September 1966

One must ask themselves if they are wise by worldly standards and if they understand life’s fundamental issues. In this sermon on 1 Corinthians 3:18–20 titled “The Wisdom of the World,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones addresses worldly wisdom in light of Paul’s words to the Corinthians. The world has rejected the gospel for centuries, and its rejection of the gospel is nothing new. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a complete contrast to what humans think of themselves by nature. Dr. Lloyd-Jones preaches that humanity always seeks to advance itself and improve itself. The gospel, in contrast, knows that humankind needs rebirth, and this must be done by the Spirit. The gospel cannot be changed or modified, since it is perfect and complete in every way. The fundamental problem with humankind’s solutions, Dr. Lloyd-Jones preaches, is that humankind’s solutions originate in the human mind. God’s solution transcends human reason and offers the only hope for humanity’s salvation. Dr. Lloyd-Jones mentions that H.G. Wells, a popular author and philosopher, had his own philosophical solutions, but still was devastated by the reality of World War II, and extremely destitute at the end of his life. A person can only be made wise after admitting they are a fool.

What does it mean to reflect the glory of Christ? In this sermon from 2 Corinthians 3:18, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones expounds on this question. He says that man was created good and in the image of God. But man was tempted to sin by the serpent and rebelled against God. While man is still in the image of God, he is nevertheless full of sin and immorality. But in the Gospel, God has sent His only Son in order that the grip of sin upon all of creation might be destroyed and sinners would be adopted into the family of God. God is recreating humanity according to the image of Christ Jesus. What does it mean to reflect the glory of God? It means to be conformed to the image of God. It means to turn away from oneself and trust wholly in Christ. It means that all who believe now seek righteousness and holiness in all aspects of their lives. Do you seek the glory of Christ, or are you still in sin? This sermon calls each and every one of us to ask ourselves this question.

Why is the church in such a dire situation? In this sermon on 1 Samuel 4:22 titled “The Essence of True Religion,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones tells that it is because the church in modern times has lost a sense of God’s presence. Just as in ancient Israel, the glory of the Lord departed when they turned away from God and sinned against Him, so in modern times something similar has taken place in the church. The people of God are no longer aware or sensitive to His presence. What is the answer to this great dilemma? Only by returning to God and by seeking His face can the church become faithful and able to fulfill its mission of preaching the gospel. Christians must reject all forms of materialistic religion that is devoid of true love for God and His word. The church should not try to attract unbelievers by appealing to their fleshly desires and unregenerate minds, but they must pursue true spiritual religion that is focused on God’s word and His glory. What does this sermon mean for the lives of ordinary believers? It is a call for all Christians to seek God according to true religion. It is a call for Christians to seek the presence of God anew in every generation.

What is the foundation in this life? Is it personal possessions or sense of security? People put their hope and base life on many things. In this sermon on 1 Corinthians 3:11 titled “Christ the Foundation,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says that any foundation in life that is not Jesus Christ is doomed to fail. All other foundations are passing and transient; they satisfy, but only temporarily. Jesus Christ is an eternal foundation that can never be shaken. He is a foundation that never leaves His people wanting for more. Christ alone can satisfy one’s deepest needs and desires. It is only Christ who can take away sin and make one a child of God. The greatest tragedy is that many reject Christ as their hope, and turn to everything else that is vain and passing away. Christ calls His people to turn away from the world and trust solely in His work on the cross for salvation. All other foundations are like sinking sand, but Jesus Christ is God’s appointed means of salvation as the only sure and steady foundation for all who believe.