CXLV expository sermons upon the whole 17th chapter of the Gospel according to St.…

In the last place this is far to be desired above all humane glory,¹ and that although it be the Idol adored by the world, if we consider how most men refer all their actions to this; We may presently judge that description of man to be true; That he is animal gloriae vanissimum, all those actions the Heathens did were dedicated to honour; Even as the Romans consecrated a Temple to it, yea, which is the highest degree of vanity, men have made all their Religious actions to serve this Goddess; The Pharisees in all their alms, fastings and prayers did all to be seen of men, as our Saviour who knew their hearts condemned them, Mat. 6.2. It went so far with some that they placed the chiefest happiness of a man to be in honour, and how prone this is to keep in the hearts even of godly men, appeareth in the often prohibitions of it in the Scripture, and our Saviours advice about private Prayer and alms; This is the Pirate that many times surpriseth the Ship which is come richly laden to the very haven, it depriveth us of our duties, and the benefit by them; Well, as glorious as it is, yet it is no more comparable to this eternal glory, then a straw ⟨p. 148⟩to a Pearl;² For 1. It's but the puff and breath of men whose breath is in their nostrils; There is no solidity in it, it brings no true solid joy and peace to the conscience: What if men applaud thee abroad, and thy conscience condemneth thee at home; No doubt but the Pharisees humoured and flattered Judas to betray his Master, but what could that help him when he roared out, I have sinned in betraying the innocent blood, Gal. 5. Let every man prove his own work, so shall he have rejoicing in himself, and not in another, That is terrible of Austin, Many are praised of men who lie tormented in hell.

In the last place this is farre to be desired above all humane glory,¹ and that although it be the Idol adored by the world, if we consider how most men referre all their actions to this; We may presently judge that description of man to be true; That he is animal gloriae vanissimum, all those actions the Heathens did were dedicated to honour; Even as the Romans consecrated a Temple to it, yea, which is the highest degree of vanity, men have made all their Religious actions to serve this Goddesse; The Pharisees in all their alms, fastings and praiers did all to be seen of men, as our Saviour who knew their hearts condemned them,