Devils in Their Homes!
A true Christian's character is revealed in their domestic relationships, and obedience to God in these areas is a demonstration of true piety and godliness.
Thomas Brooks emphasizes that true Christianity is demonstrated through one's behavior in domestic relationships, arguing that many may appear godly in public but fail to embody that same piety at home. He warns that a person's true character is revealed in their private life, where many may act like 'devils' despite their public persona. Brooks asserts that fulfilling domestic duties with diligence and sincerity is a stronger indicator of genuine faith than public displays of religion. He encourages believers to strive for godliness within their homes, as this reflects their true relationship with God.
Text
A true Christian will endeavor to obey God in relative
duties. He will not only hear, and pray, and read, and
meditate, and fast, and mourn--but he will labor to
be godly in domestic relationships.
Remember this forever--everyone is that in reality,
which he is at home. Many make a great profession,
and have great abilities and gifts, and can discourse well
on any pious subject--whose homes are not little heavens,
but little hells. Some are very much like angels in public,
saints in the church, and devils in their homes!
Domestic graces and duties do better demonstrate true
piety and godliness, than public or general duties do. For
pride, vain-glory, self-ends, and a hundred other outward
carnal considerations, may put a man upon the general duties
of religion. But it argues both truth and strength of grace, to
be diligent and conscientious in the discharge of domestic
duties.
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Domestic Relationships
- The Contrast Between Public and Domestic Behavior
- Many people are like angels in public, but devils in their homes
- Pride and self-interest can lead to hypocrisy in public duties
Key Quotes
“Everyone is that in reality, which he is at home.” — Thomas Brooks
“Many make a great profession, and have great abilities and gifts, and can discourse well on any pious subject--whose homes are not little heavens, but little hells.” — Thomas Brooks
“Some are very much like angels in public, saints in the church, and devils in their homes!” — Thomas Brooks
Application Points
- Prioritize obedience to God in all areas of life, including domestic relationships.
- Be diligent and conscientious in the discharge of domestic duties to demonstrate true piety and godliness.
- Recognize the potential for hypocrisy in public duties and strive to live a consistent life of faith.