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The Supernatural Realm

Acts 8:14-17

When a person rejects God, it is because they often reject anything that cannot be personally experienced. This is the materialism of the secular humanist that rules out all the supernatural realm and spiritual realities. This is the mindset of those who have no place for salvation, spirits, and ultimately, for God. In this sermon “The Supernatural Realm” on Acts:8­­–14, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones exposes the false belief system of those who rationalize their sin based on evolution and blind causation. They reject the superstitions of religion in favor of science and rationalism. But as Dr. Lloyd-Jones states, science and evolution offer no explanation for the deepest and most important questions in life. God’s Word says that the world does not know God and that it is blinded by sin. The so called “wisdom of the world” is foolishness when compared to the word of God. It is only in God’s word that one can see the truth about themselves and the world. It tells that all are fallen and sinful by nature, and wholly opposed to all the things of God. But most importantly, God tells of what He has done in His Son, Christ Jesus. Jesus died a sinner’s death so that all who believe in His name will be saved. This is the salvation of the world; not evolution, not science, and not humanism, but the Son of God who gave Himself for sinners.

A Root From Dry Ground

Galatians 4:4-6

When we think of Christmas, we usually tend to associate it with Scripture passages from the books of Luke or Matthew, but are there other passages in the Bible that shed more light on what happened that day when Jesus Christ became a man born in Bethlehem? Preached just a few days before Christmas, this sermon by Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones draws truths from Galatians 4:4-6 that are crucial to our understanding of the celebration of Christmas. First, all three members of the Trinity—God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit— are involved in our salvation. Second, the focal point of all of this is the coming of Jesus into the world, the reason behind the celebration of Christmas. Paul says that Jesus was “sent forth”— a phrase that has caused many questions throughout the centuries among New Testament scholars, but Dr. Lloyd-Jones provides answers to help us understand what this means. Third, what does Paul’s statement of “the fullness of time” mean? Is it in an evolutionary sense that the present is better than the past? No! Dr. Lloyd-Jones emphatically demonstrates that it means God is in control of time and that God has predetermined all of the major events having to do with our salvation. How does this apply to us as we think of Christ’s coming? Dr. Lloyd-Jones reminds us that ultimately, because of God’s sovereignty, our worst time is his best time, and we can rest in that.

Are There Few that Be Saved?

Luke 13:23-28

In this sermon on Luke 13:23–28 titled “Are There Few That Be Saved?” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones focuses on Christ answering a man’s question: “how many will be saved?” Instances like these, Dr. Lloyd-Jones says, allow the believer to see how Jesus walked and talked on Earth. These conversations are important because understanding how Christ acted clues Christians into how He has always been, since the beginning, and for eternity. Jesus answers, “Strive to enter through the narrow door.” Dr. Lloyd-Jones, however, wants to know why Christ answered so strangely. He didn’t quote a number or provide a list of names. Dr. Lloyd-Jones says Jesus didn’t answer because the question wasn’t important. It doesn’t matter how many people will be saved, but rather if the one asking will be saved. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that these types of questions reveal a person’s heart. The man asking Jesus wasn’t interested salvation. He wanted to approach Christ as an equal, to discuss matters of philosophy or theology. He concludes by saying that Jesus isn’t interested in discussion. His opinion is the only opinion that matters, and when it comes to salvation, Christ wants to see to a person’s soul, to show him or her His redemptive love.

It is God Who Acts

Exodus 3:3

Christians must be careful not to turn to God only when they are disturbed by an experience or to satisfy curiosity. This is what Moses did at the burning bush, but God arrested Moses’s cares and attention. In this sermon from Exodus 3:3 titled “It is God Who Acts,” Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones addresses this fatally casual approach to God. He states how often Christians address God out of exhaustion or need. He corrects this by saying that Christians must always begin with God as He is the root of all things. What a transformation would take place if Christians applied God to their experience rather than appealing their experiences to God. Indeed, Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows that the main business of Christianity is Christ’s death on the cross that brings His people face to face with God. God is so pure that He cannot look upon sin, but because of salvation the Christian can enter His presence. Not only this, but God’s plan for salvation is certain, as seen in this passage. He sees the Christian’s sorrows and acts as He did for the Israelites. Dr. Lloyd-Jones encourages turning to God in full attention as His purposes are good and He has cared for the greatest need so that His people might dwell in His presence rather than address Him only when they must.

A Vain and Empty Life

1 Peter 1:14

Why is Salvation necessary for the non-Christian man? What is the purpose of life for the non-Christian? In this Sermon on 1 Peter 1:4 titled “A Vain and Empty Life,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones answers these questions and addresses the fact that the non Christian life is hopeless, vain, and has no purpose until they are born again and delivered out of darkness. Dr. Lloyd-Jones firstly explains the origin of the non Christian life and says that these men and women simply do what they think needs to be done because of tradition; they are following what other people have done in the past. Although they might think that they are living their own life, they are getting their ideas from someone in the past or around them who has done the same. Secondly, he explains that the life without God is a life of lust always controlled by the passions and desires of the flesh and mind. Everything the non-Christian does in this life is controlled by their mind and flesh, including anger and ambition. Lastly Dr. Lloyd-Jones preaches that although the non Christian life seems attractive and wonderful at first, it is empty inside and there is no meaning to it. In the ungodly life, there is no hope and it is merely hopeless. He concludes by saying that salvation is necessary to deliver you from this empty life, and so that God can give you light, joy, and hope in this world. It is necessary for the Christian to realize that he is just a journeymen in this world and one day will be in glory with the Father.

Seek Honour from God

John 5:44

Salvation comes only through belief activated by seeking honor that comes from God. In this first sermon on John 5:44, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains that true saving belief is impossible when humankind seeks its own honor. Though they professed to know God, the Jews were far from Him because they sought their own honor from people. The honor of people is ultimately the seeking of the same supreme position Satan offered Eve in the garden. Now, in this second installment titled “Seek Honour From God,” Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that the belief that saves comes from seeking honor from God. The honor that comes from God is an honor that begins by giving Him the supreme position in the heart, mind, and life. This honor, in reality, is the essence of belief that humbles oneself to a lowly position and God to the supreme position. Possessing this saving belief means that one knows that God exists, accepts that God is holy, receives God’s word as the truth, and is convicted of his or her own sin and need for forgiveness. Belief that seeks honor from God includes these actions and leads one to accept their utter hopeless estate without Him as a desperate sinner before God. When belief is marked by these qualities, it leads one to God and to receive honor from Him. The listener is encouraged to consider this message from Dr. Lloyd-Jones and ensure that the honor sought is honor from Him, an honor that leads to salvation and His glory.

Outline of Romans

Romans 1:1

The strongest building is vulnerable by a weak foundation. How firm is the Christian’s foundation? As Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones proclaims in this sermon “Outline of Romans” on Romans 1:1, a life built on the word of God and growing in sound doctrine is spared from the storms and threats that devastates many lives. Since the Christian’s union is with Christ and their fellowship with the local church, they grow in righteousness as they learn from the entire counsel of God. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones overviews Paul’s letter to the church at Rome and explains the reason this letter is so important to the Christian life. In it is found certainty, security of salvation, and future glorification that awaits all who are declared righteous and saved by faith.

God's World

John 1:10-12

In this sermon on John 1:10–12, Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows the firm foundation that gives those who are saved total security, peace, and even joy in the worst of trouble. All are living in God’s world and under His sovereign control. The meaning behind events is hidden, but it is known and designed by the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows how God permits evil to exist in the world as a means of teaching, instructing, and showing the need for salvation. No matter how dire the circumstances, the providence of God is at work to care for His world and show compassion for His children. The plan of God to save sinners will not be undone.

An Overview of Romans 11:11-32

Romans 11:11-32

Paul has been teaching about the Jews and how as a nation they have blatantly rejected the gospel. In this portion of Romans, Paul is now stating what the real position of the Jews is and how that relates to the Gentiles. In this sermon on Romans 11:11–12 titled “Stumbling of the Jews,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains that the Jews stumbled so that the Gentiles could come to salvation. Not only was their stumbling permitted by God, he also inflicted them with blindness so that the Gentiles could have the opportunity to believe. This rejection of the Jews gave the blessings to the Gentiles. So have the Jews been cast away forever? Paul says that they have not. They have in turn seen the blessings of the gentiles and have been provoked to jealousy. This causes them to think twice and consider the gospel that the Lord has given.

Hope for the World

Ephesians 3:9-11

Is there hope for the world? Is there a purpose and plan for the Christian? In this sermon on Ephesians 3:9–11 titled “Hope for the World,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones addresses the question of hope amidst the seeming chaos and pointlessness of life on earth. The only hope is in the gospel of Jesus Christ. In the darkness of the world and in the minds of men and women, Christ is the light of the world. The world is God’s creation and He has had a plan and purpose for His creation since before the foundations of the earth were formed. This plan is revealed in God’s word, the Bible. The ultimate hope that is found in Christ does not, however, mean that the end of war, evil, and darkness will end in this age. The end of these things will come with the return of Christ. Rather, the Christian’s hope is the hope of salvation in Christ that points to the eternal home and reward, not a temporary peace in the circumstances of humanity.

The Gift of Grace

John 1:17

Does the Christian rejoice in God’s grace? Does what they learn about the Creator really fill them with joy? In this encouraging sermon titled “The Gift of Grace,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains the contrast between the law of God and the grace of God. The law of God is designed to condemn. It brings conviction, correction, and ultimately serves as judge. Grace is God giving what is not deserved. It is His grace that forgives, supports, restrains, protects, and preserves. At salvation, the law of God becomes the guide by which to glorify God. The listener is encouraged to discover the riches of His glorious kindness, which puts the law inside hearts and minds, enabling the Christian to live the holy life God intends for His people. Enter into the joy of grace, to experience it as His children were meant to.

Christianity or Religion?

John 4:28-39

In this sermon from John 4:28–30 titled “Christianity or Religion?”, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches on the centrality of a relationship to Christ and how it should change every part of one’s life. Christianity is not just another helpful life teaching that can be added to a daily routine, but it is the message of salvation from God. It is the truth that all who believe in Christ are made children of God and forgiven from all sins. This means that now they view all of this life and the future in light of this hope. It means that the Christian tests themselves to see if they are truly in Christ. The Bible is clear that there are many who say they believe but are self-deceived. This is why the Bible exhorts all Christians to test themselves to see whether they are in the faith. This vital message for all to hear and obey is that Jesus died and saved those that believe.

The Spirit in Christians

John 1:12-13

What is the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Christian? Many Christians do not have a very high view of the third person of the Trinity. In this sermon on John 1:12–13, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches on the role of the Holy Spirit in giving Christians assurance of their new life in Christ. It is the Holy Spirit that transforms the lifeless old man into a glorious new creation made for God. It is the Holy Spirit that opens believers’ eyes to see the truths of Scripture and its meaning for their lives. It is also the Holy Spirit that guides believers into the knowledge of the salvation of God. All Christians can and should have the knowledge that they are loved by God and called to be His children. This sermon tells the glorious truth that all who believe in Jesus can be saved and forgiven of all their sins, and they can know that they are forgiven by the working of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

Attacked By The Devil

John 1:12-13

What can give the Christian assurance that they are a child of God? In this sermon from John 1:12–13, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones describes how knowledge of the devil and his attacks can give surety of salvation. The Christian is faced with deception, temptation, and accusation from the devil. These hardships point out the fact that the Christian is not conformed to this world or the prince of this world, the devil. Moreover, Dr. Lloyd-Jones points out that “the Christian is an inevitable rebuke to everybody else.” The world does not hate the “good” and moral person, but the world hates the good moral Christian. Dr. Lloyd-Jones elaborates on the particulars of living in the world as a Christian and how to understand the attacks of the devil as evidences of the identity of the Christian as a child of God rather than a child of the devil. This sermon challenges how the Christian fights for assurance and gives hope to the individual struggling with sin, temptation, and accusation.

Christ the Hope of Glory

John 1:10-12

Does the world care about Christ? It never will if the joy and peace of Christ isn’t seen and alive in the church today. This lack of obvious joy, claims Dr. Lloyd-Jones, flows from a failure to reflect on the gospel. Listen as this sermon on John 1:10–12 unfolds the three central components to the Christian faith: knowing, believing, and receiving. These truths illustrate that this is God’s world and that though there is darkness in the world, God sent His son to save His people from that darkness. When Jesus is received and the power of His sacrifice for sin is believed, salvation occurs. Any Christian lacking in joy will rekindle their passion by considering these things, and dwell on the fact they are completely forgiven in Christ. Feelings are dictated by thoughts and knowledge and, therefore, an accurate understanding and belief in these truths will lend oneself to experience and demonstrate great and genuine joy.

No Longer Strangers

Ephesians 2:19

In this sermon on Ephesians 2:19 titled “No Longer Strangers,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones addresses the reality that Christians are citizens of the kingdom of God and “no longer strangers.” Dr. Lloyd-Jones notes that the imagery used by Paul (“strangers” and “foreigners”) to describe the past tense for the Christian implies several things. Before salvation, they were around the people of God and may have even seemed to be a citizen of the kingdom, but in reality were not. Many, he concludes, are in the same predicament in the church. They are around the people of God but have no true understanding of the things of God. They may be able to have deep philosophical or theological conversations, but when true religious experience is discussed they feel awkward. Therefore, before one seeks to understand what it means to be a citizen, it is important to come to the understanding of one’s status as citizen or foreigner.

Adoption in Christ

Ephesians 1:5

Christians are adopted by God because He chose them. With careful attention to the details of Paul’s letters, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explores the purpose of salvation and the implications of being adopted into God’s family. To help grasp the significance of this doctrine, Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that the term “adoption” emphasizes the standing and rank of the chosen child. In this sermon on adoption from Ephesians 1:5, Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that regeneration addresses the Christian’s nature, whereas adoption is about the legal standing of the child. Adoption is the highest expression of God’s love towards His chosen people. It is the love of a Father for His child, the love of God for His creation. Children of God must live holy lives in keeping with their identity. The privileges of God’s household are found throughout Paul’s letters. Christians are His sons and daughters and, as the Scriptures say, heirs with Christ.

Trust in God and ...

Ephesians 6:10-13

In Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones’ sermon on Ephesians 6:10-13, he visits the topic of sanctification. Specifically, how our relationship is to God in our lifelong journey of sanctification. To begin, Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains how justification is unrelated to sanctification. We can do nothing to be justified. Our justification is completely up to God. However, in the case of sanctification, we have a job to do. It is our activity. Dr. Lloyd-Jones states that unlike justification, sanctification is a continual process in which we must realize our need for salvation, listen to God’s commandments, and follow them. The first process of realizing our need for salvation happens only once; however, we must strive for the rest of our lives to live faithfully, according to God’s commandments. But, how can we live such a life? Well, Dr. Lloyd-Jones provides key tips on how we can stay strong in obedience to God. He first states that to do so, we must practice it. Often, a Christian will be to intimidated to act on their faith and will simply back away from opportunities to obey God’s commandments, but the truth is that if we simply attempt to take action, God will grant us the strength to do it. Dr. Lloyd-Jones gives the example of Peter walking on water or Moses making water flow from a rock. Neither of these men had the power to do such things, but they took action regardless, and because they took action, God granted them the power to accomplish their tasks. As Christians in the process of sanctification, we cannot stand by and think that God will do everything for us. No, we must do things. God’s work on earth is done by works and enabled by the spirit. Dr. Lloyd-Jones states, “Use the means that are available, but put your confidence in God.” The great puritan leader, Oliver Cromwell, knew this when he told his men, “Trust in God and keep your [gun]powder dry.” Whenever doubt crowds our minds and threatens to quench the holy fire inside of us, we must go ahead with action, all the while remembering that we can do all things through Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones concludes his sermon saying, “Whatever we may be facing, we must remember that Christ is with us and that nothing can separate us from the love of God.”

Authentic Marks of God's Child

John 1:12-13

What is the most wonderful thing about salvation? In this sermon on John 1:12-13 titled “Authentic Marks of God’s Child,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones emphatically responds, “That we are the children of God!” Too often the focus is on the things that are avoided when the Christian is saved, whether it is avoiding God’s righteous judgment, or being saved from eternity in hell. While those things are true and weighty, Dr. Lloyd-Jones would have Christians remember what is gained: the right to become the children of God, and entrance into the kingdom of Heaven. There are several questions that, depending on the answers, prove that if one is indeed God’s child: “Am I concerned about the name of God?” “Do I grieve at sin and blasphemy?” “Do I enjoy creation in a way that reflects my understanding that the world is God’s?” “Do I look forward to Christ’s return?” Dr. Lloyd-Jones examines these questions and more with scrutiny and with the aid of the Scriptures.

Union with Christ

Romans 6:3

In this sermon on Romans 6:3 titled “Union with Christ,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones breaks down several thoughts or viewpoints concerning baptism, including the Catholic and Protestant views. In addition, he also discusses several views within each belief. In Romans 6:3, it almost seems like Paul is stating that baptism into Christ is baptism in His death. Dr. Lloyd-Jones warns that if one is stumbling over specifics in the varying viewpoints, they could potentially miss the glories that baptism represents. The most glorious aspect of baptism is that Christians are in Christ and He is in them. The saved were once in Adam and dead because of sin, but their union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection is shown through baptism. This means that the final salvation is guaranteed. Whatever viewpoint is held, the Christian must always acknowledge that they are literally united with Christ and baptism shows a united nature with Him.