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Give Thanks Unto the Lord

Psalms 107:1-31

In this sermon, “Give Thanks Unto the Lord” from Psalm 107:1–31, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones defines the Christian as the one who sees their sin and brokenness. They see their weakness and flee to Christ, abandoning all efforts of saving themselves. Regardless of one’s background and upbringing, what unifies all of humankind is their fallen nature and their need for redemption in Christ. All are born in Adam and are children of wrath. It is from this mess of fallen humankind that Christians are saved through the work of Christ. It is Christ that delivers people from sin and gives them new life in the midst of their distress. All Christians are saved through the same blood, Savior, and God. This common salvation applies to all people regardless of their personality. It saves all people regardless of their ethnic background and cultural background. The peace that Christ brings applies to everyone in all times and in all places. This is because Jesus Christ fulfills the deepest need of everyone. He delivers all who cry out and believe from their sin and brokenness by leading them into the heavenly Jerusalem, making them a new people by the power of His blood. Jesus delivers from all brokenness and sin by the power of His gospel.

The Sword and the Song

Psalms 149:5-6

In this sermon from 1977, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones reflects on the state of evangelicalism in Britain over the previous decade since he issues his call for evangelicals to leave their mixed congregations. Focusing particularly on shifts he has observed among Anglican evangelicals, Dr Lloyd-Jones argues that the past ten years has seen a dramatic drift away from historic evangelical positions on Scripture, salvation, and ecclesiology among many who still claim the evangelical label. Dr. Lloyd-Jones sees this exemplified in books like "Growing into Union" and events like the 1977 Nottingham Congress, where he perceives a blurring of lines between evangelicals and Anglo-Catholics. He laments what he views as compromises on biblical authority, cooperation with Roman Catholics, and a move away from Reformation principles. Dr. Lloyd-Jones calls for a renewed "battle for the Bible" and contends that mixed denominations inevitably lead to doctrinal compromise. He urges evangelicals to maintain clear theological distinctives and separation from error, while also cultivating joy and praise to God. The sermon combines theological analysis, historical perspective, and pastoral exhortation as Dr. Lloyd-Jones seeks to rally British evangelicals to stand firm for biblical truth in changing times. He sees the British Evangelical Council as playing a crucial role in upholding historic evangelical convictions against modern trends of accommodation and ecumenism. Throughout, Dr. Lloyd-Jones emphasizes the need for both doctrinal fidelity and spiritual vitality - wielding "the sword" of God's Word while also lifting up "high praises" to the Lord.

The Sparrow

Psalms 84:3

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.

Dead Religion

Psalms 50:1-23

The sinner thinks God is like a human. They believes God will simply forget their sin. They assume God will forget it and not deal with it. But does God overlook sin? Is He not the solemn judge of the heavens and earth? The atheist outright rejects this God and their life is lived accordingly with no contradiction. The atheist believes there is no God and their actions mirror those beliefs. In this sermon on Psalm 50:1–23 titled “Dead Religion,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones sets forth to express how there is a human worse than the atheist: they claim to believe in God yet lives their life as if there is no God. Exploring Psalm 50:1–23, Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that this person believes that God is like themselves. They believe that God will not deal with sin and they ignore God’s wrath. They deny God’s judgement, assuming there is no hell. They minimize their own sin. This error is not simply doctrinal deficiency, but they have made a god in their own image. On the contrary, God wants people to know who He truly is. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones calls the hearer to rightly know God and see His salvation so that Christians may live lives praising and glorifying His name.

... Set the Lord Always Before Me

Psalms 16:8

What is the secret to a life of spiritual longevity? How did saints of old overcome the daily battle of temptation and trouble? In this sermon on Psalm 16:8 titled “… Set the Lord Always Before Me,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones expounds on this psalm of David to share this secret. It is the daily decision to actively set the Lord always before oneself. This daily spiritual discipline enables the Christian to face the uncertainty of the future without fear as one considers who the Lord is and who they are to Him. Dr. Lloyd-Jones encourages with a gracious reminder that there are two things the Christian can do to “set the Lord before us.” First, they must make an active decision to consciously remind themselves of God. It is an act of determination to think on the Lord and what He has done; otherwise their lives will be swept into busyness and God becomes secondary in thoughts and affections. Secondly, after one sets their hearts steadfastly on seeking the presence of God, they turn to the means of communion with God. Christians seek Him through prayer and reading Scripture. They are the means of communing with God on days when one feels like seeking Him as well as the days their hearts feel cold and distant from Him. Find encouragement from Dr. Lloyd-Jones’s preaching on David’s resolute desire to battle temptation and find comfort in setting the Lord always before him.

The Valley of Bacca

Psalms 84:5-7

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!

What is Man?

Psalms 8:3-4

Do Christians think? In this sermon on “What is Man?” from Psalms 8:3–4, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones asserts the wonder of creation and the fact that only the Christian can really perceive. Psalm 8:3-4 shows how the believer thinks differently from the unbeliever. The Christian mind is guided by the Bible, rather than by the media and news. The Christian should marvel and wonder at creation, not just live life from one news highlight to the next. Is Christianity really against the advance of science? Look at the persecution of Galileo and the Protestant Reformation that pushed science forward. There is a difference between accidental happening and intentional creation. Why are order and laws of creation in place? Learn the difference between a thinker and a superficial reactor. Dr. Lloyd-Jones addresses the problem, the contradiction, the uniqueness, and the tragedy of humanity. People are worshippers and the only hope for humanity and the world is that this is God’s world. God visited and redeemed this world. The listener will discover the series of “launchings” of the Son of God. There is great urgency to be encapsulated in Christ before one is launched into the presence of a Holy God.

Blinded by Sin

Psalms 8:3-4

Why does humanity not see creation as God’s own handiwork? In this sermon on Psalm 8:3–4 titled “Blinded by Sin,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones addresses this important theological question and shows its significance for the Christian life. The reason that humanity can look at creation and believe it is anything other than the creation of God is because they are blinded by sin. All are born in sin and naturally opposed to God. So they reject God, not because of reason, but because of sinful prejudice. The psalmists teach this, but it is also seen in the New Testament through the life and ministry of Jesus when He performs great signs and wonders to the people. But in the end, the people still cry out for Him to be crucified, for they still did not believe that He was God’s Son. This is because of the sinful principle in all hearts. What is the answer to humanity’s blindness and hard-heartedness? The answer is only found in the grace of God in Jesus Christ. Only by God giving His Son and opening the eyes of sinners can anyone be saved. Salvation is wholly a gift of God wherein He gives salvation freely as a gift.

The fool says in his heart, "There is no God"

Psalms 14:1

What does it mean to be a fool? According to Scripture, to be a fool is not merely being ignorant of the truth, but it is opposing the wisdom of God. This is why all those that deny that God exists are called fools; they have rejected God’s revelation of Himself in His Word and in His creation. In this sermon “The Fool Says in His Heart, “There is No God,” from Psalm 14:1 Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches on the folly of rejecting God as Lord and Creator. Scripture tells that God has clearly revealed Himself, and it is only an act of foolish rebellion that leads men and women to deny that God exists and has created all things. God has given evidence that He exists in all of creation, from the stars above to human consciousness. The greatest tragedy of the fool is not only that they have rejected God as their creator, but that they have also rejected God as their savior. Jesus Christ is God’s only appointed means of salvation; to reject Him is to reject God’s love and grace. The ultimate answer to human rebellion is the sovereign electing grace of God for it is only God’s grace that can overcome sin.

Fellowship with the Father

Psalms 73:25-26

When everything else fails, is the Christian standing on the solid rock? On this rock, they will never be moved. In this sermon on Psalm 73:25–26 titled “Fellowship with the Father,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains that God is this very foundation of life and notes how the psalmist turns to worship. The psalmist arrives at the goal of salvation: desiring and worshipping God alone. Everything else takes second place to God. For this psalmist, first place belongs to Him. The psalmist has discovered that there is no satisfaction apart from God. He then gives himself to the adoration of this rock. The Christian should long for God and desire to know Him and they may inquire how might they stand on this solid ground. First, Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that the Christian must discover there is nobody else who can help them but God. Second, the Christian then desires God Himself, not merely what God gives or does. Eternal life, as described by the apostle John, is fellowship with God. The Christian should ask themselves what are they looking for in heaven, and if it is God or merely for the blessings of God. They are encouraged to listen to this sermon and build their life on this foundation stone because God is the rock.

Worship in the Spirit

Ephesians 5:19

What is the role that singing is supposed to play in the church? What are the Lord’s instructions for how He is to be praised through song? In this sermon on Ephesians 5:19 titled “Worship in the Spirit,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones answers these questions and more. In this passage, Paul is concerned with how the Holy Spirit is manifested when believers gather together for worship. But what is his intent in this section? Is it meant to prescribe the exact style of worship that every church should have? Dr. Lloyd-Jones uses Scripture to provide helpful commentary on why this is not the case. Paul here is calling for a unified expression of joy through singing, specifically through “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.” Though they might sound as if they are the same, Dr. Lloyd-Jones is careful to show the differences. A psalm is a sacred song intended to be sung with the accompaniment of a musical instrument. A hymn is a song of praise to God. Finally, a song is an ode or lyric, which is why Paul describes it additionally as needing to be “spiritual.” Dr. Lloyd-Jones ends with a note on the permanence and importance of singing in the lives of believers, drawing on thousands of years of church history to show why this should have such a vital place in the spiritual walk of Christians.

Limiting God

Psalms 78:41

Is the Christian experience one of rejoicing, love, hope, and assurance of faith? Is that life marked by delight in God’s commands and promises? While God has promised great joy and hope to believers, Christians often follow the way of the Israelites when they doubt, complain, and live in a constant state of uncertainty. In this sermon on Psalm 78:41 titled “Limiting God,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones teaches that when the Christian follows this way, they limit God’s power, grace, and glory rather than showcasing His excellencies to the world. Complaining and heavy hearts declare to the world that the way of God is cumbersome and sorrowful. It says the commands of God are difficult and God is not concerned with the Christian’s joy. Follow along with Dr. Lloyd-Jones as he provides the “tests” of assurance, joy, delight, and peace to evaluate hearts in light of the life-giving promises of the Holy God. Listen and be reminded that God provides great joy that cannot be shaken to the believer who earnestly seeks the presence of the Triune God as their source of delight and life. Take comfort in knowing that an assurance of salvation is given as a means of joy and comfort for the believer and be challenged by Dr. Lloyd-Jones’s reminder that the believer who does not hold fast to these promises is limiting the Holy One of Israel.

A Little Lower than the Angels

Psalms 8:4

The Bible tells that creation is evidence for the Creator. It shows His majesty and power. However, people have failed to see His majesty in His creation. People should be able to appreciate the beauty of creation, but instead miss seeing God’s glory in it by only seeing facts. In this sermon “A Little Lower than the Angels,” from Psalm 8:4, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones speaks on the failure to see God in His creation, specifically His creation of humanity. He begins with the question “What is man?” to show how humanity has learned to answer this question apart from the creation of God. Some overestimate humanity, putting people above God. Others underestimate humanity, thinking of the human race as nothing of importance at all. He then moves on the biblical and right view of humanity: that it has been created in God’s image. People were made to glorify God and be in communion with Him. However, humanity turned its back on God by becoming slaves to sin, causing a distorted view of who they are. The good news is that Jesus came to save them from sin and help them become the people God created them to be in His image. He concludes by encouraging the Christian to see this truth and glorify God for it.

Why Do the Heathen Rage?

Psalms 2:1-12

In this sermon on Psalm 2, you will learn that Scripture always speaks to the precise position in which we each find ourselves today. Realize first, that in and of ourselves, we can do nothing. We must pray to God that He might pour out His Spirit in a manner that it might be irresistible. Listen as Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains how the second Psalm describes our present position. Are you astonished at the state of the world? This is a state of organized insanity and confusion. “Pride of man and earthly glory, sword and crown betray its trust, what with care and trial he buildeth, tower and temple fall to dust.” In this modern world, we must go back and read the instructions from our Maker – otherwise, there is no hope. The cause of our troubles and unhappiness is due to man’s sin. This is not simply weakness in human nature, it is a willful act and hatred against God. God looks upon mankind in wrath as man opposes both His Law and love. Love manifested in the death of His own Son. God's final appeal is to be wise, serving Him with fear, and rejoicing with trembling. The modern man needs reverent preaching, not shallow entertainment. Look at God's offer of salvation!

Perseverance of the Saints

Psalms 73:24

If it was God’s grace that saves humanity, will it not be God’s grace that keeps His people? This message is good news for the backslider. In this sermon on the perseverance of the saints from Psalm 73:24, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones highlights the grace of God in the believer’s future salvation. This doctrine, known as the perseverance of the saints, belongs at the bedrock of the faith. Dr. Lloyd-Jones begins with a proper understanding of God’s grace. God’s grace saves, restrains, and restores. The backsliding Christian will be restored because God is a God of grace. His grace is the reason all Christians are, remain, and we will be saved. Nothing, therefore, can separate the believer from God’s love. First, this doctrine is rooted in God’s own character. When God starts a work, He completes it. One finds His rest in this unchangeable person of God. The true believer cannot slide too far from God’s saving grace because God’s work of redemption doesn’t change. Second, this doctrine stems from God’s purpose. God has intended to save humanity from their sin for God’s own glory. Since saving them from sin is God’s purpose, the weak Christian will indeed be saved. Finally, this doctrine rests in the power of God. Listen and know that God not only desires His children to be saved, but He has the ability to save.

Why Do the Nations rage?

Psalms 2:1-12; Acts 4:25-26

Pain, suffering, and ultimately death are inescapable parts of life. But why? How do we account for the troubles that are common throughout history? Why do the nations rage? The story of humanity shows a restless world always searching for answers that never provide relief. Listen as Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches through the text of Psalm 2 and Acts 4 to explain the vain and empty pursuits of those who purposefully rebel against God. While they dream and plan for a world of their own happiness, their attempts are futile because of their ignorance of God. God will judge their rebellion against Him and His wrath will be fierce. But there is hope. The psalmist speaks of deliverance that is echoed throughout the entire Bible. It culminates in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is the answer the world cannot provide — that God’s gracious purpose to extend mercy through his son Jesus, the Anointed One, to a restless and rebellious world brings the joy and deliverance the world desperately wants.

What is Man ... ? (1970)

Psalms 8:3-4

In this sermon on Psalm 8:3–4 titled “What is Man…?” spoken at Trinity Road Chapel Centenary in 1970, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones responds to the accusations of the world that Christians are stuck in the past and unaware of what is happening in the modern world. The Christian gospel is necessary to consider the past and to face the future. Dr. Lloyd-Jones says that the only people truly thinking in this world are the Christians. Governed entirely by the Bible, this is a new way of thinking and “considering” things. Christians are not anti-scientific. In fact, true Christianity has been the greatest stimulus for scientific discovery. Learn how the Protestant Reformation liberated people from Greek philosophy and encouraged the scientific revolution. The mind of God alone offers an adequate explanation for the intricacies of creation. Listen to the majesty of humanity, the companion of God, the mark of the divine stamp, the tragedy of humanity, and the great contradiction of humanity. People are hero worshippers with marred faculties. This life determines eternity, there are no second chances—enter in and be eternally safe.

Why Do the Nations Rage ...?

Psalms 2:1

In this sermon on Psalm 2:1 titled “Why Do the Nations Rage…?” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones tells how nothing else holds out hope in this modern world other than the message of Scripture. Look at the state and condition of the human race. Humankind is always restless, with a constant desire for peace and rest. They look at a raging storm in this age of people who are proud of their sin. Christians alone face the facts; nonbelievers are continually devising empty and futile schemes. Even attempts for peace do not succeed—look at history with the League of Nations and United Nations. People try to put their trust and confidence in politics, education, science, and philosophy. The state of the world today is simply “organized insanity.” Discover the deliberate rebellion that causes all of this. The law was not given to hold down. It is madness to believe in worldly theory and not believe in God. All are under the judgment of God and His wrath is upon sin. Rejoice that none are not left without a solution but should look at God’s free forgiveness.

General Consideration

Psalms 42:5

This sermon is for the Christian who is unhappy, feels heavy burdens weighing them down, and cannot escape feelings of despair. In this sermon on Psalm 42:5 titled “General Consideration,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones shows how God’s word addresses depression. A depressed Christian is not a contradiction of terms; it is a reality the church must learn to address with the hope-filled truth of Scripture. Dr. Lloyd-Jones addresses the extrovert and introvert, both with their tendency to overanalyze one’s self which leads to weariness and dejection. His challenge is to “get to know yourself” and understand personal triggers. Physical conditions also play a part in spiritual depression, says Dr. Lloyd-Jones. The Christian must be aware of this so as to readily push back against the devil. The enemy cannot control the Christian, but he can and will use exaggerated circumstances to further discourage. The psalmist in turn encourages two things: first, speak the word to oneself instead of allowing the mind as it wander into despair. Second, remind oneself of God and His love. He encourages the Christian to defy themselves and the world by putting hope in God.

Man Under Sin

Romans 3:10-12

The word of God is a terrifying mirror to those who are not saved. No one is innocent as all have sinned, Jews and Gentiles alike. Paul quotes the Psalms to prove his point: “There is no one righteous, not even one” (Romans 3:10). The Jews had access to the Old Testament, yet they were tragically blind in regards to their own Scriptures and Paul reminds them of what God has stated multiple times. All are under the guilt of sin and all have been born into sin through Adam. In the sermon from Romans 3:10–12 titled “Man Under Sin,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones points out that it is essential to understand this before one can truly understand the gospel. A person must understand how truly sinful and deceitful human nature is. This will lead to evangelism, showing people their need for salvation by convicting them first of their sin. Paul continues in giving a greater description of sin and how it distorts their view of the world, humankind, and God. Even if the Jews attempted to argue that they were not under condemnation, Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that Paul was attempting to thwart all arguments by providing adequate evidence.