooks warns that those who prioritize their physical needs above their spiritual well-being risk losing everything of true value, including God and eternal glory. He urges listeners to diligently care for their souls, as true comfort in life and confidence in death hinge on this vital work.

A.B. Simpson emphasizes the necessity of denying ungodliness by rejecting the flesh, the world, and self-love, advocating for a life of holy self-denial that is essential for obedience to God. He highlights that true faith involves a significant commitment to say 'yes' to God while simultaneously saying 'no' to earthly desires and selfishness. Simpson points out that many commandments are framed as prohibitions, illustrating that love often manifests in what it does not do. The essence of consecration lies in recognizing that we do not belong to ourselves but to God alone, reinforcing the call to live a life dedicated to Him.

George Fox emphasizes the significance of aligning marriages with the light of Christ, warning against unions formed in opposition to this divine guidance. He asserts that those who act contrary to this light are aware of their wrongdoings and face condemnation. True marriages, according to Fox, are those joined by God through His light, which should not be separated by man. He highlights that such unions are honorable and blessed, reflecting God's command and power. Ultimately, Fox calls for a commitment to the divine light in all relationships.

John Wesley emphasizes the profound question posed by Jesus in Matthew 16:26, urging listeners to consider the futility of gaining worldly riches at the expense of their souls. He explores the implications of 'gaining the whole world'—pleasures, honors, and wealth—contrasting it with the devastating loss of one's soul, which leads to eternal separation from God. Wesley argues that true happiness is found in a life of love and faith, rather than in worldly pursuits, and he challenges his audience to make a conscious choice for eternal life over temporary gains. He concludes with a passionate call to choose life and adhere to that choice, promising a crown of righteousness for those who persevere in faith.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the tragic choice of the Gergesenes, who preferred their worldly possessions over the presence of Christ, illustrating how an inordinate love for the world can lead to spiritual barrenness. He warns that when hearts are filled with worldly desires—be it wealth, pleasure, or honor—there is no room for divine growth or comfort. Brooks highlights the folly of choosing temporary gains over eternal salvation, urging believers to prioritize their relationship with Christ above all else.

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.

John Angell James preaches about the importance of resisting the worldly influences that lead to pride, materialism, and spiritual poverty. He highlights the obsession with wealth, comfort, reputation, and earthly possessions that distract many from pursuing a deeper piety. James emphasizes the need to subdue the desire for worldly elevation, cultivate simplicity, contentment, and moral courage, and prioritize heavenly treasures over earthly pursuits to experience true revival in piety.

Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of worldliness and earthly-mindedness among professing Christians, likening them to worshipers of the golden calf. He emphasizes that the allure of the world is deceptive and ultimately leads to spiritual decay, as true fulfillment can only be found in God. Brooks illustrates that an inordinate love for worldly things can sever one's communion with God, urging believers to seek a greater glory rather than being captivated by vanity. He reminds us that the things of this world are ultimately worthless in the eyes of eternity, and that true richness comes from a relationship with God.

Thomas Brooks warns against the folly of prioritizing worldly pleasures over eternal values, emphasizing that the heart of fools is consumed by trivial pursuits rather than the salvation of their souls. He illustrates this with the example of foolish people who value insignificant items over great treasures, highlighting the absurdity of neglecting spiritual concerns for temporary gains. Brooks calls for reflection on how many live as if the world is a house of fools, chasing after fleeting honors and riches while ignoring the eternal significance of their choices.

George Fox emphasizes the distinction between true ministers of Christ and those who misuse scripture for personal gain. He warns against supporting those who demand tithes without providing spiritual nourishment, arguing that such practices contradict Christ's teachings. Fox highlights the importance of recognizing the unchangeable priesthood of Christ and the new covenant, which frees believers from the obligations of the old priesthood. He encourages believers to support genuine ministers who preach the gospel freely, while rejecting those who exploit their positions for financial gain. Ultimately, Fox calls for discernment in spiritual matters and a commitment to Christ's doctrine.

St. John Climacus delivers a sermon on the dangers of gluttony, highlighting how it leads to hypocrisy, excess, and a lack of self-control. He emphasizes the importance of mortifying the stomach to achieve purity and spiritual enrichment, contrasting the monk's focus on food with the servant of God's pursuit of grace. St. John warns against the temptations of the stomach, urging believers to master their desires and practice temperance to avoid falling into the traps of gluttony and fornication.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the folly of exchanging eternal spiritual treasures for temporary worldly pleasures, likening it to trading a precious pearl for a mere pin. He warns that unholy individuals, like natural fools, prioritize fleeting desires over their souls, trading away their relationship with God and the promise of heaven for trivial gains. The sermon challenges listeners to reflect on the true value of their souls and the eternal consequences of their choices.

Charles Finney addresses ministers of the Gospel, urging them to reflect on the current state of the Church, which he perceives as being ensnared by sensuality, materialism, and division. He highlights the detrimental effects of conformity to worldly standards and the prevalence of selfishness among believers, which undermines true piety and faith. Finney expresses concern over the Church's inefficiency in evangelism and warns that their behavior may contradict the very gospel they profess. He calls for a return to genuine faith and a focus on spiritual rather than earthly pursuits, emphasizing the need for unity among denominations. His message is a heartfelt plea for ministers to lead with humility and a commitment to the true essence of the Gospel.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the grave danger of prioritizing worldly pleasures over the eternal soul, warning that many are so captivated by earthly delights that they risk losing their spiritual essence. He illustrates this peril with the Arabic proverb that likens those who chase after worldly gains to dogs, highlighting the folly of valuing transient, carnal satisfaction over the eternal joys found in holiness and communion with God. Brooks calls for a reevaluation of priorities, urging believers to seek the true treasures of heaven rather than the empty pursuits of this life.

Charles Finney addresses ministers of the Gospel, urging them to recognize the detrimental influence of sensuality and poor physical habits on their spiritual lives and the Church. He emphasizes the connection between physical health and spiritual vitality, warning that neglecting this relationship leads to backsliding and a lack of spirituality among ministers. Finney calls for a reformation in dietetic habits and a deeper understanding of the body's influence on the mind, asserting that true spirituality cannot flourish without addressing these issues. He laments the silence of the ministry on these matters and encourages ministers to lead by example in their personal and family lives. Ultimately, he stresses the need for ministers to be aware of their influence and to uphold the principles of the Gospel in all aspects of life.

A.W. Tozer addresses the troubling state of evangelicalism, likening it to a patient with an undiagnosed illness. He identifies a spiritual disorder characterized by dual orientation, where individuals struggle to align their life purpose with their faith. This internal conflict leads to a disconnection between their beliefs and actions, resulting in a divided focus between God and worldly interests. Tozer emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of this spiritual malaise, as many are caught between two conflicting values, ultimately hindering their spiritual growth and effectiveness.

D.L. Moody emphasizes the importance of not quenching the Holy Spirit, warning that the cares of this world can hinder our relationship with God. He explains that anything that comes between us and God, including family, wealth, and personal desires, can stifle the Spirit's work in our lives. Moody urges believers to prioritize their love for God above all else, as loving anything more than God leads to spiritual stagnation. He calls for a deep reflection on what may be quenching the Spirit within us and encourages a return to placing God first in our hearts.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the critical choice presented by Christ to the young man in the Gospel, who was offered eternal treasures in exchange for his earthly possessions. Despite the promise of heavenly rewards, the young man chose to prioritize his temporary wealth, ultimately missing out on salvation. Brooks warns that many people today similarly squander their time and opportunities for eternal life, choosing fleeting pleasures over lasting fulfillment. The sermon serves as a call to recognize the value of spiritual over material wealth and to seize the opportunities for salvation before they slip away.

John Chrysostom preaches on the significance of the wise men from the East seeking Jesus, emphasizing the divine intervention through the star to lead them to the newborn King of the Jews. He delves into the unique nature of the star, highlighting its miraculous movements and purpose to reprove the Jews for their insensibility and to open the door to the Gentiles. Chrysostom challenges the audience to reflect on their own actions and attitudes, urging them to prioritize repentance, compunction, and sobriety over indulgence in worldly pleasures and sinful entertainment. He warns against the dangers of immorality, blasphemy, and complacency, emphasizing the need for a contrite heart, self-restraint, and reverence in the face of spiritual warfare and impending judgment.

Derek Prince warns against individuals who use deceitful tactics to manipulate and persuade others for their own selfish gain, emphasizing the importance of discerning the true motives behind people's actions. He highlights the destructive consequences that await those who engage in such behavior, as they will ultimately face judgment and sudden destruction without remedy. Prince urges listeners to be cautious of those who do not bring the peace of God with them, as their words and actions may be driven by ulterior motives rather than genuine care for others.