Psalms — Chapter 84

What is true religion? Many people say that true religion is whatever makes people feel good, or whatever makes them experience the sense of the divine. But in this sermon from Psalm 84:1–3 titled “The Living God,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones gives a very different answer. He says that according to God’s word, true religion is that which worships and believes the living God. The true God that has revealed Himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is beyond human comprehension; Christians can only speak of Him because He has revealed Himself in Scripture. God is holy. How then can sinners approach God? The answer is found in Jesus Christ and His death upon the cross. Jesus makes a way for sinners to be forgiven and come to God as children and heirs. Jesus is the new and better high priest that ever lives to intercede for His people as He rules from heaven. The mediation of Jesus Christ is the only way to approach God.

A false outworking of faith is the result of a faulty foundation. In this sermon on Psalm 84:1–12 titled “True Religion,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones continues a consideration of preliminary considerations of utmost importance as answered by the psalmist. First, through a brief discussion of what true religion is, and second through an evaluation of what the final authority of faith is. With faith, there must be a leaving and a taking up, a denial and a following. Today, some people want the benefits of religion, but in their own way. Find out the relationship between a faith that works and a faith that is built on truth. Are these two interchangeable? If one has a faith that works, does that determine its trueness? Dr. Lloyd-Jones directly addresses this issue and reminds his listeners that religion should most certainly be practical. False peace will let one down when they need it most, but the truth and promises of God are certain because of the character of God that they derive from. If one wants the blessings, they must accept the truths. To get God’s peace, they must take His wrath against sin and come to the altar in Christ.

What is most supreme in life? Can the Christian say with the psalmist that communion with God is supreme in the whole of life and existence? In this sermon on Psalm 84:3 titled “The Sparrow,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones walks through three certain things that are absolute essentials if one is to enjoy life like this. First, in reviewing his first two primary considerations, religion is not simply a matter of living, or of doing good, but rather one of knowing God: “The only thing that brings us into the presence of God is the blood of Jesus.” Additionally, the Christian learns that it is the truth of Christianity that is most essential, while the effectiveness of such a religion is merely an effect of its foundation of truth. Finally, Dr. Lloyd-Jones bring a new consideration, one that declares the Christian ought not only know the truth about God, but that they must realize the truth about themselves. They need a place of rest. No one has ever become a true Christian without feeling restless and homeless. To enjoy the blessings the psalmist expresses in Psalm 84:3 is to be aware of one’s helplessness and defenselessness.

Repentance prepares the highway for people to come into the presence of the Lord. They need substance and direction for life; not only repentance, but regeneration. From where does such a thing come? In this sermon on Psalm 84:5–7 titled “The Valley of Bacca,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones looks at Christ as the source of encouragement for the believer, despite the circumstances he or she might find themselves in. The result of such a faith is a clear view of life as a whole, and of self in relation to God. Are the pains of life the result of others’ faults or one’s own sin? Find purpose and direction for life, rather than living in a state of selfish chaos. God withholds nothing good from those who walk uprightly. Does one have a road to follow when calamity and trials come? It is in this valley of Bacca, one of tears and sorrow, that this psalmist’s joy springs to life. Learn to rejoice, even in the valley of Bacca. Let troubles make the Christian consider the goodness of God and cause rejoicing; praise Him, He has overcome the world!