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Thomas Brooks
Thomas Brooks (1608 - 1680). English Puritan preacher and author born in Glastonbury, Somerset. Likely educated at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, he entered ministry during the English Civil War, possibly serving as a chaplain in the Parliamentary navy. By 1648, he preached in London, becoming rector of St. Margaret’s, New Fish Street, in 1652, where he ministered through the Great Plague and Great Fire of 1666. A nonconformist, he was ejected in 1662 under the Act of Uniformity but continued preaching privately. Brooks wrote over a dozen works, including Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices (1652) and The Mute Christian Under the Rod, blending practical theology with vivid illustrations. Known for his warm, accessible style, he influenced Puritan spirituality, emphasizing repentance and divine sovereignty. Married twice—first to Martha Burgess in 1640, with whom he had four sons, then to Patience Cartwright—he faced personal loss but remained steadfast. His sermons drew crowds, and his books, reprinted centuries later, shaped Reformed thought. Brooks’ legacy endures through digital archives and reprints for modern readers.
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Sermon Summary
Thomas Brooks emphasizes the deep desire of Christ for communion with His people, illustrating that true happiness for believers lies in being in His presence both now and in heaven. He highlights that Christ's joy is incomplete without His followers, as He longs for them to share in His glory. The ultimate fulfillment of this desire will be realized in heaven, where believers will enjoy perfect fellowship with Christ, beholding His glory without any hindrance. Brooks describes this communion as the 'sparkling diamond in the ring of glory,' signifying its unparalleled value and beauty. The sermon encourages believers to anticipate the joy of eternal communion with Christ.
The Sparkling Diamond in the Ring of Glory!
Christ can never rest satisfied until His gracious communion with His people here, issues in their perfect and glorious communion with Him in heaven. "Father, I want those You have given Me to be with Me where I am, and to see My glory." John 17:24 Christ is very desirous of His people's fellowship and company. It is a part of Christ's joy—that they should be where He is. Christ will not be happy alone. As a tender father, He can enjoy nothing if His children may not have part with Him. Even now—He is always with them . . . to eye their behavior, to hear their prayers, to guide their way, to protect their persons, to cheer their spirits, and to delight with His presence. The greatest part of our happiness, which we shall have in heaven lies in this—that then we shall be with Christ, and have immediate communion with Him. O sirs! the great end of our being in heaven, is to behold and enjoy the glory of Christ! Certainly the glory and happiness of heaven to the elect, will consist much in being in Christ's company, in whom they delight so much on earth. To follow the Lamb wherever He goes, to enjoy Him fully, and to be always in His presence—is the heaven of heaven, the glory of glory! This is the sparkling diamond in the ring of glory! The day is coming wherein believers shall be completely happy in a sight of Christ's glory. When all veils have been laid aside—they shall be fitted for a more full fruition, and shall visibly and immediately behold and enjoy Him! "Father, I want those You have given Me to be with Me where I am, and to see My glory." John 17:24
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Thomas Brooks (1608 - 1680). English Puritan preacher and author born in Glastonbury, Somerset. Likely educated at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, he entered ministry during the English Civil War, possibly serving as a chaplain in the Parliamentary navy. By 1648, he preached in London, becoming rector of St. Margaret’s, New Fish Street, in 1652, where he ministered through the Great Plague and Great Fire of 1666. A nonconformist, he was ejected in 1662 under the Act of Uniformity but continued preaching privately. Brooks wrote over a dozen works, including Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices (1652) and The Mute Christian Under the Rod, blending practical theology with vivid illustrations. Known for his warm, accessible style, he influenced Puritan spirituality, emphasizing repentance and divine sovereignty. Married twice—first to Martha Burgess in 1640, with whom he had four sons, then to Patience Cartwright—he faced personal loss but remained steadfast. His sermons drew crowds, and his books, reprinted centuries later, shaped Reformed thought. Brooks’ legacy endures through digital archives and reprints for modern readers.