Gold coinage is composed of 90 parts gold to 10 parts silver. But counterfeit gold, or “fools gold,” is made of iron pyrite, which is a mineral composed of iron sulfide. The mineral is brass yellow or opaque and has a metallic luster. The resemblance of pyrite to gold caused many prospectors to mistake it for gold. However, it is easily distinguished by its unusual brittleness.


Iron pyrite was used in ancient Rome to create sparks when struck with steel. In the 16th and 17th centuries, it was used as a source of ignition in firearms. The name “pyrite” comes from the Greek word “pur,” which means “fire.” Some pyrite has a brass color and has been nicknamed “brass,” “brazzle,” or “Brazil.”

Zephaniah, an Old Testament prophet, warned the people of Judah in the days of Josiah that the great day of the Lord would come upon them. They said, “The Lord will not do good, Nor will He do evil” (Zephaniah1:12). But the prophet answered, “Neither their silver nor their gold Shall be able to deliver them In the day of the Lord’s wrath; But the whole land shall be devoured By the fire of His jealousy” (v. 18).

The prophet’s message was not intended to lead them to despair but to wake them up and call them to repentance. They carried around with them a belief that “nothing is going to happen, don’t worry, this too shall pass.” Like fool’s gold in their pockets, they assumed they were secure in their false riches. But the destruction of Jerusalem came like the flood and swept everyone away.

Today we also can be fooled in spiritual truth. Millions of people are toting around heavy bags bulging with fool’s gold. They rejoice that they have discovered that which will make them rich, but though it sparkles on the outside it will be discovered useless at the bank of heaven. Make sure you have the real thing!

KEY BIBLE TEXTS
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Ephesians 2:8