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The Light Shines in the Darkness

John 1:5

What happens when the joy of salvation begins to fade? How does the joy of salvation deliver us from the darkness of life? The apostle John confronts this critical threat. In this sermon on light and darkness, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones shows us how this modern day problem exposes lethargy in the believer's heart, the failure to rely on the Holy Spirit, and the depths of darkness from which we are saved. It's not until we understand the depths of our sin that the church can fathom the greatness of the Word becoming flesh. The world is in a current state of darkness that has pervaded every aspect of human history since the Fall. Dr. Lloyd-Jones notes that this darkness is twofold; it is not only a state of ignorance that mankind is in, but that the darkness is also within man's heart, as manifested by his love of sin and hatred of Christian doctrine. However, God has sent believers the Holy Spirit, who through enlightening the believer's eyes to the truth about God and the glory of His salvation, enables them to be lights themselves in the persistent darkness.

Glory in Tribulation

Romans 5:5

What is the place of tribulation in the life of the Christian? Often times, people see hardships as nothing more than obstacles to their happiness and joy. They see no deeper purpose in the hardships. But in this sermon titled “Glory in Tribulation” on Romans 5:5, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones shows how Scripture paints a different picture of what hardships are about. For those that trust in God and who have His Holy Spirit, suffering is a means of becoming more like Jesus Christ. It is a means of deepening and strengthening one’s faith in God and to grow in holiness. As Christians go through these trials, they come to a greater assurance of who they are in Christ. So then, there is great hope for those that suffer as followers of Christ. This sermon holds out a great hope for all who are in the midst of trials and tribulations because it displays how Christ is working in His people in and through life’s hardships. This sermon is a call for all to repent of their sins and come to Jesus. It is a call to return to God the Creator and seek His glory. This is the only life of true and lasting joy.

A Burning Heart

Luke 24:25-26

In this sermon on Luke 24:25–26 titled “A Burning Heart,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches from the New Testament passage regarding the two men walking to Emmaus. The gospel author uses four words to initially describe these men: “their hearts were sad.” Later, however, they undergo a massive emotional change as they end up with their “hearts burning within them.” Dr. Lloyd-Jones says there is nothing more important than this change because when people claim to be Christians and yet have a heavy heart, they are a poor witness: “Masses of people are outside the church today because they look at us and see what we are.” Are Christians making the gospel attractive to people? Are they, as Paul instructs them to be in 2 Corinthians 2:16, a sweet-smelling aroma? For many believers, it is still a struggle to live in the joy that is theirs in Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones says that the remedy for this is to pray and ask the Spirit to open one’s eyes to the truth and to enlighten them so that their heart rejoices. Sincere joy in the Lord will aid the Christian’s testimony.

A Man in Christ

Philippians 3:12-17

In this sermon on Philippians 3:12–17 titled “A Man in Christ,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches on the biblical view of Christianity—one that fills people with joy. More than just knowing facts about Jesus, Christianity is about personally knowing Jesus Himself. Part of the way this is seen is through the Holy Spirit, the helper God sent to live inside of believers to help them as they live in a world hostile to Jesus. The Holy Spirit helps to live and handle everything life throws, spiritually and otherwise. What does it mean to follow Christ in the midst of these struggles? Dr. Lloyd-Jones elaborates on the riches of the blessings that come along with pursuing Christ and choosing to follow Him instead of the fleeting pleasures of the world. Echoing the words of the Apostle Paul, he reminds that Christians are to count everything else as rubbish when compared to the glory of Christ. This, however, is not the joyless walk that some imagine it to be—rather, those who follow Christ like this are filled with the utmost joy because they are satisfied in Christ, the only one who can truly satisfy their longings.

Mind; Heart and Will

Romans 6:17

Christians can become spiritually depressed, perhaps not experiencing the joy of their salvation. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains that they often do not realize the greatness of the gospel. In this sermon on Romans 6:17 titled “Mind, Heart, and Will,” Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows that the Christian message involves the whole person, and the whole person is to be affected by it. Christians cannot rejoice in the gospel if their doctrine is unbalanced or lopsided. Some Christians emphasize merely the morality of the Christian message. Others believe Christianity is only about forgiveness of sins. This is due to the fact that many preachers embrace doctrine that lacks balance. Converts often look like the people God used in their conversion, picking up their characteristics. Thus, for many, their understanding of the Christian message is lacking. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones argues that the gospel transforms the whole person, not simply part of them. A Christian is one who knows why they are what they are. A Christian must be ready to give a reason for the hope within. As a Christian battles spiritual depression, it is imperative that they know the whole gospel and have been affected by it. In this way, one may, once again, experience the joy of their salvation.

Christmas: an Event in History

Titus 2:11-14

Christmas can come and pass without Christians truly questioning what the season means. This is a tragedy because Christians can easily adopt the world’s view of Christmas if there is not proper effort and diligence. The world will celebrate the season with a vague principle called the “Christmas spirit” – general benevolence and encouragement to each other to be a little nicer than before. Or the world will tout a gospel of peace where nations, political leaders, and governments are addressed about their bombs and armaments. But how does the apostle Paul react to the coming of Christ? What does the celebration of Christmas mean to him? In this sermon on Titus 2:11–14 titled “Christmas: An Event in History,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones argues that Paul reacted with the deepest feelings, emotions, and praise at the appearing of the Son of God. This praise and shouts of joy were because of an actual event in history that took place. God’s grace appeared, not in a teaching or principle primarily, but in a real person whom Paul declares is the great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones challenges the listener to ascribe to the “facts” of Christmas without losing the joy that the event should bring.

The Preachers Message (1)

Romans 10:14-17

In his sermon on Romans 10:14–17 titled “The Preacher’s Message (1),” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones tackles an important question: what are preachers supposed to preach? Drawing from Paul’s writing in this passage, he reminds that preaching is God’s primary purpose for delivering the gospel. How is a person supposed to judge if a pastor is exercising good preaching? Dr. Lloyd-Jones devises a test. If the message does not bring “glad tidings,” it should probably be reconsidered. The good news is called the good news for a reason, he says. The incredible salvation believers have through the grace of God is cause for celebration. Dr. Lloyd-Jones gives three common examples of people preaching without the gospel’s joy. He says to be wary of people saying Christians are supposed to bring the kingdom; the kingdom is already coming. He says to look out for people who preach strictly on Christ’s morals as morals are not God’s grace. He also says to beware of preachers who tell the congregation to put their faith in the church; the church is not the avenue to salvation. With that, Dr. Lloyd-Jones concludes his sermon in stating that the one true faith believers have is in Jesus Christ and the joy that comes with it.

A New and Living Way

Hebrews 10:19-22

Genuine Christians may lack joy in Christ if they lack certainty of their relationship with God. In this sermon on Hebrews 10:19–22 titled “A New and Living Way,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches of how the writer encourages the reader to have full assurance and draw near to Christ. He addresses the chief problem: the conscience condemns. In one’s own nature, no one is able to come before the throne of God in prayer because of sin. Dr. Lloyd-Jones highlights the Old Testament temple practices of entering the Holiest of Holies and the work of the priest. This was the old way, one that required blood and priests. It was a kind of communion with God few would enter. This practice, however, paved the way to a new and better way. Through the blood of Christ, the vilest of sinners can enter the holiest of all. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that Jesus washes and sanctifies the believer, clothing them in righteousness, and fitting them for the presence of God. As the High Priest, Jesus has gone before them and has prepared a way for believers to commune with God. Therefore, draw near to God with a true heart having full assurance of faith. Listen and experience the joy of the Christian life.

Rivers of Living Water

John 4:13-14

What makes Christians different from everybody else? The answer is found in the work of the Holy Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who transforms believers and sets them apart from the world. This indwelling of the Holy Spirt ought to make believers more peaceful, joyful, and loving. This is seen in the early church as recorded in the book of Acts when the Holy Spirt comes upon the church at Pentecost and transforms them. They are given strength and boldness as the Holy Spirit grants them joy and peace in Christ. Sadly, many believers do not allow the Holy Spirit to work in them because they quench the work of the Spirit. In this sermon on John 4:13–14, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones warns against this quenching of the Spirit, but he also says that the Christian must not fall into excesses. They must look to God’s word to define who the Spirit is and how He works in the church and world. All Christians are commanded to live not in their own strength, but to rest wholly in the Spirit of Christ. It is in the work of the Spirit that Christians can experience joy, peace, and the love of God. All Christians should look to the Spirit of God who is given as the great comforter to all of God’s children.

The Preachers Message (2)

Romans 10:14-17

In his sermon on Romans 10:14–17 titled “The Preacher’s Message (2),” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones talks about the great joy believers have within the gospel. Reading from this Scripture passage, he reminds the listener of the basics of the good news and how it should inspire Christians. He says that preaching is God’s chief appointed role for sharing the gospel to the congregation and unbelievers. Because of this responsibility, it’s important for preachers to integrate the good news into their message. Dr. Lloyd-Jones offers this suggestion with a warning to the congregation: do not grow tired of hearing the gospel. It is easy for Christians to forget the amazing power bestowed by God to those who believe. Dr. Lloyd-Jones takes an opportunity to remind Christians of what they have in Christ. He says that God gave His Son for the forgiveness of sins simply because He is rich in mercy and grace, as seen in Ephesians 2. Dr. Lloyd-Jones expounds upon the daily intercession Christ takes for Christians at the right hand of the Father. He goes on to describe the groaning of the Holy Spirit that prays when believers don’t know what to pray for. With these incredible privileges, Dr. Lloyd-Jones concludes with a call to obey the gospel and take joy in the promises within.

A More Excellent Way

John 1:12-13

In the sermon titled “A More Excellent Way,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones continues his series on John 1:12–13 by shedding light on the topic of the Holy Spirit. This topic, which is often shrouded in foggy notions and vague ideas, has light to bring to the Christian stranded in a dark season of lack of assurance. For anyone who fears grieving the Holy Spirit, there is assurance. The person who does not know God may fear losing their good name. They may fear failure, but be assured, Christians should not fear grieving the Holy Spirit. Dr. Lloyd-Jones touches on these notes, as well the difference between spiritual gifts and spiritual fruit, and several other chords that ring close to the heartbeat of the Christian. Before he closes his discourse, Dr. Lloyd-Jones focuses on the way that three of the fruit of the Spirit impact the Christian life – love, joy, and peace. The sermon asks the listener to examine their own soul and ask “do these divine realities live in my soul? Do I weep when the Holy Spirit is grieved by my sin? Does love for God and love for my neighbor mark my life? Does joy and peace mark my soul despite suffering and hardship?”

Meeting Trials and Tribulations

1 Peter 1:13

Persecution of Christians is on the rise around the world and it’s not limited by geography or governmental laws. How can people of faith stand strong in the face of trials and tribulations? Is it better to ignore the issues, or face them head-on? The Apostle Paul acknowledges that instead of encountering fewer trials, Christians will have more tribulations than those who aren’t saved. Biblical trials and tribulations come from striving to live godly lives in a world that hates anything that resembles God's holiness. But yet, they are still called to rejoice. This can be hard to do, and Christians may struggle with finding joy while going through hard times. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says that Christians, while talking about the joy and peace Jesus gives us, often respond to trials the same way the world does— with despair and anxiety. In this way, the Christian testimony does not line up with how they live their lives. In 1 Peter 3, the author challenges us to conquer this defeatist mindset, not by building up positive emotion, but rather by “girding up the loins” of the mind and by choosing to dwell on the greatness of salvation as shown in the biblical text. The Christian can often think too lightly about their salvation, but is encouraged to fight this and preach the gospel to themselves. God is the sovereign Father, and eternal inheritance in Him is guaranteed.

God's World

John 1:10-12

In this sermon on John 1:10–12, Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows the firm foundation that gives those who are saved total security, peace, and even joy in the worst of trouble. All are living in God’s world and under His sovereign control. The meaning behind events is hidden, but it is known and designed by the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows how God permits evil to exist in the world as a means of teaching, instructing, and showing the need for salvation. No matter how dire the circumstances, the providence of God is at work to care for His world and show compassion for His children. The plan of God to save sinners will not be undone.

The Blessings of the New Covenant

What are the results and consequences of the atonement? In this sermon on covenant blessings, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explores the new covenant made on Calvary by the blood of Jesus Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones returns back to the Old Testament laws and sacrifices that give the context for the New Testament’s teaching on this saving decree and the significance of Jesus Christ as the Savior and High Priest. Dr. Lloyd-Jones also deals with the issue of antinomianism and how the everlasting covenant under Jesus dispels wrong thinking. Clear thinking on the new covenant fills the believer with boldness, assurance, and confidence in their access to God. When God’s children are unified with Christ, His forgiveness of sins is applied to their account and they live in ongoing joy and peace before Him.

Not Ashamed of the Gospel

Romans 1:16-17

The Protestant Reformation erupted from Romans 1:16-17. In this sermon, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones examines these vital and crucial verses that were the catalyst for Martin Luther. Some of the audience to whom Paul wrote may have been ashamed and discouraged in their faith but in boldness and inspiring confidence, Paul wrote “I am not ashamed of the gospel.” Though the world ridicules the teachings of Christ and calls those who believe foolish, our faith is a fact, not a philosophy. The world might see us as fools, but we are affirmed and protected by our Savior. The gospel is full of hope for the fallen world. As the Doctor explains, Paul’s teaching exposes the sin of humanity and that Christ’s death and resurrection were for all social statuses. Thus, every person can rest in the hope that there is joy of being loved by our Lord and in being considered foolish in the eyes of the world.

Glorying in God

Romans 5:10-11

Is the Christian finding glory in God? Is He their delight? In this sermon on Romans 5:10–11, Paul has already confirmed that salvation is assured in Christ Jesus and so this means the Christian should have joy in Christ Jesus and what He has done. Christians should glory both in their salvation and in God as the giver of salvation. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones goes as far as to say that true Christian faith always leads to glorying in God. He states that things such as trusting in oneself rather than God, failure to mediate on the things of God, and not reasoning with Scripture could all be causes for a failure to properly glory in God. Not glorying in God is a sign of unbelief and a sin and unbelief is the chief of all sins. A Christian should be in constant examination of themselves to ensure that they are always glorying in Christ. All self-examination should lead to rejoicing.

Repentance

What is the difference between repentance and remorse? In this sermon on repentance, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones addresses the incredible weight of these topics that separate eternal life from death. Repentance is a turning from sin to Christ. It is a genuine regret and full confession of sin. But how does it differ from worldly remorse? Dr. Lloyd-Jones carefully explains that while repentance involves feelings of anguish and guilty remorse, it is repentance that results in a change of mind. Worldly remorse will cry, but not forsake and turn away from sinful activities. The gospel message must call others to submit their life to Christ, not just feel bad about their sin. Only once one has been saved can they come to know the joy of discipleship, forgiveness, and move forward in Christian living. For the gospel message to be believable, the world must see transformed lives, lives redeemed from eternal death.

Follow Me

Matthew 9:9

In this sermon, "Follow Me", from Matthew 9:9, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones helps the listener understand the meaning when Jesus says “Follow me.” Much more serious than being lost in a strange place, all of humankind is completely lost in their sin. Jesus says that all are blinded by their sin, dead in their trespasses, and condemned before a Holy God. When Jesus says to follow Him, He means that He alone must be followed. Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows that salvation means to follow Jesus and to become a slave to Him. It is not a light decision, but the rewards are worth it. To follow Jesus may mean loss of friends, persecution, and even death; but it also means that all sins are forgiven, the blessing of the most loving companion, and measurable joy. If anyone is burdened by sin today, they can lay them down at Jesus's feet and see that He will gladly take them if one will only follow and trust His way.

Godly or Ungodly

Psalms 92:1-15

Humanity living life before God is the theme of Psalm 92 and the Bible as a whole. In this sermon on Psalm 92:1–15 titled “Godly or Ungodly,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones takes the opportunity to walk through the psalm and observe the life of people before God’s presence. What are the two types of people in this world? Listen to hear the only distinction that truly includes all people in one of two categories—the godly and the godless. The listener is encouraged to stop thinking about themselves and start thinking about the God who made them. Don’t be fooled; God’s wrath is coming and all need to be prepared. “Those planted in the house of the Lord will flourish in His courts.” Christians can rejoice in the Lord always because His promises are always true. There is a strength and joy that is found in the believer. Despite the droughts of life that come, the believer is kept and preserved in the Lord. Flourish by listening to the teaching of Scripture and learn to understand life in terms of God.

Religion or Christianity?

John 5:31-35

In part five of his series on John 5:31–35 in this sermon titled “Religion or Curiosity?” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones completes his exposition by exposing the wrong response to the truth of the gospel. By focusing on John the Baptist and his ministry, hearers responded to the parts they found favorable but did not listen to the whole truth of the gospel that he presented. As one examines John’s ministry, initially a favorable response to the truth is found. The man, the prophet, and the message tickled ears and fancied the listeners’ curious nature. But the favorable response to John’s light of truth only lasted for a season. The people marveled at him and his words as they longed for a messiah to heal their worldly problems. But John’s message, a preparation for the gospel and Jesus, was a message of repentance and it was not received well. John’s message extinguished the light of their joy. Thus, Dr. Lloyd-Jones asks, “Will your favorable response to the gospel be only for a season?"