A Great Nothing
Thomas Brooks' sermon 'A Great Nothing' explores the emptiness of worldly honor and the importance of humility and eternal values.
Thomas Brooks emphasizes that worldly honor and glory are ultimately meaningless, describing them as mere illusions and shadows that lead one away from true fulfillment. He illustrates this point by referencing historical figures like Adonibezek, Nebuchadnezzar, and Herod, who all experienced a fall from greatness, highlighting the transient nature of earthly accolades. Brooks warns that the pursuit of such honors can lead to spiritual ruin, as they are akin to a deceptive wind that can swiftly carry one to destruction. The sermon serves as a reminder to seek lasting value in spiritual matters rather than the fleeting recognition of the world.
Text
"The next day Agrippa and Bernice arrived at the auditorium
with great pomp." Acts 25:23. That is, with great phantasy
or vain show. All the honor, pomp, and accolade of this world
is but a phantasy. Worldly honor is but a great nothing--a
glorious illusion, a shadow, a dream.
Great swelling titles are but as so many rattles, or as
so many feathers in men's caps. Worldly honor is but
a wind, which will blow a man the sooner to hell.
Adonibezek, a mighty prince, is quickly made to eat
scraps from under the table with the dogs. Judges 1:7.
Nebuchadnezzar, a mighty conqueror, turned a-grazing
among the oxen. Daniel 4:28.
Herod is reduced from a conceited god--to be the most
loathsome of men, a living carrion attacked by worms,
the vilest of creatures. Acts 12:23.
Great Haman feasted with the king one day, and
made a feast for crows the next day. Esther 7:10.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Introduction to worldly honor - The illusion of greatness - Scriptural examples of downfall
- II points: - The transient nature of worldly accolades - Comparison to biblical figures - Consequences of pride
- III points: - The ultimate futility of seeking honor - Call to humility - Focus on eternal values
Key Quotes
“Worldly honor is but a great nothing--a glorious illusion, a shadow, a dream.” — Thomas Brooks
“Great swelling titles are but as so many rattles, or as so many feathers in men's caps.” — Thomas Brooks
“All the honor, pomp, and accolade of this world is but a phantasy.” — Thomas Brooks
Application Points
- Reflect on the transient nature of worldly achievements and accolades.
- Cultivate humility by recognizing the ultimate futility of pride.
- Focus on building a legacy based on eternal values rather than temporary honors.