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The Temple in the Soul

Ezekiel 36:33-35

In this sermon on Ezekiel 36:33–35 titled “The Temple in the Soul,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones proclaims that there is one God and one message of salvation that runs consistently throughout the entire Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, God is working to bring His plan of salvation to its fulfillment in Christ Jesus. The prophet Ezekiel looked forward to this fulfillment when God would rebuild what was lost in the fall. God does this through the gospel and forgiveness of sins. All were born in sin because of the fall and this fallen nature is wholly given over to sin and corruption. Humanity’s will, mind, and every action are tainted by sin. Relationships are twisted and marred by the effects of the sinful nature and disposition. Ignoring it doesn’t change the presence or reality of sin. The good news is that there is hope in Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones teaches that it is only in Christ that anyone can have true fellowship with God and neighbor. In the gospel people are made right with God and humanity by the blood of the only Son of God. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows the path out of the loneliness and confusion that engulfs humankind.

Son of God; Son of Man

Acts 4:12

All are in dire need of salvation because all are under the judgment of God. Because of the fall, all are born in sin and in guilt. They must get rid of their polluted nature and their guilt before a holy God. How can a sinful person be reconciled with God? In this sermon titled “Son of God, Son of Man,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones joyfully and powerfully states that the great truth of the gospel is the forgiveness of sins and a new nature in Christ. By the gospel, the whole world is made new but in their pride and arrogance, people reject the gospel and its God. They believe that they can make the world a better place by their own endeavors. They do not believe that they are fallen sinners in need of a savior and a new life. They reject the idea that only through Christ can anyone be saved. But the message of Christ and Christ alone is the means of salvation is the gospel. This is the message of salvation from Genesis to Revelation. It is the God-man who came to save His people and bring about the kingdom of 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.

The Fall

Suffering and pain surround humanity. In this sermon on the fall, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains what God’s word says about the fall and sin. Contrary to many erroneous contemporary views, sin and evil are not eternal principles, nor is sin simply the lack of good. Rather, sin and evil are the result of humanity’s willing rebellion against God. This rebellion brought sin into a perfect world. The Bible gives this story in the first chapters of Genesis in which the serpent deceived Adam and Eve and lured them into temptation. This is not simply a myth used to illustrate the human fall into sin, but it is God’s revelation of a true historical event. In their original state, people had no natural desire to sin, but sin entered from outside through the temptation of Satan. This fall did not change the essence of people, but it changed their relationship with God. Now that humanity has fallen and is estranged from the fellowship of God, all have lost their original righteousness, and their nature has been utterly corrupted. This is why humanity and the world are in such a dire need for the Savior, Jesus Christ.

Revival Sermon: The Holy Spirit in Revival

Genesis 26:17-18

What is a revival? In this sermon on the Holy Spirit in Revival from Genesis 26:17–18, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones answers that a revival is a work of the Holy Spirit wherein He moves amongst God’s people and unbelievers. The Holy Spirit is the one who works in God’s people to equip them and gift them for the work of spreading the gospel and building up the church. It is the Holy Spirit who gives the church apostles, preachers, and prophets. It is also the Holy Spirit who moves in the world to convict fallen sinners of their wicked ways and of their need of repentance. But one of the church’s greatest dangers is to quench the work of the Holy Spirit by denying His work. Dr. Lloyd-Jones argues that one of the biggest problems with the church today is false teaching about the nature of the Holy Spirit’s work and ministry amongst the people of God. If the church is to be faithful and equipped to serve God, Christians must return to a doctrine of the Holy Spirit that recognizes His working and power in the world. This sermon has a message for both believers and unbelievers in that it calls all to recognize the grace of God in giving His Spirit to the world.

Revival Sermon: Defective Orthodoxy

Genesis 26:17-18

Is revival possible without the teaching and preaching of doctrinal truths? Can there be a revival in the presence of defective orthodoxy? In this sermon on Genesis 26:17–18 titled “Revival Sermon: Defective Orthodoxy,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones denies any possibility of revival without the presence of right doctrine. Listen as he expounds upon the hindrances and obstacles of revival, the failure expected without respect of doctrines such as the Holy Spirit, justification by faith alone, regeneration, the church, and the sovereignty of God. “These doctrines are bare essentials, and without them I see that we have no right at all to pray for or expect the influence and the demonstration of the Holy Spirit of God.” Christians must remember that one can be orthodox but dead if they believe doctrine is an end to itself. Dr. Lloyd-Jones also points out the increase of entertainment, programs, and advertisements among the church that should not be there. He even addresses the overemphasis put on singing that is permeating many churches today. The church must also beware of being right in doctrine and orthodoxy, but wrong in the Spirit. Dr. Lloyd-Jones teaches here about the behaviors and actions that must be thrown out in order to avoid this.

Controlled by Unbelief

John 7:25-36

What is at the root of people’s unbelief regarding Christianity and the gospel of Jesus Christ? Is it a heart issue or is it something that is more intellectual? In this sermon on John 7:25–36 titled “Controlled by Unbelief,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches to understand what unbelief is and what is at the root of it. Not seeing Christ as Savior, Dr. Lloyd-Jones says, is not merely an indifferent opinion that someone can hold. A person’s eternal destination is hinging on how they answer this, and thus, it is of the utmost importance. Unbelief is the consequence of the fall in Genesis 3. Dr. Lloyd-Jones asks what the deep and radical nature of unbelief is and provides three helpful points to think through in consideration. First, it is deeper than merely intellect and reason— unbelief is an issue of the heart that is not fixed simply by changing someone’s mind alone. Second, it is deeper than superficial differences of opinion, and this is because of the importance and weight it bears. Third, unbelief leads to an appalling ignorance of God and that everyone, including the unsaved, will have to give an account and will be subject to God’s judgment for their sins. If one struggles with unbelief towards God, listen to this sermon and think carefully about their standing in relationship to God.

The Living Stone

1 Peter 2:4-6

What is the cause of all the suffering and evil seen in this world? In this sermon on 1 Peter 2:4–6 titled “The Living Stone,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones show how the sin and rebellion of humanity is to blame. This is seen in the first chapter of Genesis as well as the whole narrative of Scripture. God has sent Jesus Christ His Son to redeem fallen sinful people. He is the cornerstone and foundation of faith and ever lives to make intercession for His people. He did this by joining humanity and deity in the person of Jesus Christ, living a sinless life, dying a sinner’s death on the cross, and was resurrected to life. This is why He is the great High Priest who ever lives to make intercession for His people before the almighty Father in Heaven. Christ, as suffering servant and risen messianic king, stands at the center of the Christian faith, not anyone’s works or the deeds of the church. The rise of Christless-Christianity is a testament to the danger of separating the church from the founder and perfecter of the faith. The whole of Christianity is found in the completed work of Christ Jesus who, as the true and better Adam, has redeemed His people from all sin and made them children of God.

Abraham; Man of Faith

John 1:12-13; Hebrews 11:8-12

In this sermon from his series on John 1:12–13, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones discusses the richness of assurance of salvation. He highlights the beautiful truth that Christians are not only forgiven of sins when we come to believe in Christ, but they are also born again. They are born not of flesh, but of God and adopted in as His children. Dr. Lloyd-Jones also brings in the illustration of faith and assurance in the life and person of Abraham. He encourages us from Abraham’s example found in Genesis 15, Hebrews 11:8–12, and other Scripture references. The listener hears of Abraham’s deep faith in God, his faith in action, and God’s plan. Despite the fact that God’s promises to Abraham were not immediately fulfilled, and the way of fulfillment was unknown, Abraham still “went out not knowing where he was going” because he believed God and His promises. Dr. Lloyd-Jones urges the listener to consider their faith: do they believe God and His promises? Do they not only intellectually believe, but also live out faith in obedience? Do they live in the blessed joy of assurance?

Revival Sermon: Dead Orthodoxy

Genesis 26:17-18

The church has an important duty to fulfill before she can truly benefit the kingdom of God. She must deal with the hindrances that keep away the truths of the gospel. In this sermon on Genesis 26:17–18 titled “Revival Sermon: Dead Orthodoxy,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones presents these dangerous obstacles and asks the listener to consider the lack of balance within the church. It is necessary to consider dead orthodoxy along with defective orthodoxy. He is convinced that out of all dangers threatening revival, this is the greatest danger confronting the church and any individual with an evangelical outlook. In the midst of dead orthodoxy, people are driven to contentment and to practice religion merely for safety and security. Is the Christian just content because they have the right beliefs? Do they come to God’s house just to listen to a sermon? Dr. Lloyd-Jones references 1 Thessalonians 5:19 which tells the Christian not to quench the Holy Spirit. He explains the different ways one can avoid this: recognizing a fear of enthusiasm, confusion, false excitement, emotionalism, and pseudo-intellectualism. He clarifies the difference between emotionalism and emotion. Christians may be so afraid of the false that they quench the true emotion: “We’ve forgotten how to weep my friends,” with joy and with sadness.

The Origin of Evil

Ephesians 6:10-13

The presence of evil in the world is undeniable. While many philosophies and religions try to make sense of the world by denying its existence, the human experience quickly refutes their ideas. The Christian may not be challenged by the specious claim that evil does not exist. However, the Christian worldview is challenged with the question of the origin of evil. Does the Bible give an account for the origin of evil? In this sermon on evil from Ephesians 6:10–13 titled “The Origin of Evil,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones declares that this is an important question for Christians to consider. He says that an understanding of the origins of evil will reflect an understanding of God. Since the apostle Paul has been teaching on these evil spiritual forces, Christians need to consider where these evil principalities and powers originate. Dr. Lloyd-Jones provides extended teaching on the topic by looking at various Old Testament passages, including Genesis. Dr. Lloyd-Jones combines this teaching with clues given in the New Testament about the personality of the chief strongman, Satan, and argues for a pre-cosmic fall. Dr. Lloyd-Jones maintains that in order to make sense of the world today, the Christian must look back to eternity past. Listen in as he instructs on this perplexing but all important topic on the origin of evil.

The Glory of God

Ephesians 1:6

Forgiveness of sin is the heart of redemption in Christ. But that is different than saying God’s primary motivation for redemption is forgiveness of sin. In this sermon on “The Glory of God” from Ephesians 1:6, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones remarks that errant thinking places the human being at the center of salvation rather than God. Instead, the glory of God is the great motive that led God to plan and purpose redemption in Christ. Christians are often lethargic about their salvation but Paul says Christians are redeemed to praise Him. Why should Advent illicit praise to God? Chiefly because in the coming of Christ the revelation of God’s glory is seen. Although the glory of God is difficult to define, the term implies God’s beauty, majesty, splendor, greatness, might and eternity. Dr. Lloyd-Jones walks through various passages in order to demonstrate how this theme runs throughout Scripture (Genesis 3:24; Exodus 40:34–37; Isaiah 6; Luke 2:14; 2 Corinthians 4:6). Placing the glory of God at the front of one’s mind can have great effects in evangelism. By emphasizing the glory of God in their proclamation of the gospel, Christians shall be much more apostolic in their method. While God is about His glory, the highest manifestation of that glory is found in the salvation of sinners.

... Rise Up and Walk

Acts 3:6

Are humans really born sinful? Is it truly something that contaminates everyone? Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains in this sermon from Acts 3:6 entitled “Rise Up and Walk”, how all are sinners from birth and completely unable to do good in accordance with God’s Law. Their natures are fundamentally corrupt and disordered, and out of this nature comes their propensity to do evil and sin. The reason all humanity is like this can be explained in Genesis and the fall. When Adam fell into sin, he caused all of his descendants to do so as well. This explains humanity’s current plight and need for salvation. No one is able to save themselves from sin because their nature has been wholly disposed to sin and unrighteousness. Only the gospel can break the chains of sin and give freedom. This Gospel is by God’s grace alone, for sinners are spiritually dead and unable to do any good act pleasing to God. It is in humanity’s hopeless state that the gospel of Jesus Christ brings hope. It is this same gospel that was preached by the Apostles two thousand years ago, and it is the message that transformed the world – rise up and walk! This is the only hope for the world, for it alone can triumph over sin and evil to bring salvation to all who believe.

Revival Sermon: To Know Him

Genesis 26:17-18

Christians should pray Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3:16–19 for themselves and for the church. In this sermon on Genesis 26:17–18 titled “Revival Sermon: To Know Him,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains how today’s church is like the Laodicean church, thinking they are rich when they are poor. All are blind to their true spiritual state. But, as Dr. Lloyd-Jones states, “we must have a true concern for the glory of God.” Preliminary to revival is a thirst for God. Dr. Lloyd-Jones reveals the church’s need for vital living water, much like the need of water Isaac had from the wells of Abraham. The church must be careful of serious hindrances to that flow of water such as dead orthodoxy, and the failure to seek God, to know God, and to apply the truth. Christians must also examine themselves in light of Scripture. There is a right and a wrong way of self-examination and one’s orthodoxy determines which way they will go. The Christian should never be depressed or miserable, but some Christians are because of a wrong self-examination. When a person truly knows Christ, their sins will drive them to Him, not further from Him. Dr. Lloyd-Jones concludes that this comes with a desperate need for prayer, for a person who is burdened is one who prays.

Purpose of Salvation

Romans 8:17-18

According to Genesis 1–2, humanity is the crown of God’s creation. Adam and Eve’s innocent state before the God whose image and likeness they reflected represented the tremendous glory given to them. Sadly, all this was affected by the fall. What then is the ultimate goal of salvation? As wonderful as forgiveness of sin may be, is salvation merely that? As gracious as avoiding the eternal wrath of God in hell would be, is that all salvation is about? Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says in this sermon on salvation that God should be praised because salvation is so much more. Not only does the Christian attain the original glory of humanity in the garden, but in Christ they anticipate and will receive much more glory than Adam ever experienced – perfection. In this sermon on Romans 8:17–18 titled “Purpose of Salvation,” Dr. Lloyd-Jones lays out the apostle Paul’s argument regarding the glorification that awaits the Christian. Glorification is the Christian’s goal, not mere justification, and not even sanctification. Dr. Lloyd-Jones says a biblical view of glorification is important for Christian lives, especially during times of great suffering. In fact, Paul constantly connects suffering with glory in the life of the believer. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones brings out the great implications and application of this truth for the Christian life today.

O Come Let Us Adore Him

Micah 5:2

The story of the human race points to Bethlehem. The focal point of history is Bethlehem. Everything in the Scriptures points to Bethlehem. In this Christmas sermon on Micah 5:2 titled “O Come Let Us Adore Him,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones brings out the marvelous character of the season. But how does one respond to the Christmas season? Do they marvel at it? Are they amazed by it? Often people are distracted by many other messages during this time. Listen as Dr Lloyd-Jones looks at Micah 5:2 in order to move the church to adore the great Savior Jesus Christ. In this message, Dr. Lloyd-Jones says Christians marvel at Bethlehem because it is where God’s promises are fulfilled. In Bethlehem, God the Father was vindicating His character and proving Himself to be faithful, beginning in Genesis 3. What is more, it is in Bethlehem that the eternal counsel by the triune God was made manifest as the Son of God came to earth. Jesus Christ was just like every other babe, for He was fully human. But He was unlike every other babe in that He is from everlasting. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones connects the promises of God from the Old Testament to their fulfillment in the babe in the manger. He encourages the listener to come, adore, and marvel at the mystery of Bethlehem.

The Order of Creation

Ephesians 5:22-24

What does God’s word say about marriage? Sadly, what it does say is often misunderstood and attacked because it confronts the thinking of today. In this sermon on Ephesians 5:22–24 titled “The Order of Creation,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones argues that Scripture alone presents a balanced view of the roles and responsibilities within marriage. Only in Scripture is it taught that wives are to submit to their husbands in love and respect just as Jesus Christ submits to God. There is no authoritarianism because the husband’s role as leader is one of love and service, not domination and cruelty. Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows how this view of marriage is taught from the beginning of the Bible in Genesis before the fall. Even in the perfect Garden of Eden, woman was created as a helper for man. Even before the fall, man was the head, provider, and protector of the woman in the relationship between husband and wife. Paul expounds on the teaching in Ephesians 5:22–24 and is not saying anything different from the rest of the Bible. So those who reject this teaching of male headship are not only rejecting the teachings of the historic Christian church, but also of God’s infallible word. The rejection of the biblical understanding of marriage is at the heart of many of society’s problems. When people try to live in direct contradiction to God’s plan, there is always suffering and unrest.

But God was With Him

Acts 7:9-10

Is God in charge of every detail? He is sovereign over the universe, but what about on a moment-by-moment level? In the sermon “But God was With Him,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains from Genesis to Revelation how God is at work on every level. This is true in the case of Abraham and the patriarchs as described all throughout the Old Testament. God is not abstract and above history, but He is very present in the world. He is actively working to bring about His great plan for the world. What is His plan? It is nothing less than the salvation of all who believe though the death, burial, and resurrection of the Son of God, Jesus Christ. God loves the world and He has acted through his Son to redeem it. Apart from His atoning work, there is no hope of salvation. Human effort cannot erase the guilt of sin or impress the holy God. The only hope for the world is not in human efforts or schemes, but in God who has acted in the world through his Son and the gospel. It is this gospel alone that is the power of God to save and redeem. It is by God’s actions that the world will be redeemed, not by human ingenuity and creativity. The church of today must proclaim this glorious truth of God and His plan and power to save through Christ Jesus.