David Martyn Lloyd-Jones (20 December 1899-1 March 1981) stands as one of the most influential figures in 20th-century Reformed evangelicalism. A Welsh Protestant minister, preacher, and medical doctor, he served as minister of Westminster Chapel in London for nearly three decades.
Early Life and Ministry
Born in Cardiff and raised in Llangeitho, Ceredigion, Lloyd-Jones grew up in a region steeped in Welsh Methodist revival history, notably as the site of Daniel Rowland's ministry. His father worked as a grocer, and of his two brothers, Harold tragically died in the 1918 flu pandemic, while Vincent later became a High Court judge.
His early career path led him through London grammar school (1914-1917) to St Bartholomew's Hospital, where he trained in medicine. By 1921, he had secured a prestigious position as assistant to the Royal Physician, Sir Thomas Horder. After obtaining his MD from London University and membership in the Royal College of Physicians, Lloyd-Jones experienced a profound calling to preach. This spiritual conviction led him, in 1927, to return to Wales with his new wife, Bethan Phillips. Together with Bethan, who would later bear their two daughters Elizabeth and Ann, he accepted a ministerial position at a church in Aberavon (Port Talbot).
Westminster Chapel
In 1939, Lloyd-Jones returned to London as associate pastor of Westminster Chapel, serving alongside G. Campbell Morgan. His appointment coincided with the outbreak of World War II, during which he relocated his family to Haslemere, Surrey. That same year, he assumed the presidency of the Inter-Varsity Fellowship of Students (now the Universities and Colleges Christian Fellowship UK). Following Morgan's retirement in 1943, Lloyd-Jones became the sole Pastor of Westminster Chapel.
His ministry was distinguished by masterful expository preaching that drew thousands to Sunday services and Friday evening Bible studies. His methodical approach to Scripture saw him devoting months, sometimes years, to verse-by-verse exposition of biblical chapters. These hour-long sermons particularly attracted university students from across London. The Westminster Record preserved these messages in print, providing wider access to his teaching.
Later Life and Legacy
Following a major operation, Lloyd-Jones retired from Westminster Chapel in 1968. He dedicated his remaining years to publishing his sermons, counseling ministers, correspondence, and conference speaking. His magnum opus emerged as a 14-volume commentary on Romans, with the first volume appearing in 1970.
Though long resident in England, Lloyd-Jones maintained strong ties to his Welsh heritage, regularly addressing the Evangelical Movement of Wales in both English and Welsh. His final sermon was delivered at Barcombe Baptist Chapel on 8 June 1980. On St David's Day, 1 March 1981, he passed away peacefully at his Ealing home. His burial took place in Newcastle Emlyn, near Cardigan, followed by a memorial service at Westminster Chapel on 6 April.
Lloyd-Jones's influence continues through numerous publications about his life and work, most notably Iain Murray's comprehensive two-volume biography.
Additional Video
Dr. Lloyd-Jones’ documentary on the life and times of the 18th century preacher George Whitefield.