Far Greater Worth
The value of a single grain of grace far surpasses the worth of all worldly riches.
Thomas Brooks emphasizes that even the smallest amount of grace is far more valuable than all the riches of the world, such as gold and silver, which are ultimately burdensome. He illustrates that true satisfaction comes from the riches of Christ rather than material wealth, which can lead to discontent and anxiety. Brooks uses the example of Abraham's wealth to show that riches can be heavy burdens, and he recounts the story of Pheraulus, who preferred a simple life over the stress of great wealth. The sermon calls worldly individuals to reflect on the true worth of grace compared to earthly riches.
Text
One grain of grace is of far greater worth, than all the
gold of Ophir and all the silver of the Indies--which are
but the guts and garbage of the earth. The gleanings,
the smallest gatherings of the riches of Christ, are far
better, more excellent, more satisfying, more contenting,
more ravishing--than all the riches of this world. Riches
are called thick clay, Hab. 2:6, which will sooner break
the back, than lighten the heart. The wise merchant,
Matthew 13:44-45, parts with all to gain this Pearl of
great price. The truth is, other riches are but a burden.
Genesis 13:2, "Abraham was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold."
The Hebrew is, "He was very heavy in cattle, in silver, and in gold"--
to signify, that riches are but heavy burdens.
Pheraulus, a poor man, on whom Cyrus bestowed so much,
that he knew not what to do with his riches--being wearied
out with care in keeping of them--he desired rather to live
quietly, though poor, as he had done before, than to possess
all those riches with discontent. Therefore he gave away all
his wealth, desiring only to enjoy so much as might supply
his necessities.
Let worldly professors think seriously of this story and blush.
A little will satisfy nature,
less will satisfy grace,
nothing will satisfy men's lusts.
Sermon Outline
- I. The Value of Grace
- A. Greater than worldly riches
- B. Riches are but a burden
- C. The wise merchant parts with all to gain the Pearl of great price
- II. The Nature of Riches
- A. Riches are heavy burdens
- B. A little will satisfy nature
- C. Less will satisfy grace, nothing will satisfy men's lusts
Key Quotes
“One grain of grace is of far greater worth, than all the gold of Ophir and all the silver of the Indies--which are but the guts and garbage of the earth.” — Thomas Brooks
“A little will satisfy nature, less will satisfy grace, nothing will satisfy men's lusts.” — Thomas Brooks
Application Points
- Recognize the true value of a single grain of grace and prioritize it above worldly riches.
- Understand that riches can be a burden and may lead to discontent.
- Seek to live a simple life and be content with what you have, rather than striving for more.