Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones on 2 Timothy 1:12 - Questions and Answers

What is the key verse Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones focuses on in this sermon?

Dr. Lloyd-Jones focuses on 2 Timothy 1:12: "For the which cause I also suffer these things, nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day." This verse serves as an introduction to the grand themes the apostle Paul develops throughout the chapter.

How does Dr. Lloyd-Jones define the main problem addressed in the sermon?

The main problem addressed is "how to live, how to live in a victorious manner... how to face life with all its uncertainties and attendant problems, and yet to triumph and to prevail." Lloyd-Jones emphasizes that this is the great quest of humanity - how to master life instead of being mastered by it, and how to face life's difficulties while maintaining triumph.

What does Dr. Lloyd-Jones say is different between stoicism and Christianity?

Lloyd-Jones explains that stoicism is a philosophy of resignation and "putting up with it" - it's negative, teaching people to maintain balance by not being too happy or too sad. The stoic refuses to give in but never truly rejoices. Christianity, in contrast, is positive and triumphant. It doesn't just help people endure difficulties; it enables them to rejoice in the midst of tribulations. The Christian can sing praises at midnight in prison, like Paul and Silas did, while the stoic can merely "stick it" without falling.

What example does Dr. Lloyd-Jones use to illustrate true Christian response to tragedy?

He shares the story of H.G. Spafford, who lost his four daughters in a shipwreck and his wealth in a bank crash. Rather than merely enduring these tragedies with stoic resignation, Spafford wrote the hymn "When Peace Like a River" with the powerful line "Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say: It is well, it is well with my soul." This demonstrates the positive, triumphant Christian response to tragedy, not merely bearing it but finding genuine joy and peace despite it.

Why does Dr. Lloyd-Jones say we can't explain Paul's attitude as simply being due to his temperament?

Lloyd-Jones argues that Paul was not naturally optimistic but was actually "a natural pessimist" and "a very sensitive man" who could be "easily discouraged." He cites examples where Paul admitted to having "fears within" and coming to Corinth "in weakness, fear, and much trembling." This proves that Paul's triumphant attitude came not from his natural temperament but from the transforming power of the gospel, which can work in people of any temperament.

What fundamental error does Dr. Lloyd-Jones identify in how people seek comfort from Christianity?

He identifies the error of trying to get Christian comfort without becoming a Christian. He states emphatically: "Christianity never gives direct comfort. You'll never know the comfort and the consolation of the scriptures and of the gospel until you believe the gospel." Lloyd-Jones explains that the blessings of Christianity are byproducts of faith, not something that can be obtained directly or apart from embracing the truth of the gospel first.

What does Dr. Lloyd-Jones say about the modern confusion regarding the definition of Christianity?

Lloyd-Jones criticizes the modern notion that Christianity is "something vague and nebulous" or "just some vague spirit" that "cannot be defined." He refutes the idea that "Christianity is caught, not taught" or that it's "nothing but love and goodness." Instead, he insists that Christianity is something specific that "can be stated in propositions" - it has definite content, "a body of doctrine" that can be taught, contrasted with error, and must be guarded.

What does Dr. Lloyd-Jones say Christianity is based upon?

He explains that Christianity is based on: 1) The authority of the apostles ("that good thing which you have heard of me"); 2) Historical events and facts ("now made manifest by the appearing"); and 3) A specific body of doctrine that can be defined, defended, and passed on. He emphasizes that Christianity is not merely a philosophy but is grounded in historical realities and apostolic teaching.

How does Dr. Lloyd-Jones describe the true test of any teaching or philosophy?

Lloyd-Jones states that "the test of any teaching or of any philosophy with respect to life, in the last analysis is this: Does it work? Does it help you? Does it rarely make a difference?" He further specifies that the real test is whether a teaching helps in "every conceivable eventuality" - including death, suffering, and loss. Christianity passes this test because it enables triumph in all circumstances.

What does Dr. Lloyd-Jones say about the uniqueness of the Christian gospel?

He asserts that the gospel "doesn't put itself into series with other teachings nor with other religions. It says it's absolutely unique." He quotes Peter's words that "there is none other name under Heaven given amongst men whereby we must be saved." Lloyd-Jones maintains that Christianity's claim to uniqueness isn't arrogance if it's true, and the evidence of its truth is its power to transform lives regardless of circumstances.