© 2024 MLJ Trust
This sermon calls to those who have a tendency to feel down or discouraged about life. It is for those who look around at the world and wonder what good can possibly come from all the evil that seems to run so rampant today. In this sermon, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches from 2 Timothy 1:10, and offers the believer some practical encouragement drawn from Paul’s letter. Timothy, like many believers today, had a tendency for being down, especially with the anticipated death of Paul, his beloved friend and mentor. Knowing this, Paul wrote this encouraging letter to Timothy. His remedy for Timothy’s sadness is to remind him of the gospel. It’s easy to think that things have only been going poorly in the world during this lifetime. However, this evil has been occurring since the beginning of time, and it’s crucial to remember that God has been acting from even before that time. The Christian’s hope and rest is in the gospel because God is in control of it all and through Christ who has cancelled out the effects of sin and death. Christians are those who have been made alive unto God, and thus, can look at this world knowing that there is a perfect world awaiting followers of Jesus upon their deaths. This is the hope that Paul imparted to Timothy and that Dr. Lloyd-Jones wants to give to the listener.
Does the gospel change from person to person? In this sermon on 2 Timothy 2:8 titled “The Only Gospel,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones dives deeper into what the gospel is. In 2 Timothy 2:8, Paul instructs believers to follow “my gospel.” Some have interpreted this to mean that each have their own individual gospel that is based on individual experiences. Yet, as Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows, this cannot be further from the truth — Paul is exhorting Timothy to hold tightly to the unchanging, true gospel that Paul was preaching. What else is he saying in this passage? First, that it is the only gospel. Second, this gospel is to be remembered because it is the meaning of the story of Christ. While some say that claiming to have exclusive truth is “narrow-minded,” Dr. Lloyd-Jones provides some reasons why Christians can rightly claim that this gospel is true. First, if there was any other gospel, the events that occurred in the life of Jesus would not have happened because they would not have been necessary. Second, Jesus is the only one to fulfill the prophecies from the Old Testament about the promised Savior. Third, Jesus is the only one who can really teach about God since He is a person of the Trinity. Fourth, only Jesus could perform the task to accomplish what is needed — salvation, the defeat of enemies, and a guide through life.
Where a person puts their hope in times of great trial tells much about them. In this sermon on 2 Timothy 1:12 titled “Come, Lord Jesus,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains the words the apostle Paul wrote when he was imprisoned and facing death. He encouraged Timothy to stand in the faith that was delivered to the saints: the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul had not lost hope in the face of dire circumstances, but he was encouraging others in the face of his own death. This is what it looks like to trust in Christ until the end. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones shares how this trust is at the heart of the Christian life and is a source of peace. This is because Christians do not have to trust in politics or any other earthly institution for hope. It is Jesus who will return on the last day and bring the new heavens and the new earth. It is Jesus who will banish all sin and darkness, bringing all Christians’ hope to completion. This sermon asks the questions: “Where is your hope? Are you like many who rest in the things of this world? Or are you like the apostle who trusts in the faithfulness of Christ to deliver him in the greatest times of suffering?” There is no more important question than where one’s hope is.
In this sermon on 2 Timothy 1:12 titled “God’s Way of Redemption,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones focuses his sermon on Paul’s letter to Timothy, where the apostle writes from prison and explains his confidence in whom he has believed. Jumping from Paul’s example, Dr. Lloyd-Jones dives into the importance of the gospel. Salvation is more than living morally and making good decisions. It is more than being a “good Christian.” Dr. Lloyd-Jones reminds that salvation is trusting in Jesus Christ and His sacrifice on the cross for the payment of sins. This is God’s plan for the redemption of all since the natural person is corrupt. They are under the power of sin and its total pollution. Humanity’s very nature can’t help responding to sin, Dr. Lloyd-Jones says. On their own, they are unable to overcome their disposition. Good works offer no assurance. Even the great Christian figures like Paul, Martin Luther, and Charles Wesley did not rely on their works for salvation. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that there is a work that saves, but it is not of humanity. The only work that saves is God’s work of sending His Son for humanity’s redemption so they may live eternally.
In this sermon on 1 Timothy 1:15 titled “Salvation for Sinners,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones speaks that at the heart of the Bible is God’s saving message to sinners that promises salvation for all who come and trust in Christ Jesus. Who then are the sinners? Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says that in one sense, anyone who sins is a sinner, and the Bible gives many lists of sins. Adultery, lying, stealing, murder, and many other sins are mentioned in Scripture. While all sin is a violation of God’s law and will be punished, the sin that ultimately condemns to eternal punishment is rejection of Jesus Christ. Apart from Christ, as Dr. Lloyd-Jones proclaims, there is no way to be forgiven. Listen as he explains the nature of sin, and more importantly, shares the good news of salvation from all sin and forgiveness in Christ.
The gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ was continuously on the lips of the Apostle Paul. He repeats it over and over again in his letters. Why did the early church continue repeating the good news? Why is the gospel so glorious to the Christian that it dominates their existence? In this Christmas message, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones looks at the result of the gospel. Seeing what the gospel brings causes better understanding of why the good news is wonderful. Moreover, as taught by Dr. Lloyd-Jones in this sermon, a Christian properly responds to the gospel by receiving it gladly, yielding to its teaching, and being gripped by its message. It is clear, he says, that anyone who has found the gospel “worthy of all acceptance” will live a life of faithfulness to the Christ who came into this world to save people from their sin. Listen to Dr. Lloyd-Jones’s message on 1 Timothy 1:15 and hear why the gospel ends in a person being entirely changed.
In this sermon on 2 Timothy 1:12 titled “Alive to the Soul,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones draws encouragement from Paul’s life and resilience in the midst of difficult circumstances and takes the listener through how he or she can be at rest in the midst of difficult times. Paul underwent countless sufferings, and yet he was content and at rest in God. What accounts for Paul’s attitude? First, he had recognized the supreme value of the soul. It is a recognition that the soul will last forever and that there is an eternal reality. Second, he lived his life in view of what he called “that day,” the coming day of judgment. Third, above all, Paul had a personal knowledge of Christ and the love of God. He knew that God loved him and would keep His promises to grow Paul in his Christ-likeness, even if that meant difficult circumstances on earth. Yet Paul was at peace with that because he knew it was for his ultimate good. Christians have this same confidence — they have nothing to fear, not even death.
The Gospel is what enables living well in the midst of difficulty. In this sermon on 2 Timothy 1:12, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones poses these questions: what is the Gospel, and how does it impact the Christian? Paul’s main principle in this passage is that everything must be examined, including our lives, in the context of the whole collection of Scripture. Just as a doctor would want to address the root cause of an issue instead of merely trying to fix the symptom, so too, the Christian must look to Scripture and see the roots of the sin and seek to weed it out instead of attempting to merely fix the outward manifestations of the issue. Our framework for understanding this depends on our view of life. Dr. Lloyd-Jones contrasts the biblical view with the unbiblical, which is based on the principle that everything is constantly in flux and that life is a random accident. In contrast, God’s plan has a purpose and is not based on blind chance — it provides hope and rest, and best accounts for the condition of the world today. For Christians, this provides the hope and foundation needed to face difficult times.
What is the real cause of all failure and unhappiness in life? How can a person live in this world when the world, the flesh, and the devil are against them? Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones answers clearly: “when one is defeated in life, it is always ultimately due from the fact that he has the spirit of fear.” In this sermon on fear, Dr. Lloyd-Jones explores what the causes, consequences, and cure of this fear are? Is it actually possible to walk without fear, confident that all is truly well with one’s soul? Dr. Lloyd-Jones boldly answers, “Yes!” In this faith-building sermon from 2 Timothy 1, he explains that it is the gift of the Holy Spirit – what He does to the Christian, in the Christian, and what He enables the Christian to do---that makes it possible. God has given to every Christian the Spirit of power, of love, and of a sound mind, empowering them to no longer fear. God’s children can walk confidently, knowing whom they have believed until that final day. The one who is not afraid of the final day never needs to be afraid of the things that can happen in this world.
What is the focus of Christianity? Some say that Christianity is about simply being a good moral person, while others say that it is about religious experiences. In this sermon from 2 Timothy 1:12 titled “His Forever,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says that Christianity from start to finish is concerned with the person and work of Jesus Christ. This Jesus was delivered up for humanity’s sins, rose from the dead in victory, and now reigns in heaven. Christians must not be distracted by anything other than Christ, for when Christianity is no longer about Christ, it seeks to be true religion. They must not trust in themselves, but rest wholly in Christ. Christians must understand that their relationship with God is not about their works, but about Jesus Christ’s unchanging love for them. This puts the emphasis away from good works (which are important) and points towards the works of Christ. The Christian ought to live a life of good works not because they are seeking to justify themselves, but because they have already been justified in Christ and are secure because He loves them.
In this sermon on 2 Timothy 1:12 titled “The Meaning of the Gospel,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains that many people think they can construct a worldview built from Christianity along with other religions or ways of thought and still experience the same hope as a follower of Christ. But as Dr. Lloyd-Jones illustrates from this Scripture, no one can have the benefits of Christianity without believing and following Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains the gospel and its importance for everyone. Jesus, the God-man, entered into time and became God in the flesh. In His living, He showed how one is to live. In His sacrificial death and resurrection, He made a way for people to be made right with God and to have their sins forgiven. All that He claimed to be while alive was proven by His resurrection, showing that He is God and the Lord over all, even death. He established that death is not the end — He has conquered it. One cannot have this hope and confidence unless they trust in Jesus solely as their Savior from sin and following Him as master. He alone can save and give hope.
What is humankind’s greatest need? Many modern thinkers say it is for people to be emotionally well. Others think that it is world peace. But what does the Bible say is humankind’s greatest need? In this sermon on 2 Timothy 1:12 titled “Abundant Life,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones shows how the letter points out that the abundant life is not about material things nor emotional needs, but it is about being right with God. Humankind’s greatest need is to be made pure and free from sin in order that they might be reconciled to God almighty. For all are born slaves to sin and inheritors of unrighteousness. It is only in the gospel of Jesus Christ that any can be set free from sin and live according to God’s ways. Freedom is found in being made right with God through Jesus Christ. Those who believe in Jesus are now able to live a life of righteousness and holiness. Listen closely as Dr. Lloyd-Jones offers these vital questions: “Where is your hope? Are you like this passing world, hoping in the temporal and transient? Or do you trust in Jesus who has died for sinners?” This sermon concerns the most important truths anyone can ever know.
Who has the answers, God or humanity? In this sermon on 1 Timothy 1:1, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones shows the error of putting human thinking above the wisdom of God. He shows that all sin stems from Adam and Eve putting their reason above God when they ate of the forbidden fruit. Modern humanity is no different; they look to themselves to solve the problems of the world. This is hopeless because salvation comes not through humanity’s own deeds, but it is a free gift from God. This is how God has shown the wisdom of the world to be utter foolishness. He sent His only Son to die upon a cross in the place of the very people who murdered Him. Dr. Lloyd-Jones proclaims that it is Jesus who came to die and rise from the grave in order to break the bonds of sin, and to free all from sin’s dominion and condemnation. This sermon will encourage all who are trusting in their own wisdom to turn to Jesus as the only true source of happiness, peace, and true communion with God. The message of the glorious gospel is one that commands people to turn away from themselves and look to Christ as the only Savior sent from God.
In this sermon on 2 Timothy 1:12 titled “Who Is Man?” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones tackles deep questions about life from a Scriptural perspective. He shares the good news that one’s existence is not a result of random chance. It has a purpose, and God is in charge. God’s revelation in the Bible shows that humanity is different from animals because they were created with a soul. Dr. Lloyd-Jones presents some common views of humanity today, reminding that people were created to do far more than eat, drink, and fulfill their lusts. Many today chase these activities in hopes that they can be made happy. Yet Dr. Lloyd-Jones teaches that happiness was never designed to be tied to circumstances — one can find temporary pleasure, but they cannot find lasting happiness. Happiness is dependent upon a relationship with God. Yet, sin separates people from Him. No one can do anything of their own accord — the Bible tells that no one can earn their way to God. Yet, He sent His sinless Son Jesus Christ to die for sins and rise from the dead so that all who put their faith in His sacrifice can be saved.
In this sermon on 1 Timothy 1:13 titled “Mercy: Immense and Free,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones focuses on Paul reminding Timothy of the mercy Christ showed him, even while Paul was persecuting the early church. Dr. Lloyd-Jones points to what Paul says earlier in the passage: people will try to distort the gospel. Dr. Lloyd-Jones reminds Christians to be weary of false teachers who often attempt to add to what Christ has already done. Christ’s death is enough for the payment of sin. No additional laws, rituals, or beliefs are necessary. This is the gospel: that Jesus Christ came to save sinners. But what of the law? Dr. Lloyd-Jones answers as Paul answered: the law could never save anyone. The law only reveals the sin in a person’s life and shows that he or she is in need of a savior. Paul also gives three facts about God’s salvation that tells about Him: that God is merciful, full of grace, and abundant in long-suffering. Dr. Lloyd-Jones says that God’s grace and mercy is available to everyone. God sees no difference among sinners. He is patient, withholding His judgment, allowing time for people to come to Him and accept His loving and free salvation.
Why do some people reject Christ? The truth of the gospel seems so sure, and yet many still turn from it. Why? In this sermon on 1 Timothy 1:12–13 titled “Ignorance: Prejudice and Fog in the Mind,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones takes to Scripture to explain why people reject the gospel. One of the greatest missionaries of all time was the apostle Paul. Yet in 1 Timothy 1:12–13, he makes a startling admission—he had at one point been a great blasphemer of God and persecutor of Christians. And yet, God eventually saved him. People today say that they are not Christians because of their high intellect— they say that Christianity is for the weak-minded, and that they do not need it since they have a high intellectual understanding. Yet, many great Christians throughout history have shown this to be false simply because they were of towering intellect themselves. Augustine and Paul himself are just two out of a vast number of those who were brilliant and yet followed Jesus. Paul writes that the real reason for rejection is unbelief and ignorance that bring prejudice against the gospel and blind people to its truths. What exactly is this unbelief and ignorance about? Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains the real reason for unbelief and how Christians can effectively engage it today.
In this sermon on 2 Timothy 1:12 titled “God’s Unchanging Purpose, “ Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones reminds the listener that Paul was on the cusp of being executed when he wrote this letter. Yet, as Dr, Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches, Paul wrote confidently because he believed the gospel he had written about. Many today try to extract the blessings of Christianity without committing fully to its doctrine, but Dr. Lloyd-Jones says that in order to know the blessings of the gospel, one must believe its truth. The gospel starts with God and His process of redemption established before the world began. Dr. Lloyd-Jones instructs that the foundational truth, and what has been called the “watershed moment” of Christianity, is rooted in history — the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. By rising again, He fulfilled His promise to His disciples that He would live again, and by sending His Holy Spirit after His ascension, He again kept His promise that they would not be without a helper. This is important because it shows God’s purpose. Dr. Lloyd-Jones asks again, “Is your life controlled by the fact that you believe in the purpose of God? Does the gospel mean anything to you?” Those who don’t are living apart from its promises and on track to die without its hope.
As time has progressed and the world has become more secular, many charge that the gospel is useless, outdated, and has failed despite being given several centuries to flourish and establish itself. In this sermon on 2 Timothy 1:12 titled “The Age of Reason,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones answers some of the criticisms of the gospel and helps the listener understand how they can formulate a biblical answer that is intellectually and spiritually satisfying. The first difficulty is the definition of the gospel. While many different people will offer to have their own “version” of the gospel, Dr. Lloyd-Jones points to Scripture and reminds that Paul defined the gospel therein. Second, many feel that the gospel has failed. Yet Dr. Lloyd-Jones reminds that it has accomplished exactly what it was established to do: to reconcile people to God through faith in Jesus’s atoning sacrifice for their sins. Third, some object that the gospel is of no value because progress has left it far behind. Yet the struggles of people today are no different than they were in the first century — Scripture is still incredibly relevant. So what is the gospel? What is human authority? Does reason have limits? Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones answers these questions and points to why humans need divine revelation and why Scripture is the best answer to problems today.
In his sermon on 2 Timothy 1:12, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones shows that the gospel will benefit anyone who believes in Jesus Christ— it is good news for all people. Dr. Lloyd-Jones reminds the listener that the Apostle Paul was a natural pessimist, and yet, he found hope through the gospel. He boldly proclaimed “I am not ashamed.” Scripture’s promises are not dependent upon a person’s temperament or tendencies; it has power for all. Many today hold to a stoic view of life and believe that all are born to die, but this view provides no hope for people. Dr. Lloyd-Jones contrasts this with the Christian view, using the real-life example of songwriter Horatio Spafford who penned the well-known hymn, “It is Well with My Soul.” Spafford wrote this hymn soon after the tragic drowning of his children and losing most of his wealth. Though all here on earth could be going horribly wrong, and though evil and its results seem to prevail, followers of Jesus have hope. Dr. Lloyd-Jones reminds the listener that this is not automatic — though salvation is received through faith alone, the Christian journey is one in which its followers must play an active part in living out the gospel. He closes by stating that Christianity has no comfort or consolation if one does not believe its truth. Paul’s comfort was deduced from his faith — repent from sins and believe the gospel today in faith.
It is possible to be so gripped by fears of the future that the Christian becomes ineffective in the present. In this sermon on 2 Timothy 1:7, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones addresses fear of the future as a contributor to depression. Satan’s primary goal is to discredit Christ, and therefore, he attacks Christians. To do so, he tempts us to dwell on the future and then fear of the unknown becomes paralyzing and the result is depression in the present time. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that one’s natural temperament, characteristics, and make up can contribute to depression as inclinations do not disappear once a person becomes a Christian. Therefore, the Christian must recognize personal fears and tendencies, and strive to deal with them. For all who are gripped by this fear of the future, they must fight as a new creature, filled with new life. God has not given a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. The future may indeed be filled with sorrow, challenges, and suffering, yet the Christian should trust the Lord and boldly step into the unknown with confidence placed in Christ.
To use this feature, register a free account.
If you already have an account you can login instead.
