Struggle with Sin
Struggle with Sin5
The Choicest Saints
By Thomas Brooks0ROM 7:18Thomas Brooks emphasizes the universal corruption of human nature, asserting that even the choicest saints are not exempt from sin and uncleanness. He explains that godly men, despite their sincere repentance, may repeatedly fall into the same sins due to their inherent weaknesses and the ongoing battle against sin and temptation. Brooks highlights the struggle of the best among us, who carry the burden of corrupt flesh and blood, making them susceptible to the subtle workings of sin and the temptations of Satan.
Sheep or Swine?
By Thomas Brooks0PSA 51:10ROM 7:151CO 10:12GAL 5:17EPH 6:12PHP 3:13HEB 12:1JAS 4:72PE 2:221JN 1:9Thomas Brooks emphasizes the struggle Christians face with sin, noting that even sincere repentance does not guarantee freedom from falling back into the same sins due to the persistent nature of sin in the heart. He reassures believers that while they may repeatedly stumble, God's grace offers forgiveness and understanding, distinguishing between those who fall due to weakness and those who revel in sin. Brooks highlights the importance of recognizing the difference between a repentant heart and a heart that delights in wrongdoing, urging Christians to remain vigilant in their faith.
They Are Not Quite Slain
By Thomas Brooks0PRO 16:18MAT 23:12ROM 7:18GAL 5:17EPH 4:22PHP 2:3COL 3:5JAS 4:61PE 5:51JN 1:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes that while pride and envy are mortally wounded at the moment of a believer's conversion, they are not completely eradicated. He reminds us that even the most devout individuals still struggle with these lingering sins, highlighting the ongoing battle against pride, vain-glory, self-love, and envy that persists in the life of a believer. This sermon serves as a call to recognize and confront these remnants of sin, encouraging believers to seek continual growth and sanctification.
The Best of Saints Are Sinners
By Thomas Brooks0PSA 51:10ROM 7:152CO 5:17GAL 5:17EPH 4:22COL 3:5HEB 12:1JAS 4:71PE 2:111JN 1:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes that even the best of saints are still sinners, but they do not indulge in or cherish sin as the unregenerate do. He illustrates the difference between sin in a regenerate person and sin in an unregenerate person, comparing it to poison in a man versus poison in a serpent. A godly man may struggle with many sins, but he does not have a beloved or cherished sin; instead, he is tormented by his sins and desires to be rid of them. Brooks encourages believers to recognize their struggle against sin and to seek God's help in overcoming it, as true Christians do not willingly submit to sin. Ultimately, he warns that those who habitually indulge in sin are in a state of spiritual danger.
The Old Man
By Thomas Brooks0ROM 7:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the duality within every regenerate man, describing the ongoing struggle between the old man, representing the flesh, and the new man, representing the spirit. He illustrates how the old man can lead to grievous sins, citing examples from biblical figures like Noah, Lot, and David, showing that even the redeemed are not immune to temptation. Brooks warns that the old man's influence can manifest in the will and actions of believers, leading to consent and delight in sin, despite their regeneration. He stresses the importance of recognizing the wounds caused by sin and the necessity of repentance and reliance on the blood of Christ for healing. Ultimately, the sermon calls for vigilance and continual renewal in the life of a Christian.