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Righteousness; Temperance; Judgement

Acts 24:24-27

The gospel makes fallen sinners uneasy because it condemns all sin and unrighteousness that defiles God’s law. In this sermon on Acts 24:24–27 titled “Righteousness, Temperance, Judgement,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones shares that the message is not one of comfort but one that rightly condemns all who will not repent and believe in it. This is the case of Felix and Drusilla when the apostle Paul preaches the gospel to them. They are living in an adulterous relationship and unjustly holding Paul in prison. Paul does not try to convince them of the reasonability of Christianity and its claims, but tells them the need for righteousness and the great wrath when all will be judged for the deeds done in the flesh. This is why the gospel is such an urgent message, for all are appointed to die and suffer judgement. It is only by believing in the gospel of Jesus Christ that any can escape the righteous wrath of God. However, as Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains, often times the church is more concerned with politics and moralism than they are with the preaching of the only true hope for humankind. This is the great message that God has entrusted to the church. It is the truth that Jesus Christ died for sinners so that all who believe will be saved.

The Meaning of the Resurrection

1 Corinthians 15:17

Why does the resurrection matter? Christians can be confused about how significant the bodily resurrection of Christ is for their lives. In this sermon on 1 Corinthians 5:17 titled “The Meaning of the Resurrection,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches on the resurrection and how it is at the heart of the Christian faith. Because Christ rose from the dead, all who believe can be assured that they too will rise from the grave. Jesus Christ is the first of the new creation who rose from the dead as the final and ultimate proof that He has overcome death, sin, and Satan. The resurrection matters because it is the hope of every believer. This resurrection is not a spiritual resurrection or a figurative resurrection, but every believer will rise from the dead with their own body just as Jesus Christ did. Just as Jesus’s body after the resurrection was a better body, so also believers will be given a new body by God. This is because the new creation is not only a restoration of what sin has corrupted, but it is also a perfection of the original creation. For in Jesus Christ, God has overcome all sin and evil for those that trust in Jesus and what He has done.

Salvation Impossible to Man

2 Corinthians 5:21

What is salvation? Many see salvation as nothing more than doing good works; others think salvation is merely about being a part of a church. But in this sermon on 2 Corinthians 5:21, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches on the true nature of salvation as found in Scripture. He says that salvation is not about works or anything one does, but it is a matter wholly of God’s grace. People cannot do anything to save themselves apart from God’s grace in Jesus Christ. Humanity’s sin is the ultimate problem in life and is the source of all evil and suffering in this world. This great evil cannot be overcome by social change or good works, but it can only be overcome by the power of God in the gospel. There is no hope apart from the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. While salvation may be impossible for humans, nothing is impossible with God.

The Promises of God

2 Peter 1:4

All of Scripture is about the promises of God. What does this mean? In this sermon on 2 Peter 1:4 titled “The Promises of God,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches on the great truth of God’s promises given to His people. It is these divine promises from Genesis to Revelation wherein God tells that He will grant peace and blessings. How does God give Christians all these things? The answer is in the person of Christ Jesus. It is Jesus that gives all peace and happiness because it is He who saves from all sin. Sadly, many have mistaken the law of God for the promise itself, for the law looks forward to Jesus, but it is not the promise. The law brings condemnation on all because they are sinners. Jesus, however, delivers His people from sin and fulfills the entire law for them. The only question to ask is, “do you hope in the promise of God, namely Jesus Christ?” Those who die apart from Christ will never know the peace of God. There is no more pressing matter than belief in the great Savior, Jesus Christ.

Father; Glorify Your Name

John 12:23

There are many who want to observe Jesus, but few who will believe in Him. In this sermon on John 12:23 titled “Father, Glorify Your Name,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains the difference and shows how the glory of salvation is revealed in the cross of Jesus Christ. The Greeks, just like so many today, only approached Jesus in wanting to observe Him. They came with wrong motives and wrong reasons, and like contemporary culture, but they do not desire to understand His teaching or follow His example. Like a curious child, they look upon His death with inquisitive eyes and investigative hearts. But Jesus can only be known, loved, and experienced by direct interaction with His death. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that at the heart of Christianity is the sacrifice of Christ in the sinner’s place. The central mission, purpose, and message of Jesus is found in His dying since there is no hope of salvation unless the seed falls into the ground and the Son of Man is lifted up before all. It is His death on the cross that demonstrates the glory of salvation. One must see the absolute necessity of the cross and His death. Dr. Lloyd-Jones reveals that the death of Christ on the cross reveals the glory of the Father and is the basis for Jesus’s prayer: “Father, glorify your name.”

Giving Thanks Always Unto God

Ephesians 5:20

According to Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, one of the most important parts of prayer is thanksgiving. In this sermon on Ephesians 5:20 titled “Giving Thanks Always Unto God,” he says that one of the clearest gauges of spiritual maturity is how much of prayer is spent in thanksgiving. All who know God as Lord and Savior should live lives marked by continual Spirit-filled praise for all that God has done in and through Jesus Christ. It is by God’s loving grace that His people know Him and are partakers of all the blessings of Christ Jesus the Savior. Christians have new life and hope only in Jesus, and only come to know Christ through the grace of God in sending His Holy Spirit. As Dr. Lloyd-Jones elaborates, Christians can give thanks even for the hardships in life. This can be seen in Acts when Paul and Silas are beaten and thrown in prison but continue to sing praises to God. This is because it is God who sovereignly works in and through all things to bring about His purposes for His people. No matter what trials and tribulations Christians are experiencing, and no matter how bad the circumstances are, they can always give thanks to the God who has delivered them from sin, who loves them, and guards them through all of life.

He that Believeth Not

John 3:18

What is the great need of humanity? It is nothing less than salvation from sin. In this sermon on John 3:18 titled “He That Believeth Not,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains that the only hope is proclaimed by the accomplished work of Jesus Christ who came into this world by being born under the law in the likeness of sinful flesh in order to redeem those who were slaves of sin. Jesus is God’s appointed means of salvation for all who believe. God did not send Jesus into the world to condemn the world, but in order that sinners would be saved and brought to a knowledge of the truth. Many people misunderstand this, supposing that God is only a cruel judge who takes delight in destroying the wicked for their sins. Others make the opposite mistake and think He is so loving that He will not require any recompense for evil deeds. So, they suppose that there is no need to be saved and no need for a Savior. These are both terrible misunderstandings of the gospel that is given in Holy Scripture. In Scripture is found God who sent His Son to die in the place of sinners so that all who believe would be inheritors of eternal life and all blessings in Christ.

The Fear of Death

Luke 12:4-5

In his sermon on Luke 12:4–5 titled “The Fear of Death,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones orients his message around an essential and crucial topic: how the Christian is supposed to live in the world. He focuses on this Scripture where Christ warns His disciples to not fear death, but to fear He who can punish the soul. This fear of death, Dr. Lloyd-Jones says, is how most of the world chooses to live. It is this fear that causes people to tremble at war, weather, and decline. For the Christian, this fear might tempt a person to deny Christ as Peter did. However, Dr. Lloyd-Jones says that this fear has no grounds. The evil of people can only do so much to the body, but they cannot touch the soul. God is the only one with that power. Dr. Lloyd-Jones points out that Jesus also acknowledges the pain in the world and the fact that there will always be tribulation. But this pain has no real power because it can do nothing to change a person’s eternal standing with God. In closing, he reminds the listener of the liberating hope that is found within Jesus and how it is through Him that fear is replaced with security—the promise of eternity with God.

Separated Unto Holiness

Ezekiel 36:21-33

Do you know the truth about yourself and the truth about salvation? In this sermon on Ezekiel 36:21-33 titled “Separated unto holiness,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones answers these questions while examining God’s message to Israel when they were in times of trouble. The gospel is unchangeable and can never be altered; therefore, the Christian must know the general fundamentals of the gospel in order to have hope. Firstly, God tells us that we are hopeless because of our sin, and we have to realize that God punishes sin. The Israelites were in their situation because God was punishing them, and similarly the whole world is in trouble because God is punishing our sin. God has made a way for us to have hope however, by giving us eternal life. Secondly, Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains the three general facts in the gospel that we have to understand in order to receive salvation: Salvation is in spite of our sin, salvation is all of God, and the primary design of the gospel is to vindicate God’s character. Lastly, Dr. Lloyd-Jones concludes by saying, “If you truly acknowledge your sins and realize that Christ is the only Savior then he will deliver you.”

A Hope for All

Acts 7:30

The world makes claims such as religion is only for the weak or that belief in God is irrational and sub-scientific. These claims and many more flow from modern science, philosophy, and even false theologies that repudiate the God of traditional Christianity and the Bible. In the words of the modern person: “God is dead.” Listen to the sermon “A Hope for All” as Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones uses Acts 7:30 to explain how this belief system is born out of sinful rebellion against God and his law. It is not a sign of an enlightened mind, but of a mind enslaved to sin and depravity. This slavery to sin accounts for the opposition to God and the rejection of His gospel. This is seen in how the world addresses evil and depravity. The world tries to solve its problems through legislation, education, and social programs, but these efforts can never solve the real issue of sin. God uses the law to expose sin, but it is His Son who gave his life for sins, so that the world could be redeemed. This is the power of the gospel. It is not social reform, but cosmic renewal in the power of his Son, Jesus Christ.

Who Is This God?

1 Peter 2:9

What is the greatest problem in the world? In this sermon on 1 Peter 2:9 titled “Who Is This God?” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches that it is not how to stop war, or end famine, but it is how a holy God can forgive sinners. This is the great enigma of human existence, for all are born in sin and in a fallen state wholly opposed to God and His righteous law. God must punish sin because he is holy and just. How can this be resolved? Dr. Lloyd-Jones brings forth the great hope because God sent his only Son, Jesus Christ, to die a sinner’s death so that the law might be fulfilled. Sinners can be saved because of what God has done in Christ Jesus by repenting of their sins and believing in Christ. All who believe are given a new nature that seeks God and desires holiness. Christ is the head of a new humanity that is being perfected and brought to completion as the Holy Spirit enlightens their minds and grants them eyes of faith to see God’s truth. This is the result of God pouring out His love and grace on undeserving sinners, making them new creatures in Christ Jesus.

The Inward Man

2 Corinthians 4:16

How do Christians live in an evil world that opposes God? This is not a new question for Christians, and Paul himself addresses the early church in 2 Corinthians 4:16. Christians must always seek to live according to the gospel and the mission of Christ. In the midst of an evil world, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones proclaims, Christians must share the gospel. Christians living in the world must seek to make Christ known in all that they do. And even as Christians are seeking to be a light to the world, the Bible says that believers are still wasting away, but the inward man is being renewed within. Jesus transforms all who believe in Him and makes them holy. In this sermon on 2 Corinthians 4:16, Dr. Lloyd-Jones preaches this great truth of the hope of transformation in Christ. This sermon is a call for all to flee sin and come to Jesus, for Jesus alone can transform sinful bodies of death by making all things new. Only Jesus can make whole again and give true and lasting peace with the light of the knowledge of the glory of God.

The Christian Gospel

1 Peter 1:10-12

What changes when someone is saved? Is Christianity just a political movement that lobbies for a better world, or imposes a strict code of conduct? In this sermon on 1 Peter 1:10–12 titled “The Christian Gospel,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones speaks about how there are many who may hold these views, but they are mistaken. Christianity is not about morality or politics, but it is about hope in Christ and salvation in the gospel found in God’s word. God has chosen to reveal Himself to sinful people through the prophets, apostles, and Scripture. The whole message of salvation is contained in this truth and given to God’s people so that they may proclaim it to the world. This gospel is the message that Jesus Christ is the only way to salvation, for He alone has died so that all would be saved. This gift of salvation is given through faith as a result of God’s grace. No one can ever work to obtain it. All are born blind in sin until the grace of God opens their eyes to see the glory of Jesus Christ.

The Kingdom that Cannot be Removed

Daniel 2:44 ; Luke 2:1

Why is the birth of Christ important? In this sermon on Daniel 2:44 titled “The Kingdom that Cannot be Removed,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains why the birth of a baby in the little town of Bethlehem changes the whole course of human history. While this may sound like a grand claim, it is no exaggeration. For the baby that was born to Mary was none other than the long-awaited Messiah that was to bring the kingdom of God. While people put their hope in what looks good, God is quite different. He sent His Son to be born in a lowly place. He was not born amongst kings and the powerful. It is this Jesus who has died not only to forgive sins, but also that He might inherit the whole earth and rule all the kingdoms of the world. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains how Jesus conquered through suffering on the cross. Only in Jesus is there salvation and true peace with God.

The Mystery of Godliness

Ephesians 6:18-20 ; 1 Timothy 3:14-16

What is the mystery of godliness? In this sermon on Ephesians 6:18–20 titled “The Mystery of the Person of Christ,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones proclaims that God was “manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached to the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up to glory.” Christianity is all about the person of Christ Himself. The essential question is this: “what do you think about Christ?” Until one is clear about this, they cannot be clear about anything else. It’s no surprise that this is the very point where the devil has focused his greatest attacks. It is absolutely vital to be clear about who He is, because in Him is the only hope for the world. The gospel is not about humanity trying to arrive at an understanding, but God miraculously intervening, supernaturally entering in to the problems of humanity and doing His work through the person of Christ. In John’s Gospel, he made it clear in the purpose statement who Jesus was: “that you may believe Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God.” The mystery of godliness is uniquely and marvelously this: that divinity and humanity is equally in one person who came to live and die to reconcile humanity to God.

Essential for Salvation

Romans 10:9-10

What are the essential truths that must be made known for a person to be saved? Many say that the Bible teaches that one must only believe on the name of Jesus Christ to be saved. Others preach that one must believe in the person of Mary or that they must have extraordinary knowledge in order to be saved. In this sermon on Romans 10:9–10 titled “Essential for Salvation,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones shows the fallacy of both extremes. One temptation is to take away essential doctrines of the gospel in order to make it less offensive and more inclusive. The other temptation is to add more to the gospel than what is necessary, making it impossible for anyone to come to God and creating a works-based salvation. Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows through Scripture that the gospel message must include an explanation of who Jesus is, why He is needed, and why He is sufficient. This sermon will remind the listener of the biblical truth that a true evangelistic message must include repentance towards God and faith in Jesus Christ. In light of the truths presented in this sermon, the listener will be challenged to analyze their own beliefs and practices to see if they line up with the message of the apostles. Listeners will be encouraged to be bold in the proclamation of the gospel because it is the only true hope for the world.

Mortification of Sin

John 1:12-13

“It is not so much what we are saved from, but what we are saved for.” With these words, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones exhorts the Christian to the mortification of sin and acknowledges that they are not under the dominion of the flesh. He goes on to describe how Christians who fight against their own flesh are no longer under its rule or reign, but rather united to Christ who has already died to sin and is alive in righteousness. In this sermon on John 1:12­–13, Dr. Lloyd-Jones unpacks the intricacies behind unity with Christ and how that unity is the freedom from sin. Moreover, Dr. Lloyd Jones gives hope for the Christian who question their salvation. Do wrongdoings haunt the conscience and encourage faithful acts? Does sin continually feel cheaper until righteousness is the only worthwhile endeavor? Is there an alienation from the former life of sin and a desire to be a citizen of a life that pursues righteousness? These things illustrate a heavenly citizenship and assurance of salvation. These very truths are essential to the joy-filled Christian life. Dr. Lloyd-Jones gives these proofs, along with several exhortations, to live in a manner worthy of the one and only God who calls His children into His own kingdom and glory.

Are You a Christian?

Luke 2:44

In this sermon on Luke 2:44 titled “Are You a Christian?” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones gives listeners a sober reminder. Just as Joseph and Mary supposed Jesus was in the crowd when He wasn't, many people assume they are Christians when they are not. Joseph and Mary went on their travels without examining whether or not they had Jesus by their side. This, Dr. Lloyd-Jones argues, is what people do when they convince themselves of their salvation without examining themselves. Christianity is not attaining a high ethical standard for living, but rather an inward transformation by the Holy Spirit upon receiving Jesus Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones asks, “What do you have when everything else is taken?” If one does not think of the Lord Jesus Christ, it is likely that they do not have new life in Him. In times of turbulence and war, the Christian can be assured that Christ will walk with them. To meet Jesus, Dr. Lloyd-Jones adds, is to be humbled by Him. Listen in as Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones encourages about the only true hope in the universe.

Return of Christ

Acts 3:19-21

When Christ healed the lame man, it was an example of the power God has over all of creation. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones offers this powerful sermon on Acts 3:19–21 titled “Return of Christ,” showing God's ability to completely make all things new. The message of Christianity is not that it is a reform movement to fix all things gone wrong now, but that all are headed toward a final event to reconstitute the whole universe. Modern humanity views this as “pie in the sky” and want something to correct the world now. Accordingly, a popular view has arisen that Christianity is just a view of life, a book of principles — if people are persuaded to practice them, everything will be better. But this is not what Jesus taught. He never claimed to come into the world to reform it for progressive improvement. In fact, he said the opposite. The social gospel is a complete denial of biblical teaching and the witness of history. The world is a place of disorder because it is cursed and partly governed by the devil. This explains the world: not a lack of education, but a lack of knowledge of God. The real message of Christianity is that there is only one hope: the return of Christ to reconstitute all things.

What is Man? Part 2

Psalms 8:3-4

Do Christians think? In this sermon on “What is Man?” from Psalms 8:3–4, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones asserts the wonder of creation and the fact that only the Christian can really perceive. Psalm 8:3-4 shows how the believer thinks differently from the unbeliever. The Christian mind is guided by the Bible, rather than by the media and news. The Christian should marvel and wonder at creation, not just live life from one news highlight to the next. Is Christianity really against the advance of science? Look at the persecution of Galileo and the Protestant Reformation that pushed science forward. There is a difference between accidental happening and intentional creation. Why are order and laws of creation in place? Learn the difference between a thinker and a superficial reactor. Dr. Lloyd-Jones addresses the problem, the contradiction, the uniqueness, and the tragedy of humanity. People are worshippers and the only hope for humanity and the world is that this is God’s world. God visited and redeemed this world. The listener will discover the series of “launchings” of the Son of God. There is great urgency to be encapsulated in Christ before one is launched into the presence of a Holy God.