Patient in Tribulation
A Sermon on Romans 12:12
Originally preached May 20, 1966
Scripture
12Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
Sermon Description
The Christian should ask themselves if they are “fervent in spirit” and learn to look at their total view of life in this world as Christian people. There is nothing so fatal for the Christian than to misunderstand his or her life in this present world. “The only way a Christian can rejoice is in the life of this hope [Christ].” How are they then to live in this present world? “We must never allow tribulation to do us any harm at all.” In this sermon on Romans 12:12 titled “Patient in Tribulation,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones asks, “Is your reaction one of grumbling or of patient endurance in the midst of tribulation?” The Christian ought to expect trouble to come their way. Nothing teaches the believer better than tribulations: weakness, pride, and selfishness is brought out in trials. Dr. Lloyd-Jones teaches that these trials yield the fruit of righteousness. Prayer results from tribulation and one ought to quickly seek this refuge. Christians are in the fight of faith; not against the things of this world, but against the spiritual matters. Do not continue in ignorance and self-confidence that pervades common humanity. Rejoice in knowing that truly nothing can separate the believer from the love of Christ, not even the hardest of trials or tribulation.
Sermon Breakdown
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The sermon examines Romans 12:12 - "Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer."
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The first point is "rejoicing in hope." This means having the right view of life in this world. Christians should not expect much from this world and should look forward to the world to come.
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The second point is "patient in tribulation." Christians should not be surprised by trials and tribulations. They should expect them. Trials teach us about ourselves, others, and strengthen our faith. They make us long for heaven.
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The third point is "continuing instant in prayer." This means constantly praying and staying in communication with God. Prayer gives us comfort, reminds us of God's presence and care, and provides us strength.
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In summary, as Christians we are strangers in this world. We will face trials and tribulations. But through prayer and keeping our eyes on the world to come, we can overcome.
Sermon Q&A
Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones on Patient Endurance in Tribulation
What does Dr. Lloyd-Jones mean by "tribulation" in Romans 12:12?
According to Dr. Lloyd-Jones, the word "tribulation" comes from a word that means something that puts pressure upon you, something that crushes. He explains: "A tribulum was used in crushing the corn in order to get flour. That's the word, and it's a very picturesque word. And that is the word that is translated as tribulation. It means that things are pressing heavily upon you almost to the extent of crushing you." Tribulations can come through circumstances beyond our control, through temptations, and through persecutions - things that try God's people and tend to crush our spirits.
Why does Dr. Lloyd-Jones say Christians shouldn't be surprised by tribulation?
Dr. Lloyd-Jones emphasizes that Christians shouldn't be surprised by tribulation because the Bible consistently teaches this is part of the Christian life. He quotes Jesus saying, "In the world, you shall have tribulation" (John 16:33) and cites 1 Peter 4:12: "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you as though some strange thing happened unto you." According to Lloyd-Jones, having a proper view of this world as "this present evil world" helps Christians properly anticipate trials rather than being shocked when they come. He criticizes those who teach a "romantic view" of salvation that suggests Christians won't face difficulties.
What does "patient in tribulation" actually mean according to the sermon?
Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that "patient" is actually too weak a translation - the original word carries the notion of endurance with a positive quality. Being "patient in tribulation" means:
- Not being surprised or shaken by tribulation
- Not giving way under tribulation
- Not grumbling or complaining when trials come
- Allowing tribulation to teach us valuable lessons about ourselves, others, and God
- Following in Christ's footsteps, who also endured suffering
- Recognizing tribulation as a privilege that connects us with saints and martyrs throughout history
He summarizes: "Be patient in tribulation and it'll do you the world of good. You'll even thank God for it."
How does Dr. Lloyd-Jones connect rejoicing in hope with being patient in tribulation?
Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows that these concepts are logically connected. He explains: "You see this is, of course, basic and fundamental, because if we don't understand that [rejoicing in hope], we cannot possibly understand or put into practice this second injunction... patient in tribulation." Only by having our eyes set on the future hope of glory can we properly endure present trials. He points out that Paul makes the same connection in Romans 5, where he writes about rejoicing in hope of the glory of God and then immediately speaks of glorying in tribulation. The proper view of this world as temporary and the hope of glory as permanent provides the foundation for patient endurance through trials.
What does "continuing instant in prayer" mean and how does it relate to tribulation?
"Continuing instant in prayer" means maintaining constant communion with God. Dr. Lloyd-Jones clarifies that this isn't: - A psychological treatment or positive thinking - A mechanical duty like counting beads - A mere list of requests to check off
Rather, it means: - Approaching the throne of grace - Having personal communion with God - Drawing nigh to God through conversation - Being reminded of His presence during trials - Receiving strength from Him
This connects to tribulation because prayer is "the only alternative to fainting" during trials. He quotes Jesus: "Men should always pray and not faint" (Luke 18:1). Prayer reminds us we're not alone in our tribulations, helps us feel God's protective care, and enables us to receive divine strength when we're weak and overwhelmed by trials.
The Book of Romans
Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones
Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1899-1981) was a Welsh evangelical minister who preached and taught in the Reformed tradition. His principal ministry was at Westminster Chapel, in central London, from 1939-1968, where he delivered multi-year expositions on books of the bible such as Romans, Ephesians and the Gospel of John. In addition to the MLJ Trust’s collection of 1,600 of these sermons in audio format, most of these great sermon series are available in book form (including a 14 volume collection of the Romans sermons), as are other series such as "Spiritual Depression", "Studies in the Sermon on the Mount" and "Great Biblical Doctrines". He is considered by many evangelical leaders today to be an authority on biblical truth and the sufficiency of Scripture.