Martyn Lloyd-Jones Sermon Podcast

Romans 6:7 — The phrase “don't be a baby” is used in everyday language, but what does that imply? It does not mean that people should put aside their childish ways, but that they are no longer a child so they should act like an adult. In the sermon on Romans 6:7 titled “Freed from the Tyranny of Sin,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones expands on his previous sermon by highlighting the same emphasis that Paul writes about in this passage. Once again, Paul is confirming that the old self has died with Christ and so the Christian has been set free from sin. They are no longer under the reign of sin and should live in accordance to this truth. Those who are in Christ are justified from the guilt of sin. Paul once again proves the assurance of salvation. While mortal bodies may still be tempted with sin, Christ's Holy Spirit dwells within and are no longer under the rule of sin. In the final day when Christ calls the believers home to Heaven, mortal bodies will then be free of all temptation. Dr. Lloyd-Jones encourages God's people to lift their eyes to anticipate that glorious day.

Romans 6:6-7 — If the old self has died to sin, then why does the Christian still struggle with sin? In the previous passage, Paul confirmed that the old self in Adam was crucified with Christ. In this passage, Paul specifically uses the term “the body of sin,” which means the body lived in today. In the sermon on Romans 6:6–7 titled “Freed from Sin,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones speaks at length to distinguish between the “old man” and the “body of sin” to which Paul refers. As a Christian, the old self is dead but the mortal body has not yet been delivered from the effects of sin and the fall. Sin still has a rule on the body and so one should long for the redemption of the body that will come. Paul warns that it is because of this exact purpose that the Christian should no longer live in sin and let the members of the body be instruments of sin. Why would the Christian act like the person who has already died? A day is soon coming when the body will be glorified, just as Christ's body was glorified when He ascended into Heaven. Let the Christian continue to fight the sin that tempts the carnal body and long for the day when they will be free from the effects of sin.

Romans 6:5-6 — What does it mean when Christians say to “put off the old man”? Sometimes, Christians can get carried away with the notion of the “old self,” saying they need the old self to die and be crucified. However, in this sermon from Romans 6:5–6 titled “The Old Man Was Crucified,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says that the old self is indeed gone and was crucified with Christ. Paul says that because the Christian is united with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection, any old self that was under the reign of sin has also died. Although the Christian was not physically with Christ during those acts, they were spiritually with Him. Even now, they are spiritually with Christ and growing. Instead of saying that the old self needs to die, Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that the Christian needs to shed old characteristics of sin. They should no longer live like the old self because He has already died. Paul guarantees that it has already been done and Christ's people are no longer slaves to sin.

Romans 6:3-4 — Does the battle against sin feel hopeless? Will the Christian ever conquer this war against their flesh? As Christians, all have died, been buried, and crucified with Christ. But yet they still sin. Paul explained that all Christians were previously under the wrath, rule, and reign of sin. However, just as they were related and joined with Adam, so now they are related and joined with Christ who died on the cross. In this sermon on Romans 6:3–4 titled “New Life,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones emphasizes that this happened without question. It is the first step in justification. In addition to being joined in Christ's death, the Christian has been buried with Christ as well. Burial is always the final proof of death. This means that the Christian is truly done with their past way of life and sin and will join Christ in His resurrection. Christ could not be held by the power of death; the glory and power of God raised Him from the dead. That same glory and power also raised the Christian. Because of this, Dr. Lloyd-Jones urges the listener to walk in this newness of life and to rejoice in the fact that they are joined with Christ and walk with Him in the new life.

Romans 6:3 — In this sermon on Romans 6:3 titled “Union with Christ,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones breaks down several thoughts or viewpoints concerning baptism, including the Catholic and Protestant views. In addition, he also discusses several views within each belief. In Romans 6:3, it almost seems like Paul is stating that baptism into Christ is baptism in His death. Dr. Lloyd-Jones warns that if one is stumbling over specifics in the varying viewpoints, they could potentially miss the glories that baptism represents. The most glorious aspect of baptism is that Christians are in Christ and He is in them. The saved were once in Adam and dead because of sin, but their union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection is shown through baptism. This means that the final salvation is guaranteed. Whatever viewpoint is held, the Christian must always acknowledge that they are literally united with Christ and baptism shows a united nature with Him.

Romans 6:1-2 — What does it mean to have died to sin in Christ? This is a debated phrase that has had a number of interpretations throughout church history. In this sermon on Romans 6:12 titled “Transferred to the Reign of Grace,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says that understanding this Scripture is vital. This is important not merely as an academic exercise, but for the Christian life. He says that to have died to sin means that God has declared the Christian justified in Christ and a new person. It is the divine pronouncement of God's favor and total forgiveness for all who believe in Jesus Christ. The emphasis, says Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones, is always on what God has done for His people. This is why Paul expects the charge that he is encouraging sin so that grace might abound; he anticipates that this view of grace could be misunderstood. This sermon asks all saved people: “why are you in Christ? Has God declared you holy and in His Son?” It challenges Christians to see if they have truly believed in the gospel and received salvation from God. For only by believing in the cross of Jesus Christ can anyone be saved and made a child of God.

Romans 6:1-2 — In this sermon on Romans 6:1–2 titled “An Introduction to Romans 6,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains why this passage is so important. Here is found the great truth of justification by faith alone through the work of Christ alone. He explains why justification by faith alone rightly understood does not lead to a life of sin and immorality. This is because the gospel not only makes the Christian righteous before God, but also gives them the Holy Spirit and the desire to live a life of purity. It is only by abusing the doctrine of justification by faith alone that people are encouraged to sin and to break the law of God. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones shows how this is a deeply practical doctrine that has profound and lasting impact for how the Christian lives as a follower of Jesus Christ. All who come to Jesus as repentant sinners and believe upon His name will be saved, and justified by faith in Christ alone.

Romans 5:20-21 — What is the purpose of the law and why did God give it to Moses? Listen to this sermon on Romans 5:20–21 titled “The Law Came In” as Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones uses Scripture to explain the main function of the law. He begins by explaining that the law was not made to justify or condemn, as some might believe. Before moving to the real purpose of the law, Dr. Lloyd-Jones points out three ways that the law impacts. First, it increases knowledge of sin by defining it. Second, it increases conviction of sin by opening eyes to it. And lastly, the law actually increases sin. The law shed light on sin and made it evident in the lives of people. Based on these three truths, Dr. Lloyd-Jones then reveals the purpose of the law: to bring people to Christ and help them see their utter need of Him and His salvation. The law is what opens eyes to who they are as sinners and shows the inability to save themselves from it. This is where one experiences the fullness of the grace Christ has to offer. Christians can find hope in knowing that where sin abounds, His grace abounds more.

Romans 5:18-19 — In this sermon on Romans 5:18–19 titled “The Obedience of Christ,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones continues speaking on the topic of humanity's relationship with Adam and its relationship with Christ. He focuses again on the striking contrast between these two relationships and the different ways humanity has been affected by each one. He begins by pointing out the whole reason for looking into this topic: to show the completeness of justification by faith. Christians are not saved by their own doing because from the moment they are born, they are sinners. He then dives in deeper to how the one sin of Adam has affected all of humanity. It was through Adam's disobedience that all were made sinners. On the other hand, it was through Christ's one act of obedience that all can have salvation. Dr. Lloyd-Jones takes the time to point out in this exposition of Romans 5:18-19 that Christ was obedient in both an active and passive manner. It was because of His full obedience that sinners have been justified and God has pronounced the Christian righteous. However, this gift is nothing that was earned. It has been given freely because of the obedience of Christ. Praise the Lord for His goodness.

Romans 5:16-17 — In his previous sermon, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones pointed out the similarities of humanity's relationship to Adam and its relationship to Christ. In this sermon on Romans 5:16–17 titled “The Gift of Righteousness,” he shows that while there are several similarities, the most striking thing are the differences between these two relationships. He begins by pointing out that Adam's sin and disobedience led to judgment and condemnation. These both came through the act of one sin. In contrast, Jesus's one act of obedience led to the covering of all sins. This is the beauty of the gospel. How then should humanity react to this free gift of Jesus Christ? Despite the many sins, the Christian has now been justified, which means He blots out all sins and calls the Christian righteous. He goes on to point out that it was by one man's offense that death came and reigned in the world. But it was the one act of Jesus that defeated death and brought life. The Christian is given the righteousness of Christ when they believe in Him. No longer does death reign over them, but those who believe shall now find life in Christ. They have lost the fear of death and will reign with Christ for eternity.

Romans 5:12 — In the previous sermon, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones addressed that all humanity sinned when Adam sinned. But how is it that all sin in Adam? In this sermon on Romans 5:12 titled “Made Alive in Christ,” Dr. Lloyd-Jones dives into this topic by looking into several different views. The first view is the realistic view, which states that the whole of humanity resided in Adam. Because of this, when Adam sinned, all humanity sinned. Second is the representation view. This view states that Adam's sin was passed to all because God had appointed him as the representative for all humanity. Dr. Lloyd-Jones states that his view of Scripture shows a mixture of these two views. He looks at the parallel between Adam and Christ. He shows how both Adam and Christ were appointed by God and represented all humanity. Adam represented all in his sin and Jesus represented all in His obedience. Dr. Lloyd-Jones ends his sermon by pointing out the important truth that Jesus is the last Adam. There will be no one to come after Him who will again represent all of humanity. Christians can rejoice in that fact, knowing that they can forever rest in the work of Jesus Christ.

Romans 5:12-21 — The Bible tells that all humans are guilty of sin. In this sermon on Romans 5:12–21 “For All Sinned”, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones dives deeper into this truth to discover the magnitude of what this actually means. He begins by showing through Scripture that sin goes all the way back to the first sin of Adam. Death, the punishment of sin, was passed to all generations through the first act of sin by Adam. He points out how this means sin and its consequences were evident even before the law was given. Adam's sin was imputed to all humanity from the very beginning, causing all to be guilty of sin. However, Dr. Lloyd-Jones does not stop there and instead goes on to show the parallel between the relationship with Adam and the relationship with Jesus. The same way that Adam imputed sin to humanity through his actions, Jesus likewise imputed His righteousness to them. Just as one offense brought death to all humanity, so also Jesus's one act of obedience put all offenses aside in forgiveness. He concludes by showing the beauty of the justification Jesus brought in light of this parallel.

Romans 5:12-21 — Sin destroys everything. It ruins relationships, perverts what is pure, and undoes the underpinnings of society. In this passage, the apostle Paul explains the effect of sin on the world and the salvation that Christ has brought from sin. Because of Adam's sin in the Garden of Eden, all have sinned because all are descendants of Adam. That guilt and condemnation is on all people. However, just as all are related to Adam, all who are saved are related to Jesus Christ! In the sermon on Romans 5:12–21, “As in Adam, So in Christ,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones argues that Romans 5:12 is one of the most important verses in the whole Bible in terms of theology. This verse confronts with two facts: the universality of sin and the universality of death. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains the biblical and non-biblical view of this passage. It would be easy to create excuses for sin or to become angry that all are guilty because Adam is guilty, but the passage clearly points out that sin is active and so now there is death by sin. Instead of condemning the sin that Adam passed on, the Christian should be rejoicing that Christ's work on the cross has also passed on.

Romans 5:12 — How can one be sure of the meaning of Scripture? In this sermon from Romans 5:12 “The Mechanics of Interpretation”, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones begins this message by giving a few tips on how to read and study the Bible. Since Paul began this verse with the word “therefore,” Dr. Lloyd-Jones draws attention back to the previous messages and shows how Paul is going to tie things together. In the chapters leading up to this passage, Paul emphasized that all fall under the wrath of God because all have sinned. Why is this? It is because all are united as one in Adam. Because of what happened in the Garden of Eden, all are guilty of sin and born into sin. In the same exact manner, because of Christ's sacrifice on the cross, Christians are not only saved by Christ but also saved in Christ. There have been two great heads to the human race: Adam and Jesus Christ. In Adam, all sinned, and in Christ, all can be saved. Christians should be so thankful that they have not only been saved from the impending wrath but are also engrafted into Christ's body. While they were once enemies, they are now safe and secure in Christ.

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.

Romans 5:10 — Unconfessed sin will make a Christian doubt their salvation and security in Jesus Christ. It is most important in times like this that they look to Scripture for the promises of God. Paul explains in this sermon on Romans 5:10 that God's children are eternally safe and secure in Christ Jesus because of the work that He did on the cross. In the sermon titled “Security in Christ,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones discusses this assurance by focusing on this one verse in Romans. First, God sacrificed His Son on the cross to be the propitiation for sin. That act removed the enmity between God and saved humanity who were previously enemies with God. God chose not to impute their trespasses on them. Instead, He imputed the trespasses on Himself and imputed to His people His righteousness. If God did such an act as this to show His love, how much more would He continue that good work in His people? This new relationship with Christ means that His people are grafted into Christ and nothing can change that status.

Romans 5:9-10 — Paul states that the greatest proof of the love of God is His plan of salvation. The one assurance beyond that is the direct witness of the Holy Spirit Himself. The Holy Spirit bears witness that Christians are indeed children of God. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones notes in this sermon on Romans 5:9-10 that after Paul discusses being justified by God, he uses the phrase “how much more then.” Christ has already died, which meant that His people no longer have to face God's wrath. Also much more, Christ gave the gift of the Holy Spirit as well. Dr. Lloyd- Jones then discusses justification and how the cross procures this justification on the Christian's behalf. It is not human works, faith, or self- sanctification that justifies; it is purely the work of Christ on the cross. This act guarantees final salvation, when Christ comes to receive His church and His people are with Him in glory for eternity.

Romans 5:6-11 — God's love for His children is a main theme throughout the Bible. But, how can we be sure of His love? In this sermon on Romans 5:6-11, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones points out several truths which clearly prove God's love for us. He begins by pointing out that God is the One who gave us our salvation. Not only that, but He sent His one and only Son to come and die on a cross so that we might have salvation. Dr. Lloyd-Jones goes on to point out the truth that we were not given salvation because we had earned it or worked for it. In fact, when Jesus died for us, we were ungodly and enemies of God. We were sinners who had broken the Law and were deserving of eternal death. However, God, in His abundant grace and mercy, saved us while we were still sinners. He sought us even when we were His enemies and called us His own. Dr. Lloyd-Jones encourages us to find joy in this proof of God's love in saving us, despite our sinful nature. He encourages us to never forget the amazing gift of salvation that the Lord has so graciously given us, and to find assurance in this proof of His love.

Romans 5:6-8 — It is the kindness of God that leads His people to salvation. That kindness and love of God is evident throughout the book of Romans as Dr. Lloyd-Jones continues proclaiming its truth in this sermon on Romans 5:6-8. Christ's love ensures the finality of salvation. It is easy to point out that most people do not truly understand the riches they have in salvation because of Christ's love since all are sinful people. In the sermon “Love That Produces Salvation,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones breaks down Romans 5:6–8 and shares just how much Christians have received because of Christ's love for His people. The first realization of this love is that Christ Himself produced and created salvation before the foundation of the earth was made. A second realization is that Christ not only came to the earth, but He also chose to die and bear God's wrath in humanity's place. Finally, the listener needs to consider the type of people that benefit from that salvation. These people are not wonderful, good-natured people; they are full of sin and completely undeserving. They are weak and incapable of doing anything that would warrant salvation, and this alone proves that the Lord loved His own enough to save them Himself.

Romans 5:5 — Once saved, always saved. But what happens when one doubts their salvation and how do they regain assurance? The greatest assurance of all is that the love of God has been spread into the hearts of His people. This act is done by the work of the Holy Spirit. In the sermon “The Holy Spirit and Assurance” from Romans 5:5, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones points out that this is the first time the Holy Spirit is referenced in terms of salvation and he makes a few points concerning what this means. The Holy Spirit is given to all Christians without exception and He dwells in their bodies. Some might ask how this is a guarantee of salvation. Dr. Lloyd-Jones reminds that any good work that Christ has begun will not go unfinished. The seal of the Holy Spirit is a guarantee that Christians are finally fit to enter the glory He has prepared for them. The second part of the sermon explains how someone would know that the Holy Spirit has been given to them.

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.

Romans 5:3-5 — The Bible tells that Christians will face trials. In light of this truth, how should Christians face them and stand strong in the midst of trials? Listen to this sermon titled “Times of Trial” on Romans 5:3–5 as Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones speaks on this topic and points to how Scripture instructs to face them. First, he begins by expressing that trials are a test of our faith; it shows if the faith is true or if it is based only on emotional experience. He goes on to state that Christians with true faith will not face trials with grumblings or with a mindset of simply putting up with it. Rather, they will glory in their tribulations. When a trial is faced this way, it can become a time of growth and can strengthen one's relationship with God. They can push one toward Him and help them see their need of Him. Trials can also build in patience and can be a time where God refines and teaches things out of His love for His chosen. He concludes this sermon on trials by showing that trials also point to the hope that Christians have and that helps them stand strong in the midst of any storm.

Romans 5:1-2 — The apostle Paul saw the glory of God when he was on his way to persecute Christ's church. In this sermon titled “Glory Begun Below,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches this powerful sermon from Romans 5:1–2 which shows that it is the risen Christ who appeared to Paul and changed him from a Pharisee persecuting the church to a follower of Christ. When anyone sees the glory of God, they are transformed and made new, just as the apostle Paul. How does one see this glory? While today's Christians do not have experiences as the apostles did, God still shows His glory in this life through many of His everyday graces. The glory of God is encountered while experiencing the grace of God at regeneration. But ultimately, the glory of God will be seen on the last day when the Christian's salvation is brought to completion. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones is emphatic that salvation is a process that ends when the Christian is made like Christ, purged of all sin and made pure by His glory. The question that all must all ask is this: “have we experienced this glory?” If the listener has not, this sermon brings the most important message for this life.

Romans 5:1-2 — What does it mean to stand in the grace of God? The apostle Paul writes that all who believe are no longer under the power of sin and death, but are now in God's grace. In this sermon on Romans 5:1–2 titled “Standing in Grace,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones expounds on this great declaration. He says that to be in God's grace is to be justified before God. It is to be in the family of God. All whom God saves, He secures and grants perseverance. This is the blessing of justification, peace, and security with God through Christ. And through the Holy Spirit the Christian is sanctified. All of this is a result of the Christian being justified by faith. All believers ought to strive to have a full assurance that they have been redeemed in Christ and are now indwelt by the Holy Spirit. The Christian now boldly approaches God because they are His children and heirs. They do not live in fear of punishment, for they are wholly in Christ Jesus. This sermon on the glories of salvation causes all to ask the question: “do I believe? Have I been transferred out of the kingdom of darkness into the family of God?”

Romans 5:1-2 — Chapter by chapter, Paul's letter to the Romans has explained that all humanity is under God's judgement and have hope through justification by faith, and now he is explaining that all can have peace with God. Christians were previously enemies of God but now they can have assurance and a resting faith in their salvation through Jesus Christ. In this sermon from Romans 5:1–2, titled “Having Peace with God,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones outlines how Christians know if they have this assurance and peace with God: their mind will be content with the process of justification by faith, they know that Christ loves them despite being sinners, they can answer the accusations of conscience and the devil, and they no longer fear death or judgement. If they were to fail or falter at any of these tests, then they may not have a true peace with God. Sometimes sin makes one question or doubt their justification, but regardless, their salvation is still true. Dr. Lloyd-Jones reminds that justification is one declarative act forever and faith always can fight this doubt victoriously. Dr. Lloyd-Jones also explains what the results of justification by faith look like in their lives as well as discussing what a false sense of peace with God is.

Romans 5:1-2 — What is “peace with God” and how does one attain it? In the sermon titled “Certainty of Salvation,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones discusses this as he preaches on Romans 5:1–2. Paul has just finished explaining that righteousness by faith was not only imputed for Abraham, but also for all Christians. The apostle shows the absolute finality and fullness of salvation which comes as a result of faith. The greatest proof of final salvation and assurance is union with Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains three things done by justification by faith: it puts the Christian at peace with God, sets them firmly in a place of all blessings, and enables them to exalt the prospect of future glorification. Before one is even able to obtain blessings or think about future glorification, they need to have access to the Lord. Salvation and all its blessings are only attained through the Lord Jesus Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones defines and explains what peace with God is and how Paul will continue on with this theme in the coming verses.

Romans 4:18 — How does faith impact one's entire life? In the sermon “The Nature of Faith” on Romans 4:18, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones outlines five ways that Abraham's faith affected his whole world, not just his justification. It is important to note that faith is much different from merely belief. Faith is an unwavering, concrete certainty. Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not yet seen. Because of Abraham's strong faith, it allowed him to truly believe God's promises for him and his life. It enabled him to rest on God's word alone without any other evidence. His faith also helped him believe the promises of God even though they seemed completely impossible. Lastly, his faith enabled him to act upon the promises that the Lord set before him. Dr. Lloyd-Jones also outlines how Abraham's faith enabled him in these five ways. When one examines their own life, it can be easy to trade faith for merely belief. True faith faces the facts and makes a person strong, never staggering at the Lord's promises. May the listener hear this sermon and be encouraged to have faith like Abraham.

Romans 4:13-17 — What is the difference between the promise of God and the law of God? In the sermon “Salvation Guaranteed by Grace,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones expounds on the teaching of the apostle Paul in Romans 4:13–17. Here is the promise that Christ's salvation given by God to Abraham and his descendants is a gift of grace. The law, on the other hand, says, “Do this and live!” These are two different things that are both explained in Jesus Christ. He died and fulfilled the law wholly, and it is by grace that all who believe become inheritors of His salvation. Does this mean that the law is evil? Paul gives an emphatic no to this question. The law's purpose was to point toward a gift of salvation, not provide salvation. What does the law and the promise have to do with today's Christian? This is not an abstract theological question but it concerns the central question of salvation. It asks all to examine themselves to find out if they are truly resting in the promise of Jesus Christ or in themselves. This sermon on salvation by grace calls all to believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ as the only means of salvation.

Romans 4:9-16 — Was Abraham, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, justified by works? Paul says no; he was justified by faith alone. Just as a teacher lectures and then makes time for possible questions, Paul presents his case on the true gospel and a message on salvation and then answers potential questions that might arise. The Jews may have suggested that since Abraham was not justified by works, it was because he was circumcised. Paul again says no. Abraham was the father to all, both circumcised and uncircumcised, because Scripture shows that he was justified before he was circumcised. In the sermon “Faith Alone” on Romans 4:9–16, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones shows that Paul warns against those who merely held to their own circumcision as a means of salvation. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains how the Jews had not properly understood why the Lord gave them the sign of circumcision and how Paul refutes their wrong beliefs. When Abraham was credited as righteous, it is the first time in Scripture that salvation by faith alone was defined. The Lord promised that because of Abraham's faithfulness, his seed would produce the Son of God.

Romans 4:4-8 — Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones asks, “Who is the man who can be justified?” He answers that it is anyone that produces no works and is ungodly. In accordance with Paul's preaching throughout Romans that would be everyone. Paul says this because the act of justification is entirely a work of Christ and no work that we do could ever be part of that process. In this sermon titled “Justifying the Ungodly” from Romans 4:4–8, Dr. Lloyd-Jones also explains that because all are ungodly, justification does not make them righteous: it means that Christ has imputed His righteousness to their account. In this passage, Paul discusses both Abraham and David, both of whom were people of the Old Testament that received salvation by faith. Paul quotes David in this passage and Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that forgiveness is noted as the first step in the process of reconciliation. Christ covers sins, forgives iniquities, and does not impute the sins against the sinner. Instead, God imputed those sins on His Son Jesus, which were then taken to the cross. A Christian realizes that they play no part in this process and salvation is purely God's work on the cross.

Romans 4:1-3 — The overwhelming message of Romans is that the righteous will live by faith. In the sermon “Abraham Justified By Faith” from Romans 4:1–3, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones believes that this is for the sake of the Jews who may not understand their Old Testament and are now rejecting this “new” message. There is only one covenant of grace and it was the same in the Old Testament as it was in the New. God's way of dealing with humanity has always been the same. In this sermon, Dr. Lloyd-Jones also discusses how Abraham and David were justified in the Old Testament dispensation. By what was Abraham justified? By faith, as the Scripture states that Abraham believed and it was counted to him as righteousness. This is the first time in the Bible that the doctrine of justification by faith has been presented this clearly. When Abraham believed, it meant that he trusted and committed to what God said and this was established as a covenant. Dr. Lloyd-Jones warns that even though Paul continues to review the same points, the Christian must never skip over a Scripture that seems less applicable and appealing. This chapter provides a great explanation for justification by faith and it is essential to grasp and understand these arguments.

Romans 3:31 — The law of God condemns but the grace of God saves. So what room is there to boast? There are three deductions that Paul is drawing with his description of salvation: there can no longer be any boasting, the gospel is for all people without distinction, and the gospel establishes the law. Some Jews may feel that with this new message about receiving salvation through faith means that their law is void, but Paul says that is unthinkable. This salvation is a justification whereby God has declared His people as righteous in His sight. In this sermon titled “The Law Established” from Romans 3:31, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says that Paul is repeating what the Lord said in the Sermon on the Mount. The Lord honored the law in His active obedience and nothing that He would do would prove the law void. Dr. Lloyd-Jones provides seven points of how the cross and salvation honors the law and discusses reasons why people would reject this teaching.

Romans 3:29-31 — There are groups of people from different religions who join to worship together, claiming that they all worship the same God. But Paul states emphatically that there is indeed only one God and that there is only one way to receive salvation. Those who have different religions and different means to God are completely wrong. When the Jews claim that they are God's chosen people, Paul refutes this by saying that the Lord Jesus is a God for all. The people who will receive salvation are those that believe in Christ, no matter if they are Jew and Gentile. There is now equal opportunity because Christ has broken down all partitions between the Jews and Gentiles. In the sermon “Distinctions Abolished” from Romans 3:29–31, Dr. Lloyd-Jones warns against those who think that they are saved because their parents are saved, or that the gospel is only for a select few, or that all religions worship the same God. All will be held accountable to the one true and living God.

Romans 3:27-31 — Merely knowing the truth will not save anyone. The Jews are a vivid example of this desperate condition as they often they prided themselves as God's chosen people and thus did not need Paul's teachings. However, Paul shows that boasting in works or heritage will do nothing in terms of one's salvation. Salvation is open to all people, yet there is nothing that one actually does that merits salvation; it is truly only by the work of the Lord. It may seem that Paul has been repeating the same statements several times in the previous chapters of this epistle, and Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones adds that this is because the message is crucial and because of sin, the truth does not always appear right away to those who are listening. In this sermon on Romans 3:27–31 titled “Boasting Excluded,” Dr. Lloyd-Jones also shows that all are guilty of boasting. Sometimes a Christian may say that their faith or works are the reason they receive salvation, but that is wrong. One's faith is merely the instrument by which they receive salvation, and their works are merely the outward expression of the work of the Lord. The Christian should be very mindful that their faith is not only intellectual or a belief; it must be a true element of trust and commitment in their lives.

Romans 3:25-26 — Perhaps no other theme is preached more often in evangelical churches than the cross of Christ. Evangelical Christians regularly sing songs and hymns of God's love and specifically of the forgiveness found only at Calvary. What could be wrong with this? In this sermon from Romans 3:25–26 titled “The Vindication of God,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones expounds on the cross of Christ in great detail. Dr. Lloyd-Jones addresses that it is not so much what is said about the cross of Christ, but what is often neglected. Evangelical Christians must never neglect the full doctrine of the atonement. They must not forget that the cross of Christ not only displays the love of God but also the justice of God. The atonement of Christ is where God indicates His holy name. At Calvary, the wrath of God is poured out against sin and the righteousness of God is vindicated. Listen to this sermon on vindication by Dr. Lloyd-Jones on an often neglected attribute of God and see how God's character is much more than love; He is also just and righteous.

Romans 3:25 — The Old Testament proclaims the need for a savior. Even the Jews knew to look for a messiah. By saying “in his blood,” Paul is alluding to the Old Testament practice of animal sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. Prior to Christ's sacrifice, believers would have to sacrifice a clean animal in order for their sins to be blotted out. The blood of the animal is what deemed their sins forgiven, meaning that the death of the animal was necessary. The term “blood” is used to bring this teaching in line with the whole teaching of the Old Testament. In this sermon about “The Blood of Jesus Christ” from Romans 3:25, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones reminds that any interpretation of the New Testament should never contradict the teaching of the Old Testament. In contrast, Paul is now saying that blood means life rather than death. Since the Jews only thought of life in regards to a body, Christ's sacrifice now shows that the blood He poured out means life. The Jews had to find an animal to be their substitute, but now God Himself has made Christ the substitute once and for all. In this sermon, Dr. Lloyd-Jones encourages rejoicing in the blood of Christ because He has paid the ransom.

Romans 3:25 — Jesus saves sinners, but how are they redeemed in Christ and why did it have to happen in that way? In Romans 3:25, Paul says that God was a “propitiation” for our sins in order to declare His righteousness to the sinner. In the sermon titled “Propitiation,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains that this word means to appease and avert anger or wrath. The cross of Jesus Christ was needed to appease God's wrath. Propitiation implies four things: an offense to be taken away, an offended person who needs to be pacified, a guilty person, and a sacrifice of atonement for the offense. Also in this message, Dr. Lloyd-Jones warns about various translations of the Bible. Many who have translated this specific passage have misplaced the word “propitiation” with “expiation,” giving the verse a completely different context. This happens because personal prejudices can sway the translations. In either case, it is to be clear that without propitiation, the Lord cannot have a personal relationship with a person when there is sin present. This is the reason that Christ had to be the ultimate sacrifice to pay the atonement for sins.

Romans 3:24 — Just as a prisoner needs to pay a price to obtain freedom, sinners also need to pay a ransom for freedom. However, the Lord in His kindness has paid the price and given freedom to the Christian. In this sermon titled “By Free Grace Alone,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches from Romans 3:24 and breaks the verse into three parts: the reminder of what salvation really is, how salvation becomes the Christian's, and how it is possible for God to do this for His people. In this verse, Paul explains free justification by the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Because of that work, the Christian has been declared righteous. This does not mean that they are currently righteous, but that the Lord has deemed them so. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that the present tense of the word “justifying” means that Christians are currently being justified. The listener is reminded that this salvation is a free gift to all, both Jew and Gentile. While the law reveals sin, God's grace gives a free pardon. This is only possible because of Christ's sacrifice on the cross. The term used here is the same term as a prisoner being set free and Christ has set His people free from the slavery of sin.

Romans 3:21-31 — How can the righteousness of God become ours? Is it given to believers through works or by faith? In this sermon on Romans 3:21-31 titled “More than Forgiveness,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains that the righteousness of God is not obtained by works of the law or merely an acceptance in the mind of truth. Righteousness is given when there is a true trust in Christ's work in salvation. This trust results not only in forgiveness of sins but by the believer being clothed in the very righteousness of God. It is important to understand that forgiveness of sins by itself is not enough for salvation. This belief misconstrues the holy and just nature of God that requires satisfaction of the law's demands. Therefore, the believer must have a righteousness that satisfies God and so the clothing of the believer in righteousness not his own is essential. May this truth move our hearts to rejoice in this great act of God done on our behalf through Christ's work.

Romans 3:21-31 — When God interrupts human history, everything changes. Up until this point in Romans, Paul has emphasized wrath and judgement for all since all are guilty of sin and under condemnation. The tone of this letter completely changes in this section with these two small words: “but now.” In this sermon on Romans 3:21-31 titled, “The Turning Point: But Now,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones breaks up the text into two main sections, outlining that Paul has finally begun to discuss the way of salvation and the characteristics of the way of salvation. After much talk of wrath and destruction, it seems like a relief to see that the Lord has provided a righteousness and revealed it. This righteousness is by nothing that anyone has done because it is received only through faith. Both Jews and Gentiles can rejoice because this gift was planned before the foundation of the world, entirely by God's grace, and open to all. Dr. Lloyd-Jones points out that everything about salvation points to the glory of God. Any idea that humanity has concerning salvation should always conform to this one passage of Scripture and nothing about salvation should deny any of these statements.

Romans 3:20 — Imagine that a person was on trial for a crime that they had committed. The odds are all stacked against them and they were pronounced guilty. The law rightly condemns them as guilty. However, when the judge is set to announce the punishment, the judge says that they are free. This is how Paul explains justification. It is a legal term and a declaration that Christ no longer condemns the sinner and now regards them as righteous. In this sermon from Romans 3:20 titled “Justification Explained,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains that it is not that Christians are righteous; it is a removal of sin and a pronouncement from the Lord that He considers them righteous. Paul understands that the Jews had fallen into a trap, thinking that they were able to be justified by the law that they were given. However, God gave the law to show how truly sinful everyone is and how they are in need of a Savior. Dr. Lloyd-Jones further illustrates how the word justification is used throughout Scripture and how the Roman Catholics defined the word. He makes interesting points of how the modern day Christian generally does not understand the definition of many key words used throughout Scripture. Dr. Lloyd-Jones also examines the difference between justification and sanctification.

Romans 3:18-20 — Why does one sin? What drives them to chase after everything that dishonors God? The underlying answer is quoted from Psalm 36 in this Romans passage: “There is no fear of God before their eyes” (Romans 3:18). In this sermon from Romans 3:18–20 titled “The Fear of the Lord,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains fear as reverential awe, a desire to worship God, an understanding that God is the judge of all the earth, and a fear of punishment. The unsaved do not fear the eternal punishment of the holy God. In this passage, Paul also points out that the very law in which the Jews boast has also condemned them. All guilty under sin. Paul has stressed this repeatedly in recent passages and Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that it is because every mouth needs to be stopped. Scripture shows the standard that all must live up to and that standard shows how humans are truly vile. That alone should silence all arguing and excuses. Dr. Lloyd-Jones asks the listener to examine the heart and mouth and ask if they are still doubting or arguing against the almighty God or has their mouth been stopped by His righteousness and grace? Thanks be to God who by His Son saves from 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.

Romans 3:9-20 — Is there anyone without sin? What characterizes human nature apart from God? Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones outlines Romans 3:9¬-20 as Paul explains human characteristics when they are apart from God. First, there is none righteous apart from God, as He is the only way to salvation. No one fully understands spiritual truth or divine things because their mind has only a secular nature. They lack much understanding when it comes to sin, the wrath of God, true happiness, and their own eternal understanding. Humanity is so lost in its understanding that it naturally strays from God. Dr. Lloyd-Jones illustrates how these natural inclinations are manifested in human behavior, where sin starts in the heart and then to progresses to mouths and feet. While human instinct is to run from God, Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows the absolute necessity of God's way of salvation.

Romans 3:3 — If God forgives sin, then why stop? That is the question asked of the preacher since Paul wrote the book of Romans. In the sermon from Romans 3:3 titled “The Faith of God Without Effect?”, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones outlines three arguments that explain how critical repentance is to true saving faith and how that faith leads believers away from a life of entrenched sin. Dr. Lloyd-Jones, preaching about the faithfulness of God, asks: “Did Israel's unfaithfulness do away with all of the value they had because they had the oracles of God? If the failure of the Jews makes God look more glorious, then why does God punish them? If our sin makes God's grace and mercy that much greater, then would it not make sense to sin even more?” As Dr. Lloyd-Jones answers these critical arguments, he also reminds the listener that when they test a view of the Lord and His word, they should ask if that view glorifies God. If the answer causes one to question or doubt God in all His faithfulness, righteousness and power, then the view is wrong.

Romans 3:1-2 — Is there any advantage to being a Jew? The apostle Paul understands this questioning might come up after all he has said about their guilt. However, his point was to prove that the whole world was condemned by sin before God. In this sermon from Romans 3:1–2 titled “Stewards of the Mysteries,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains Paul's words that showed that Jews do have one advantage: they were given the divine oracles of God. They were entrusted with the living revelation of God's word and were tasked with keeping it safe and spreading the truth to others. Dr. Lloyd-Jones argues that there is no higher privilege for any human than to be spoken to directly by God. God spoke to Moses by giving him the Ten Commandments and Moses brought them to God's chosen people, the Jews. To have this kind of knowledge should lead to repentance and to seek salvation from God. In the same manner, does the Christian understand what kind of advantage it is for them to have an open Bible? They have the living Word of God in front of them and are entrusted to keep the truth and share it with others.

Romans 2:17-24 — There is no difference between the Jews and Gentiles. No one is saved based on heritage or works. But with this sermon on Romans 2:17-24 about wrath and condemnation, the Jews were hypocritically stirring up excuses of why they were not subject to the judgement Paul was preaching. Paul carefully eliminated any excuse and showed how no one is righteous and all will be subject to wrath. Preaching on hypocrisy, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones exposes the conduct of a hypocrite: complacent, never examining themselves, preaching to others but not themselves, and criticizing others but not themselves. It is not enough to hear God's word; one must also apply the truth and be humbled by it. This will produce an inward change. In the second half of the message, Dr. Lloyd-Jones discusses the Jews' last resort excuse of circumcision. Paul carefully outlined that those who rely on this outward sign are missing the point that God only cares about the inward sign of true change and repentance. Circumcision is pointless unless it also comes with a changed heart. Let the Christian not rely on nationality, outward signs, or misguided truths but always be in humble adoration of a Lord that provided a way for salvation from wrath.

Romans 2:13-15 — There are a few people in the Old Testament that were considered righteous but had never heard the gospel. How can this be? In the sermon titled “None Righteous,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains Romans 2:13–15 where Paul is careful to point out that they were not considered justified by the law, since no one can keep the law, but that they were a kind of people who knew the commandments of God and followed ordinances given by God. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that these individuals understood that the ordinances given by God were the only way to approach the Lord and have their sins forgiven. They were not “good” pagans or “noble” philosophers, nor were they like so many who were not only hearers of the word. These Old Testament saints were doers of the word, whose faith was not in the law but in the Giver of the law. Philosophies, knowledge, and good works do nothing in the eyes of Christ if He is not truly known. Paul elaborates this in the second section of the passage by openly expressing how many Jews were guilty of hypocrisy. All are condemned and subject to God's wrath, even the Jews who were given the law of the Lord. The Jews who relied on their possession of the law for salvation were severely misguided.

Romans 2:13-15 — Do unsaved people know God's law? Is it fair to judge Gentiles based on a law the Jews received but they did not? Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains how Paul anticipates that question and shows the universal guilt of all men for disobeying God's commandments. He explains that God has “written the law in their hearts” ¬– the conscience – and even so, all people can be judged according to their moral consciousness. The conscience is an individual's sense of right and wrong, mostly telling us when something is wrong and condemning us for doing wrong things. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that even though Paul is answering potential questions on salvation, he is not explicitly talking about salvation in this passage. He is, however, talking about those who are under wrath and condemnation. Paul is also very explicit that no one can be justified by living up to the law or by living up to the conscience of their heart because no one can live up to either standard.

Romans 2:11-16 — When the day of judgement comes, will the Jews have preferred treatment since they are God's chosen people? In this sermon titled “The Judgment Throne of Christ” from Romans 2:11–16, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones proclaims that no one will have any possible argument or excuse concerning the day of wrath. God is always just and His judgement is always according to truth. Dr. Lloyd-Jones unfolds this passage, pointing out that Paul has divided humankind into two groups: those who are under the law and those who are without the law. These two groups are the Jews and the Gentiles, respectively. Paul points out that Jews, who were given the law, will be judged by the law. This will be a higher and more severe standard of judgement since having the law means they had more opportunity. This shows how God is impartial and His judgement is fair. In the same manner, those who have heard the gospel and have been able to grow in grace and maturity in the Lord have greater responsibility today.

Romans 2:6-10 — Can good works save? Will one receive salvation just for being a ‘good' person? In the sermon titled “…To…Man that Worketh Good,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones walks through these questions in Romans 2:6–10, a passage often taken out of context. While works are the proof of salvation, they are not the source of it. Paul proves that people cannot be justified by works alone and no matter the efforts of all of humanity, no one is righteous or exempt from judgement. In this message, Dr. Lloyd-Jones states that the day of condemnation will bring judgement upon those who relied on their efforts to impress God; those that say they know the Lord but do not keep His commands are liars. If one is truly a believer, they have the Holy Spirit who will act in them and change them, and that change will be manifested with outward expression. Christians should always aim to bring glory to God, seek His honor, and yearn for eternal life with Him. This should cause Christians to be mindful that what comes out of their mouths also is represented in the works that they do.