Podcast appearances and mentions of martin lloyd jones

Dr Martin Lloyd-Jones said: “A great danger confronting us in this present time is that people keep talking about Christianity instead of talking about Jesus. We start with ourselves, we start with our problems our difficulties, we start with the world as it is, and we end with that. People are merely interested in the application of Christianity not the Christ of Christianity.”  The people wanted to make Jesus king because they saw the miracles and not the kingdom of God and in our worship we can fall into the trap of the what taking precedence over who that is Jesus Christ the centre of our worship.

John 5:1-6 After these things, there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now, there is in Jerusalem by the sheep gate, a pool, which is called in Hebrew, Bethesda, having five porticoes. In these lay a multitude of those who were sick, blind, lame, and withered, [waiting for the moving of the waters; for an angel of the Lord went down at certain seasons into the pool and stirred up the water; whoever then first, after the stirring up of the water, stepped in was made well from whatever disease with which he was afflicted.] A man was there who had been ill for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he had already been a long time in that condition, He said to him, "Do you wish to get well?" This seems like a strange question to ask someone who has been afflicted for 38 years, if he wishes to get well. However, there are some significant issues at stake. He has probably made his living by begging, if he is healed, then his means of income will change. He will have to find a job and go to work. If before he was afflicted he had no marketable skills, then if healed, he will have to start at the bottom and work his way up. It is possible that he might have to take a cut in his income if healed. Furthermore, he would have to break into an entirely new social circle. That wouldn't be comfortable or easy. So perhaps the question is relevant after all. In Hebrew, Bethesda, means "house of mercy." Jesus is going to perform an incredible act of mercy for this man. Jesus knew he had been there a long time. He probably had seen him several times before, when He had been in Jerusalem for other feasts. We may assume that Jesus was led by the Father to walk through the Bethesda porticos. Why did He pick this man? He knew the man had been there a long time. John tells us it was because of mercy. D. Martin Lloyd-Jones differentiated grace from mercy. "Grace is especially associated with men in their sins; mercy is especially associated with men in their misery. While grace looks down upon sin as a whole, mercy looks, especially, upon the miserable consequences of sin. Mercy really means a sense of pity, plus a desire to relieve the suffering. That is the essential meaning of being merciful; it is pity plus action." Here's a helpful definition of pity: sympathetic or kindly sorrow evoked by the suffering, distress, or misfortune of another leading one to give relief or aid or to show mercy. As we live to love with Jesus, there will be times when we see the suffering of people and will be led to give relief or aid. Perhaps today, someone like that will cross our paths. Let's not be surprised if Jesus brings them to our attention, and may we not be afraid to engage them in conversation. One of the best ways to engage them is with questions so we can learn how we may express the love and mercy of Christ. I invite you to become a partner in our ministry. Would you pray about becoming a regular supporter of Elijah Ministries and the Live to Love with Jesus ministry? I hope you will receive the joy and benefit of "giving it forward," so others may receive encouragement to turn their hearts to God and to live to love with Jesus. You may give online or send a check to the address listed at www.spiritofelijah.com/donate.

Ephesians 6:18 — Who can talk to God? Who can boldly enter His presence and communicate with Him in prayer? In this sermon on praying in the Spirit from Ephesians 6:18, Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones guides the listener through this careful study of how Christians are to pray. The blood of Jesus, His death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ gives His people unhindered access to the Father. But that open access to God in prayer is not an invitation to be casual, flippant, or fill prayers with meaningless repetition. Christians need the Holy Spirit's guidance to teach them how to pray. The spiritual battles of life, the weakness of the flesh, and the need for intercession requires careful attention to one's communication with their king. Prayer that glorifies God and maximizes the spiritual life is prayer that is filled with reverence and respect for the Father who loves and is always ready to hear the voice of His children.

Ephesians 6:18 — Who can talk to God? Who can boldly enter His presence and communicate with Him in prayer? In this sermon on praying in the Spirit from Ephesians 6:18, Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones guides the listener through this careful study of how Christians are to pray. The blood of Jesus, His death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ gives His people unhindered access to the Father. But that open access to God in prayer is not an invitation to be casual, flippant, or fill prayers with meaningless repetition. Christians need the Holy Spirit's guidance to teach them how to pray. The spiritual battles of life, the weakness of the flesh, and the need for intercession requires careful attention to one's communication with their king. Prayer that glorifies God and maximizes the spiritual life is prayer that is filled with reverence and respect for the Father who loves and is always ready to hear the voice of His children.

Ephesians 6:18 — Who can talk to God? Who can boldly enter His presence and communicate with Him in prayer? In this sermon on praying in the Spirit from Ephesians 6:18, Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones guides the listener through this careful study of how Christians are to pray. The blood of Jesus, His death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ gives His people unhindered access to the Father. But that open access to God in prayer is not an invitation to be casual, flippant, or fill prayers with meaningless repetition. Christians need the Holy Spirit's guidance to teach them how to pray. The spiritual battles of life, the weakness of the flesh, and the need for intercession requires careful attention to one's communication with their king. Prayer that glorifies God and maximizes the spiritual life is prayer that is filled with reverence and respect for the Father who loves and is always ready to hear the voice of His children.

Ephesians 6:18 — Who can talk to God? Who can boldly enter His presence and communicate with Him in prayer? In this sermon on praying in the Spirit from Ephesians 6:18, Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones guides the listener through this careful study of how Christians are to pray. The blood of Jesus, His death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ gives His people unhindered access to the Father. But that open access to God in prayer is not an invitation to be casual, flippant, or fill prayers with meaningless repetition. Christians need the Holy Spirit's guidance to teach them how to pray. The spiritual battles of life, the weakness of the flesh, and the need for intercession requires careful attention to one's communication with their king. Prayer that glorifies God and maximizes the spiritual life is prayer that is filled with reverence and respect for the Father who loves and is always ready to hear the voice of His children. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29

While Dr. John Snyder was in Wales pursuing his doctorate, he and his family attended Heath Evangelical Church, where Mr. W. Vernon Higham was the pastor. Mr. Higham was also a close friend of Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones and his wife. Through the years spent at Heath Evangelical, John and his family benefited greatly from Mr. Higham's preaching, but there has been one series that John has gone back to time and again. He has also recommended it to many others. Mr. Higham preached this series on revival at the Evangelical Movement of Wales Conference. This first sermon highlights our world's need for revival and is based on Isaiah 62. As we at Media Gratiae have been blessed by these messages, we pray you will be as well. Show Notes: W. V. Higham Trust: https://www.wvhigham.org/ The Turn of the Tide by W. Vernon Higham: http://churchawakening.com/product/the-turn-the-tide/ Lectures of the Revival of Religion, by Ministers of the Church of Scotland edited by W. M. Hetherington https://www.abebooks.com/Lectures-Revival-Religion-Ministers-Church-Scotland/31027820289/bd Free ebook: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Lectures_on_the_revival_of_religion_by_ministers_o?id=T-kDAAAAQAAJ&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app

TO THIS MAN WILL I LOOK   “To this man will I look, to him who is humble and contrite of spirit and trembles at my word.” —Isaiah 66:2     The context of this statement is the building of a house for Him. God confronts the absurdity of thinking He is contained by space. Nothing can contain Him. Yet, there is nothing outside of Him. Hannah Whithall Smith once wrote, “People are always trying to enter God's presence but when I read the Bible I see that you cannot get out of it.” Part of the error of the human perspective is that God is like us. That He is here and not there or He must arrive or that He has left. Though we know that the glory of God can depart and manifest, God when understood rightly, envelops all things. He sees, hears and rules all. Tozer once wrote, “The Christian believes, ‘God is there' while the mystic believes that ‘God is here.” In other words, the truth is not merely that God exists, but that you are before Him in all that you do. Humility and the recognition of the all-present one are inseparable. Recently, the drama amongst Christian ministers is at the highest point I have ever witnessed it.  I have found the best way to communicate with each side is to keep before my eyes that the Lord is here. Present. Listening. Let us absorb and conduct ourselves from this revelation of God from God, “heaven is my throne and earth is my footstool. Where is the house you will build for me? Has my hand not made everything?” Yesterday I was on a plane returning from preaching at the Chicago HUB conference. From the plane I saw the Disney fireworks show.  A show that I have seen many times. This perspective of the show was much different.  Those massive, loud and bright bursts that squint the eye and pain the ear covering the entire sky above were as small as an app icon on my iPhone.  From this height I heard nothing and could cover the entire show with my pinky.  Maybe the height or our lives is determined by the greatness of our God.  If we think God comes and goes, is here and leaves, can be contained in our auditorium the world is loud, large and squints the eye. But if we believe He is the omnipresent one and nothing is done in the dark or behind his notice, we can raise to that altitude where the greatest displays of men are smaller than a child's hand.   After the Creator of all things declares His greatness, He then swoops down from the highest heavens to the crawling worm and whispers, “To this man will I look.” Breathtaking utterance - Yaweh has revealed to all men what it is that He searches for. John Trapp translates it, “I have an eye to thee.” Giving a romance tone like that old Flamingos tune, “I Only Have Eyes For You.” Brian Simmons comments, “There is one my eyes are drawn to…” Motyer translates it, “For this one I will look.” We have both an understanding that God notices and searches for this one.    “To this man will I look…” He will turn His countenance towards this man.  His countenance is His blessing, keeping, graciousness and peace (Numbers 6). His countenance is that shining of His face.  He lights upon this man.   What other heaven is there? God's face? The very thing God calls us to seek, “Seek my face.”  That very thing David determined to seek, “Your face Lord will I seek.” His presence and person overshadows the humble.    I want to call attention to the fact that man is thinking house and God is thinking humility.  Man thinks building and God thinks bowing. Man thinks place, God thinks person. Man says, “do?” God says “look.”  Yaweh discloses, “Humility attracts Me!” Andrew Murray defines humility as, “The sense of our entire nothingness.” A true faith that prostrates itself before all that God has revealed Himself to be.  Isaac Ambrose cautions us, “if at anytime the soul begins to feel advanced in regard to the accomplishment of duty and spiritual things let us fall down before God and humble ourselves for the pride in our hearts.” Who are the humble? Motyer says they are “those ready to take the lowest place.” For He who is little in his own eyes will not be troubled to be little in the eyes of others. The high mountains are barren but the low valleys are fruitful. Accordingly the showers of God's grace fall into lowly hearts.    Those who are humble are “contrite of spirit.” Notice that it doesn't say, “contrite” only.  Rather it says, “contrite of spirit.” Meaning, it is not a moment of contrition but a way of contrition.  It is not merely an appeal for mercy but a disposition of mercy. It is recognition of a great need for mercy.  An awareness of frailty. A friend said to me today, “I am as messed up as everyone else, I just want to be honest about it.” Dane Ortlund said, “I went from being an unaware screw up to an aware screw up.”  It is living with a ‘need for mercy' frame of mind. Motyer translates it, “crippled in spirit.” The word, astoundingly is the same word used in 2 Samuel 4:4;9:8 for Mephibosheth. Saul's disabled son. A lameness. A deep sense of the damage of sin and helplessness to please God in ourselves. Earnest Kevan wrote, “Sin so crippled man's moral powers that he cannot perform anything that is truly acceptable to God.” Another Theologian writes that it is to “recognize a radical defect that runs from top to bottom.” The natural man is like water on a hill, left to itself it quickly runs downward. Brian Simmons comments that this imparts a “tenderness” of spirit. The man who knows his personal deformity is granted Christ's beauty.   Martin Lloyd Jones wrote, “The way to become poor in spirit is to look at God.” How do we make our souls dwell in the valley of humility - in view of God look at humanity. All that you are, see your own soul, all you have and do not have. Look upon your body, remember your actions and lack of actions, see your condition, sufferings, home life, incidents with others, seldom virtues. How often you have placed self first, preferred yourself, made yourself the center, forgotten to think of others or even to consider God. Your lack of constant joy, peace, trust, patience, peace, selflessness. You do not know if you will live tomorrow or not.  “If the Lord wills you, you will do this or that.” How little time you have and that it is not yours anyway.    Those who are humble and contrite of spirit tremble at his word. From a crippling faith in God the humble live with a great value of His word. To tremble at His word means we believe it. It is important to us. His spoken words are more valuable than 10,000 gold and silver pieces. The crippled man finds His treasure to be God's word. Brian Simmons comments, “living in awe of all I say.” Motyer defines treasuring God's word as, “longing to obey it. To receive it not as the words of man but the very creative word of God.” For the word of God is not “inspired” but “expired.” The God-breathed word. It is God extending Himself to us. Thomas Watson calls the word of God, “the sundial by which we set our lives.” As Luther told us to remember, “the Scriptures did not grow on earth.”    There is a story of a young boy on a ship whose mother gave him a bible. With it she told him, “Whatever happens in your life, never let this book go.” The ship wrecked, his parents drowned and the boy was found holding only his bible.  The Captain asked him why he chose to save his bible over everything else. He said, “My mother told me, no matter what happens in life, never let this book go.” When they arrived on land, the captain took the orphaned boy to a Christian merchant that he knew. After telling the story to the merchant that captain said, “I thought he might be a Christian.” The merchant gladly received the boy and said, “He who holds on to the word in peril is a Christian indeed.”    Lady Jane Gray was made fun of by her peers for reading the Bible while they all played. Her response was, “All amusements are but a shadow of the pleasures which I enjoy reading this book.”    In summary - amidst all the trials, temptations, and thunder storms of this short life, amidst all the different opinions throughout human existence, amidst all the joys and pleasures of living, there is one kind of person that God looks for and looks at.  Upon this one and this one only does God cast the light of His favor and face. The one whose faith has brought him low, crippled his life and clings to God through His word.     

Send us a text1 Johannes 5:18-19 Ons leef egter met die wete dat elkeen wat deur God verwek is, nie aanhou sonde doen nie. God bewaar dié een wat uit Hom gebore is en die bose kry nie vatplek aan hom nie. Ons weet dat ons van God afkomstig is en dat die hele wêreld in die mag van die bose vasgevang lê Mense gedra hulle dikwels baie sleg en hulle neem nie in ag wat die impak van wat hulle sê of doen, op ander mense gaan wees nie. Hoeveel beter sou hierdie wêreld nie gewees het as hulle hulself net gedra het!Ek weet, dit is maklik om die vinger na ander te wys, maar kyk wat doen mense! Mense maak onverskillig hul motordeure in die parkeerterrein oop en veroorsaak 'n duik in jou motor. En wat van jou buurvrou wat haar nare doef-doef musiek kliphard aandraai? Sonder sulke mense sou dit 'n wonderlike wêreld gewees het! Dit sou vir ons onnodig gewees het om ons so oor al daardie mense daar buite te ontstel; as hulle hulself maar net gedra het.Ongelukkig is Christene nogal baie geneig om hul vingers na die wêreld daar buite te swaai. Dink hulle nou dat dit die ander mense se onetiese, losbandige lewenstyl, op een of ander manier sal verander en hulle hul sal genees van hul swak gedrag?Nee wat, wees realisties! Dit werk nie so nie! Dit kan inderdaad nie:1 Johannes 5:19 Ons leef egter met die wete dat elkeen wat deur God verwek is, nie aanhou sonde doen nie. God bewaar dié een wat uit Hom gebore is en die bose kry nie vatplek aan hom nie. Ons weet dat ons van God afkomstig is en dat die hele wêreld in die mag van die bose vasgevang lê.Met ander woorde, verandering kom na diegene wat ‘n persoonlike ontmoeting met Jesus self gehad het. Jy kan nie daardie mense daar buite verander deur jou oortuigings of jou sedes in hul keel af te druk nie. Jy kan net nie.Die 20ste eeuse teoloog en prediker, Martin Lloyd Jones, het dit so gestel – Dit is nie die Christelike Kerk se besigheid om die wêreld aan te spoor om Christelike waardes toe te pas nie, want dit kan nie gedoen word nie. Dit is moeilik genoeg vir die Christen, maar dit is onmoontlik vir die wêreld.Hou op om jou vinger na ander te wys. Fokus op jou eie gedrag.Dit is God se Woord. Vars … vir jou … vandag.Support the showEnjoying The Content?For the price of a cup of coffee each month, you can enable Christianityworks to reach 10,000+ people with a message about the love of Jesus!DONATE R50 MONTHLY

Segment 1: • Rejecting Hate: The media's narrative of perpetual division fosters anger and sin—don't buy into it. • Christ's Example: Jesus died for hateful people, reminding us of the gospel's power to unite. • Atheism Challenged: Ask atheists tough questions about morality, truth, and purpose to expose worldview inconsistencies. Segment 2: • Jerusalem in Danger: Prophetic events remind us to stay vigilant in understanding Scripture. • 14 Bible Study Questions: Practical tools for recognizing sound theology and identifying false teachers. • Context Matters: Analyze the author, audience, structure, and historical background to deepen your understanding of the Bible. Segment 3: • Love Your Neighbors: It's not optional—God placed you where you are to minister to those around you. • God's Design Works: Marriage, work, and education thrive when aligned with biblical principles. • Repent First: To improve relationships, start by seeing yourself as the biggest sinner in the room. Segment 4: • God Commands Unity: True Christian unity is built on doctrine, not fellowship, as Martin Lloyd-Jones emphasizes. • 6 Causes of Disunity: Weak teaching, low views of God, inclusion of false converts, and neglect of church discipline erode unity. • Cultivating Unity: Strong teaching, evangelism, and humility create the foundation for a united, God-honoring church. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!

Ever wondered how a Christmas carol could ignite a spiritual transformation? Join us as we explore compelling insights from the esteemed Bible teacher Martin Lloyd-Jones, delving into the significance of divine encounters and the eternal worthiness of Jesus beyond human perceptions. We'll reflect on the story of the woman at the well and how routine can mute the vibrant essence of Christianity. By sharing personal testimonies, we'll challenge misconceptions about Jesus' identity and celebrate His role as the everlasting King of Israel.Journey with us into the profound theological concept of Jesus as the image of the invisible God, making the intangible tangible. We unravel the unity within the Godhead, drawing from the Hebrew understanding of "echad" to illuminate the concept of the Trinity. Through the lens of scriptures like Colossians 1:15 and John 10, we address the Jewish perspective on Jesus' claims to divinity and explore His unique role in revealing God to humanity. Don't miss this enriching conversation that seeks to deepen your understanding of Jesus' divine nature and the unity of the Godhead.We are Trinity Community Church in Knoxville, Tennessee.Subscribe to our Podcast & YouTube channel to find past sermons, classes, interviews, and more!Find us on Facebook & Instagram

In this sermon by Jamal Sarikoki, the focus is on the deep and multifaceted nature of worship, extending far beyond mere musical expression in church. Sarikoki begins with personal stories, sharing his family's recent move and ongoing studies in divinity, to set the stage for understanding worship as a lifelong practice. He challenges the contemporary notion that music is the primary form of worship, emphasizing that true worship is rooted in the heart's motives and a commitment to holiness. Drawing on New Testament terms like "proscuneo" (to bow down) and "lutreo" (rendering honor), Sarikoki underscores worship as an act of submission to God's authority. He cites Romans 11:33-12:2 to show that worship involves offering our entire selves—body and soul—as a living sacrifice to God. Sarikoki calls for worship to be a daily practice, encompassing actions such as studying scriptures, speaking kindly, and helping others. He references theologian Martin Lloyd Jones and Romans chapter six to highlight that our bodies should be instruments of righteousness in worship. Acknowledging life's hardships, Sarikoki reaffirms God's worthiness of worship, urging believers to live under Christ's grace and recognize the body's role in demonstrating holiness. He concludes by reflecting on personal sacrifices made out of love, paralleling Christ's sacrifice for humanity. Sarikoki encourages listeners to embrace the Holy Spirit's conviction, surrender their struggles to God, and pattern their lives by worship, integrating faith into every aspect of daily living.

Join Pastor Tyler Lynde in exploring the profound impact of genuine, gospel-centered joy in the sermon “A Joyful Community.” Drawing from Romans 15:13, this sermon delves into how true joy, rooted in faith and the Holy Spirit, transcends the fleeting happiness often celebrated in our culture.The sermon begins with a heartfelt story about Pastor Tyler's son, Benjamin, whose selfless actions during Christmas beautifully illustrate biblical joy. Unlike the temporary excitement typically associated with receiving gifts, Benjamin's joy in giving to others highlights a deeper, more enduring joy that comes from a life anchored in faith and generosity.Pastor Tyler emphasizes that biblical joy is a consistent trait that should permeate the lives of believers, as stated in Galatians 5:22 and 1 Peter 1:8-9. This joy, a fruit of the Spirit, not only enhances our personal lives but also serves as a powerful witness to the strength and beauty of our faith. By maintaining a joyful demeanor, believers can attract others to the faith, echoing Martin Lloyd-Jones's teachings on the indispensable role of joy in Christian witness.The sermon further explores the theological concepts of justification and sanctification, which profoundly influence our understanding and experience of joy. Justification through faith in Christ offers believers lasting peace and joy by affirming their right standing with God. Sanctification, the process of becoming more like Christ, involves daily taking up this joy as we grow and face life's challenges.Through personal anecdotes and reflective prayers, Pastor Tyler invites the congregation to seek spiritual renewal and a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. This call to deepen our spiritual practices aims to ensure that joy remains a stable, visible quality in our lives, even amid trials.In concluding, “A Joyful Community” challenges listeners to not only experience this joy but to actively cultivate it within their communities. Pastor Tyler advocates for a community where joy is not an occasional guest but a permanent resident, shaping how we interact with each other and the world around us.This sermon is a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of living a life characterized by deep, abiding joy. Tune in to discover how embracing joy rooted in the gospel can transform your life and community, making each a beacon of hope and a testament to God's enduring faithfulness.We are Trinity Community Church in Knoxville, Tennessee.Subscribe to our Podcast & YouTube channel to find past sermons, classes, interviews, and more!Find us on Facebook & Instagram

Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/editorialtpv Bosquejo: https://semperreformandaperu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/03-transc-pablo-un-siervo-de-jesucristo-ro-1.1.pdf  03-Pablo, un Siervo de Jesucristo (Romanos 1:1) En esta exposición se presenta la tercera recopilación de los sermones del Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones sobre Romanos 1:1. La serie, predicada entre 1955 y 1968, es conocida por su profundidad y exhaustividad. Caballero resalta la importancia de la introducción de las epístolas paulinas, subrayando cómo Pablo se identifica como siervo y apóstol llamado por Jesucristo. Se exploran el significado y la importancia de estos términos, analizando el contexto histórico y teológico. Además, se discuten las cualificaciones de un apóstol, como el testimonio de la resurrección y el llamado directo de Cristo, y se enfatiza la relevancia contemporánea de estos conceptos. Siguenos: - Web: https://teologiaparavivir.com/ - Blog: https://semperreformandaperu.org/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teologiaparavivir/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teologiaparavivir/ - Youtube: https://www.instagram.com/teologiaparavivir/

Good morning church family. If you have your Bible I would ask you to go aheadand make your way to the book of 2 Timothy. Today we will be looking at 2Timothy 4: 1-5. My name is Mikey, I am a member here at GCF and have been fora few years now. My wife Brooke, and our 5 children love this church, and Ialways count it as an honor when I have the opportunity to preach.Pastor Ken did a great job last week as we worked our way through the closing ofchapter 3. And one passage that we looked at in particular was chapter 3 vs. 16-17.There was a family that joined about 3 weeks ago, and as they stood up on thestage and were sharing their faith and what they believe, brother said, we believein the sufficiency of scripture. I was in the back, I said amen! And that is reallywhat this passage gets to. All Scripture, not some scripture is from God.[2Ti 3:16-17 ESV] 16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable forteaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 thatthe man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.We rightly believe that when we armed with the word of God we haveEVERYTHING we need for God to accomplish everything he wills to do in ourlives. We really don't need anything else.The word of God is the center piece of Church. And is delivered by the man ofGod, the preacher. There is no greater calling, there is no more importantassignment, there is no greater need.2One of my heros of the faith is Dr. Martin Lloyd Jones said it this way in his book“Preachers and Preaching”, “The primary task of the church and of the Christianminister is the preaching of the word of God”.As Paul is writing this, We know he is nearing the end of his time here on earth.In fact this is likely the last writing that we have. And as I studied this passage thisweek, I gave some thought to how I might handle my final hours on earth.And I pictured myself maybe in a room, surrounded by those that I love. Perhaps aspouse, parents, or children, or even close friend perhaps would have gatheredaround. Have you ever wondered how you might feel in those moments. Whenyou don't have much time left, and there is so much that you wanted to say to yourchildren, but time will just not allow. And you realize in those moments thedifficult times that perhaps your loved ones will have to go on to face. And yourealize you will not be there to help. You will not be able share guidance or bearburdens because your time has come to an end. What would you say in those lastmoments? I think if you get this picture in your mind, then you are close to feelingexactly like Paul feels as he pens the last words to Timothy. And so what will hesay, what is his closing plea to make sure that he leaves young Timothy headed inthe right direction.Paul knows all too well the dangers that are facing the church. He himself hasbeen imprisoned and stoned. He has seen the false teachers and he knows whatthey aim to do. He has seen false converts defect from the church. And with all ofthis on his mind, his eyes fix on Timothy, what possible advice can he give?[2Ti 4:1-5 ESV] 1 I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, whois to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: 2preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, andexhort, with complete patience and teaching. 3 For the time is coming whenpeople will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they willaccumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 4 and will turnaway from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. 5 As for you, alwaysbe sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill yourministry.3First, I want to talk about the structure of the passage, because that helps me digestand organize the thoughts in my mind. In verse 1, Paul lays out an overarchingcharge that sets the tone of the passage. Then in verse two we have the mainimperative statement of the entire passage. What is Timothy supposed to do? He isto “preach the word”. Highlight and double underline in. That is the title of themessage, and that is Pauls main point. Preach the word.And the rest of the passage simply explains “how” Timothy is to preach the word.So there are 8 or so imperatives that come after that explain how the Pastor is topreach. And we are going to go thru these this morning. Let's look at verse 1.[2Ti 4:1-5 ESV] 1 I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who isto judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom:We see the first verb is “charge”. It's an important word and one we don't usevery often. Can you imagine if you walked around telling people they are chargedto do something for you. They would think that you are crazy. The language usedhere is a military term. In today's term an officer might say “this is an order!”.This assignment is not optional. There is no negotiation. Timothy must be all earsbecause what Paul is about to say is important.He goes on to say “in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus.” It is as if he stepsthe importance up yet another notch. Paul borrows language in this phrase from aRoman court room. In that day if you were charged with a crime you would begiven instruction of your court date, of the crime that was committed, and thissummons would say something like in the presence of the honorable judge so andso. It is as if we are being reminded of this task that Paul is about to lay out is aformal task. It is not optional. And none other than the Holy trinity itself will standand take account.Verse 1 says he is the judge of “the living and the dead”. The idea here goes backto God as the judge of all mankind.[2Co 5:10 ESV] 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, sothat each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whethergood or evil.4Paul sets the tone for this charge as one of grave importance. This task ofpreaching for both Timothy and all men who would be called to follow after is notto be taken lightly. In fact, this judge mentioned here in verse 1 will judge thesepreachers with even greater scrutiny. This concept of preachers being judged in aspecial way is not just here take a look at James 3:1.[Jas 3:1 ESV] 1 Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for youknow that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.One of my favorite preachers in church history is none other than Dr. MartynLloyd Jones. He was an outstanding physician in London, and even as a youngman was promoted to chief clinical assistant to the King. Sounds like prettyimportant work right?When I came here, people said to me: ‘Why give up good work – a goodprofession – after all, the medical profession, why give that up? If you had been abookie, for instance, and wanted to give that up to preach the gospel, we shouldunderstand and agree with you and say that you were doing a grand thing. Butmedicine – a good profession, healing the sick and relieving pain!' One man evensaid this, ‘If you were a lawyer and gave it up, I'd give you a pat on the back, butto give up medicine!MLJ said about this ‘if you knew more about the work of a doctor, you wouldunderstand. We but spend most of our time rendering people fit to go back to theirsin!' I saw men on their sick beds, I spoke to them of their immortal souls, theypromised grand things. Then they got better and back they went to their old sin! Isaw I was helping these men to sin and I decided that I would do no more of it. Iwant to heal souls. If a man has a diseased body and his soul is all right, he is allright to the end; but a man with a healthy body and a diseased soul is all right forsixty years or so and then he has to face an eternity of hell. Ah, yes! we havesometimes to give up those which are good for that which is the best of all – thejoy of salvation and newness of life.5MLJ had no problem leaving behind a physician for an earthly king, because heknew that call he received to be a preacher for the king of kings was far moreimportant work.So that is verse 1, it sets the stage, it provides the mood, the lighting of everythingwe are about to discuss. Verse 2.Preach the word. Underline this. We said this phrase is the main imperative of thetext. Not just for Timothy but all preachers will be judged based on how true theywere to the command. Preach the word.The Greek verb for preach here is Keruso. And it means to herald. Back in thosedays when there was an order from the King, perhaps a meeting that needed totake place in a particular village, they didn't have a website or a newspaper toshare information. There would be assigned heralds. Who would move out into thebusy parts of towns, into the markets and they would begin to shout, attentionattention, and they would pass along the information. It was a public proclamation,given to all could hear, That is the idea about what it is to preach.But Paul does not permit the preacher to herald just anything, he says preach theword. You may think that should be obvious, but let me tell you it is not. Theremay be a temptation by a pastor, perhaps even by pressure of his congregation todo so something other than preach the word. Paul speaks of the entire council ofscripture. Both the OT and the NT are included. It would be a grave error toexclude any part of the word. “All scripture is God breathed”.I want to stop here and say why I am thankful that our church teaches verse byverse through entire books of the Bible... Growing up topical. Strawman sermonson easy texts. It was rare to deal with difficult passages or work through things thepastor or congregation was struggling to comprehend. A pastor who preaches ashallow message will only develop a shallow congregation. 7 out of 10 youth willwalk away from the faith after they move out of their parents home. Could someof that be that we just won't go deep in the word. To help them understandeverything they are seeing in the world, taught in schools, through the lense of realdeep understanding.6If anything of power, of God is to happen in our church it must happen through thepower that comes from obedience to this command, Preach the word. We can getcaught up in numbers, in strategy, in surveys, and start looking at all the wrongthings. To fufill the imperative in this verse, the church must be a church that iscommitted to the power of preaching as the centerpiece. The church has the task tomake dead men come alive.So now we look at the question of how the pastor is to preach. He is to be ready inseason and out of season. This is the second command or imperative. Did youknow there is no season that is not either in season or out of season? That's all theseasons. The preacher is to always be ready to go. The verb here has a suddennessto it. It is like a soldier who has been put on alert. His bags are packed he is readyto deploy he simply stands by the phone for his orders. He is ready to go, that isthe picture here.This applies to pastors mainly, but we as the congregation can certainly apply it aswell. If our day to day life is marked by disobedience. If we are neglecting theword, if we are neglecting to spend time in prayer. If we are living in a perpetualstate of sin, then how on earth can we be ready. It's easy to get ready for a singleevent right. We can clean ourselves up and get it together for 1 maybe 2 days aweek, but Paul says the preacher is to be ready 24/7. Not an easy thing to do, butthis is the standard by which they will be judged.Okay more imperatives coming up that answer the question “How is the word tobe preached?” We will group the next 3 together because they are sort of similaror related. Still in verse 3 we have:reprove, rebuke, and exhort. This is basically 2 negatives and a positive. Firstly,lets look at reprove. We just saw reprove back in 2 Tim 3:16. It means to correctmisbehavior or to correct false doctrine. It can almost be thought of more as ahead knowledge correction. Or to helps someone think about something rightly.Next we have rebuke. It is closely related, but it deals more with the heart. Itcarries more of the idea of the heart. When the pastor rebukes he is bringing thecongregation under conviction.7This is one of the fundamental differences between teaching and preaching. If Iam teaching you an idea or a passage of scripture I'm just talking to you so thatyou understand the idea that I am trying to communicate, but if am preaching andI am rebuking you now we have the will and the heart and conviction all takingplace. It is something entirely different.Exhort. This is the positive. Parakaleo. Sometimes the Holy Spirit is referred to asParaklyte. Which is to say that he is our helper. So Exort or parakaleo is to comealong aside and lovingly encourage.With complete patience and teaching. The preacher is not to be irritable orimpatient. Even if progress is slow and painful. I think back to Jesus and hisdisciples. Things were slow. Those guys sometimes were just slow. And healways taught with patience.Phil Robertson movie, Blind. Phil was bad. Phil had already turned away thepreacher. Phil bought a bar. Preacher came in the bar. Phil throws him out and isborderline abusive to his wife and family. He ends up throwing them out. And Philhits rock bottom. Pastors be patient. Wives be patient. Husbands be patient. Ms.Kay aske the reverend to go back and talk to him one more time.Vs 3 the preacher is to preach with urgency, “For the time is coming”. Throughoutchurch history there have certainly been ebs and flows. Times of falling away, andthere have been times of great revival. But I think the overall trend as time goes onis that more and more people turn from God. Paul says to Timothy, hey it's the 2minute warning. It's time to score because time is of the essence. The time iscoming, and I believe now more than ever the time has come where:People will not endure sound teaching. Some translations use the pronoun “they”here. The ESV says people, but in either case I think we should consider whothese people are that don't endure sound teaching. At first I thought it was simplythe everybody in the world, but I don't think that is exactly right. You see peoplewho don't go to church have never endured sound teaching or doctrine. So I thinkthe people that are discussed here are what I call “church going people”. These arepeople who fill the seats and the pews of various congregations each and every8Sunday all throughout the world. By context that is the only way this really can beread I think. And when we think about the parable of the wheat and the tares weknow that these congregations, sometimes entire congregations are made of lostpeople.And so as we look around the world, as we look around the churches in the lowcountry, as we look around right here at GCF, what is it that distinguishes thosewho have been born again from those who have not. I believe it is a love and anembrace for true sound doctrine. Paul says the day is coming when they won'ttolerate the true word. Many times a false convert is easy to spot because theyhave no love for the truth of Scripture. Sound doctrine shines a magnifying glasson the wickedness of our sin.Paul says they have “itching ears”. Have you ever had someone ask for your trueopinion and the second that they realize you don't agree with them they stoplistening to you. These unconverted church goers don't want to be confronted withthe weight of a Holy God and a wicked sinner. So with itching ears they seek outsomeone to tell them exactly what they want to hear.The text says they “accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their ownpassions”. I don't know if there has ever been a more obvious time where this hasplayed out in front of us. There is a welcoming congregation for every lifestyle ofsin.And the pulpits are filled with people who not only won'tt mention the sin, butthey will contort scripture and tell you that it is not sin at all.Sin of greed. My pastor never preaches about money because he just says he letsGod deal with that.Self-help and prosperity focused churches are filled with people who want nothingto do with sermons that rebuke and reprove.I remember I was flipping through the channels and I ran across a Pastor who waspreaching to a church that was literally meeting in a football stadium, and it wasfull. I was shocked as I heard the sermon. The Bible was not even required forwhat the man was saying. And I remember thinking how can thousands and9thousands of people sit here with a Bible in there hand and not realize that this isnot the gospel?You know why... I know now. Paul just told me. The day is coming when theywon't tolerate sound doctrine but they will accumulate ear tickling preachers. Hereyou have 10s of thousands of people having their ears tickle, and it is exactly whatthey want to hear.For preachers, it's not easy to say the hard things. For true believers that sit heretoday, don't fall into this trap where you avoid the hard work of searching yourheart for sin. This is why we are here.4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. Theverb here that is translated “turn away” has a medical connotation of a dislocatedjoint. It is as a person turns away so quickly that they snap their neck out of joint.These folks are so turned off by sound doctrine or sound teaching that they snaptheir necks to turn away from it.These false converts then wander off into myths. I think there is principle that isbeing taught in verse 4 that if you don't fill your mind with sound doctrine, yourmind will be increasingly susceptible to believe a lie. (garden of eden example) Bynot filling yourself with sound doctrine, or preachers without preaching sounddoctrine create in the congregation a vulnerability to deception.5 As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of anevangelist, fulfill your ministry.Finally Paul says to be sober minded. This is to be level headed.Endure suffering. It is not a question of if suffering will occur. Faithful preacherswho preach the word become a lightning rod for suffering. Paul knows sufferingvery well and even as he writes these words his suffering continues. It is areminder to those who do the work of ministry, not just preachers, but especiallythose who preach, ministry comes at a cost.10Do the work of an evangelist. This is the 8th imperative. It is the call to the preacherthat he must share the gospel of salvation. Its interesting that Paul doesn't call himto be an evangelist, but to do the work of an evangelist. It is as if he wants him toremember, in everything you do as a preacher, you must also in that do the workthat evangelist would do.Simply put, the pastor is to help people come to terms with their sinfulness. Tounderstand that they are separated from God. To call all who have ears to hear thatthe time is now to repent and to trust in Christ for salvation.Fulfil your ministry. Do everything God has stored up for you, every good work tothe fullness of your ability.This text of course is primarily for preachers, but we as the congretation have arole to fill as well. We must participate in the process of sanctification.Let's pray.

1 Thessalonians 5:16 — What should the Christian's immediate and continual response be to the gospel and salvation? The response should be one of joy! “Rejoice evermore” is more than an emotion; it is a settled reality of all who are saved. In this sermon on 1 Thessalonians 5:16, Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones challenges his listeners with the direct command to rejoice evermore. A Christian is to rejoice evermore for this is the will of God. The command to rejoice is given through the Apostle Paul to the Thessalonians. He states that a clear and defining characteristic of the Christian is that of joy. Having experienced the joy that came with his own conversion, the Apostle Paul now instructs all believers that this is the mark of their Christian lives. However, rejoicing evermore is a tall order. Dr Lloyd-Jones recognizes this and asks: “How are we to do this? How can we rejoice in all things? Should we wait on or work up some type of feeling?” He reminds the listener that the Christian maintains a constant attitude of joy by taking their growing knowledge of the truth and applying it by the Spirit. Salvation and the growing knowledge of the vast implications of the gospel when applied by the Spirit will enable the Christian to rejoice evermore.

1 Thessalonians 5:16 — What should the Christian's immediate and continual response be to the gospel and salvation? The response should be one of joy! “Rejoice evermore” is more than an emotion; it is a settled reality of all who are saved. In this sermon on 1 Thessalonians 5:16, Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones challenges his listeners with the direct command to rejoice evermore. A Christian is to rejoice evermore for this is the will of God. The command to rejoice is given through the Apostle Paul to the Thessalonians. He states that a clear and defining characteristic of the Christian is that of joy. Having experienced the joy that came with his own conversion, the Apostle Paul now instructs all believers that this is the mark of their Christian lives. However, rejoicing evermore is a tall order. Dr Lloyd-Jones recognizes this and asks: “How are we to do this? How can we rejoice in all things? Should we wait on or work up some type of feeling?” He reminds the listener that the Christian maintains a constant attitude of joy by taking their growing knowledge of the truth and applying it by the Spirit. Salvation and the growing knowledge of the vast implications of the gospel when applied by the Spirit will enable the Christian to rejoice evermore. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29

In this episode of "Men Who Rock the World," Dr. Steven Lawson delves into the life and legacy of Martin Lloyd-Jones, the foremost biblical expositor of the 20th century. Dr. Lawson recounts Lloyd-Jones' journey from a promising medical career to becoming a renowned preacher, emphasizing his profound impact on Reformed theology and expository preaching. Highlighting Lloyd-Jones' dedication to verse-by-verse scripture teaching, Dr. Lawson explores his evangelistic fervor and the pivotal role he played in the Reformed resurgence. Listeners will gain insights into Lloyd-Jones' theological convictions and his unwavering commitment to preaching the gospel with passion and clarity.

Hello!**N.B. Our main giving page is here. We especially need help with a new filming project that is arguably the most important project we will ever produce. We need financial backing for venue-hire and the expertise from film-makers/editors.**Thank you for listening to Into the Pray, a podcast akin to a growing library of voice-notes helping disciples of Christ around the world to breach the global chaos of the unfaithful Church...because Christ is coming and we are not ready. This week I read out an excerpt of an address of Martin Lloyd-Jones to his own church during an annual day away as a church family in 1963. Encouragingly for us, the crux of what Lloyd-Jones was saying 61 years ago in 1963 is the same embryonic train of thought as the things I have written in The Glorious Few in 2023, (60 years hence).“If I am right in my diagnosis, the position is moving very rapidly and unless we do something, it may be too late; or we may be so overwhelmed in disaster that it will only be out of a terrible wreckage that we may gradually crawl out into a new position. I say the alternative is to recognise that it is time for us to act, to clarify our own minds.”— MLJ (1963)Please subscribe to our YouTube channel here. See info on our new film series here and here. Maranatha?MARANATHA!Love, Nick & MairiOur flagship content:

In this episode of "Men Who Rock the World," Dr. Steven Lawson introduces us to the formidable Martin Lloyd-Jones, a preacher whose impassioned expositions and deep theological insights marked him as a pivotal figure of the 20th century. Delving into Lloyd-Jones's life and legacy, Dr. Lawson shares personal anecdotes from his extensive research and firsthand visits to key historical sites. Join us to explore how Lloyd-Jones's robust preaching and dedication to the Scriptures sparked a reformed resurgence, profoundly affecting modern Christian thought and practice.

In this compelling episode of "Men Who Rocked the World," Dr. Steven Lawson delves deep into the life and legacy of George Whitefield, often hailed as one of the greatest evangelists since the Apostle Paul. Dr. Lawson explores Whitefield's unparalleled influence during the evangelical era, drawing upon his extensive research and firsthand visits to key historical sites. This episode not only highlights Whitefield's dynamic preaching that spanned continents but also examines his profound impact on church history, emphasizing the significance of understanding this heritage as articulated by Martin Lloyd-Jones. Join Dr. Lawson for a journey through the life of a man whose relentless dedication to spreading the gospel marked a pivotal era in religious history.

Join Jonathan Youssef to navigate the complexities of truth and love. In this episode of Candid, Jonathan will examine the challenges of understanding these concepts, including whether absolute truth exists and the multifaceted nature of love.The conversation touches on the Christian perspective of being salt and light to a dying world that lacks an understanding of truth and love. It highlights the importance of living out the truth of our faith with love and patience in the community.Further, we explore the apostle John's transformation from a zealous youth to a wise elder who embodies truth and love. Through his letter to Gaius, we uncover the joys of faithfulness to the Gospel, the significance of hospitality, and how to discern true from false teachings. This episode aims to inspire a deeper understanding and practice of truth and love in listeners' lives. It encourages reflection on personal beliefs and actions in light of these foundational principles. Join us to explore how these ancient virtues remain relevant and transformative today.After you listen to this episode, you may have questions. We would love to hear from you! To ask Jonathan a question or connect with the Candid community, visit https://LTW.org/CandidAlso, join the conversation on our social media pages:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candidpodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/candidpodTwitter: https://twitter.com/thecandidpodThis transcript recounts Candid Conversations with Jonathan Youssef Episode 244, Are You Walking in Truth?:Today I want to talk to you about Truth and love. These are two words with many different definitions. When I say truth and love, you don't even know what I could say next. I could say anything. Is it my truth? Is it your truth? Is it his truth, her truth, their truth? It's almost as if it's just a subjective topic, a subjective term. Is there anything like absolute truth?And love, my goodness, are we talking about romantic love, brotherly love, or agape love? Are we talking about love that is just tolerance and acceptance? Do we love each other only as long as we agree with each other? Or is it just a feeling or an emotion? Is love self-defined? Love is love.The world today is tied up into knots over these two terms. Can a person have truth and not love? Can a person have love but not truth? Here's the reality: I don't expect the world to get this right. I don't have a great hope that things will get a lot better at any point in time because this is not our home. But at the same time, I have not been called to run out into the hills and build a bunker and stock up on ammunition. We have been called to look at a dying world that does not know the truth and does not understand love, and we are called to be salt, and we are called to be light to them. We are called to encourage one another, to gather and praise God's name together, and to go out and witness to the world together because our message is far greater than any message they will ever hear. No matter your age or stage of life, if you put your saving trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, then your calling is to be obedient to the truth and to walk the truth out in love. A. W. Pink was a reformed theologian who wrote several great books and many fantastic sermons. His writing is so helpful; I've used several of his writings in research that I've done for other sermons. Martin Lloyd-Jones, who was succeeded by our dear friend R. T. Kendall at Westminster Chapel said, “Don't waste your time reading these other theologians,” like Karl Barth and Bruner. He said, “Go and read Arthur Pink. Read Pink.” Pink would tour around America and Australia preaching and teaching, but he was never well-known until after he died. Pink finished out his days living in isolation in Scotland with his wife. They never really became part of a church body. They never got situated with a good church community. Lloyd-Jones also said of Pink, “As it related to his inability to be patient with people and remain in a particular church, if I had behaved as Pink did, I would have achieved nothing. I could see that the only hope was to let the weight of truth convince people, so I had to be very patient and take a long-term look at things; otherwise, I would have been dismissed, and the whole thing would have been finished.”Pink was a man who was grounded in the truth and yet, for whatever reason, was not walking it out. And his own friends testified against him. That's why Scripture is very careful to teach us that we walk these two things out together—truth and love. We should be people who are marked by truth, strong in our convictions, and hold fast to the Word of God, by the Spirit of God, for the glory of God. But we should also be marked by love and generosity, grace and humility, hospitality, and care because all of these are the markings of Jesus's life and ministry on Earth.So, we read about these two things, truth and love, in the shortest letter in the Bible, John's third epistle. Before we go any further, let's take a minute and read from Third John:The elder, To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth. Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. Dear friend, you are a faithful ... you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you. They have told the church about your love. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God. It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. We ought therefore to show hospitality to such men so that we may work together for the truth.John wrote the Gospel of John and First, Second, and Third John. He would also later write the book of Revelation. First John was written to a very general audience. Second John was written to a specific church. And this letter, Third John, was written to a very personal and specific person. Let's take a minute to get to know John. He was a disciple, and he was nicknamed by Jesus, with his brother James, the “sons of thunder”. When Jesus and the disciples were turned away from hospitality from a Samaritan village, it was James and John who went to Jesus and said, “Can we call for fire to come down to judge these people,” - a la Elijah and the prophets of Baal. Jesus rebukes them because his first coming was not one of judgment but to preach the good news, to bring healing, and to bring life. But compare John in his youth to this John here in writing his third letter, and he is referred to simply as “the elder.” John grew from a brash, arrogant young man filled with fire, to this wise, gentle, loving older man who is full of love and truth. What happened to John? How did he move from a son of thunder to the loving elder? What had he experienced? He had witnessed a lot. He had witnessed Jesus's teachings, Jesus' miracles, Jesus' preaching. He witnessed Jesus' patience with the disciples. He witnessed the transfiguration and saw Christ with Moses and Elijah, a depiction of the Law and the prophets. He also witnessed His Lord and Savior crucified on the cross. It was then he was given the position of caring for Jesus's mother, Mary. This is John, who would also see His Resurrected Lord and Savior. John is a man who has been used mightily by the Lord.And John is writing this letter to a man called Gaius. Now, we don't know anything about Gaius. He doesn't appear to be in any sort of leadership in the church that we can tell. All we see is Gaius's character, and that character is being reported back to John. We see that there was some conflict in the church over who was trustworthy. They wanted to know who they could believe.There are so many mixed messages. A preacher would travel from house church to house church and depend on other believers to show them hospitality. In John's second epistle he warns the believers not to welcome in or even greet the false preachers and teachers because that would only help them spread a false gospel. He's saying, “Do not endorse these people, but take the faithful in and welcome them.”So, what are the distinguishing marks between a false teacher and a faithful teacher? Now, these weren't denominational issues. They weren't in disagreement over infant baptism and believer's baptism. They disagreed over whether Christ had physically come in the flesh. John says, “Leave these people alone. Let them go on their way. The truth itself will testify to the faithful teachers.”In essence, he is saying, “If you are a believer who has heard and received the Gospel and your spiritual eyes have been opened, your spirit inside you will resonate with what is being taught and you will know a true teacher of the Gospel.”Teachers were dependent on hospitality. They didn't have Holiday Inn or Motel 6. This is why hospitality was such a major issue in the early church. When Jesus sends out the 12 and the 72, He tells them they will be provided for by people of peace. When Paul writes to the Romans, he fully expects that they will financially support his mission journey to Spain. And the book of Hebrews urges the hearers not to neglect hospitality to strangers. Two great needs, truth and love, together.So John writes to Gaius, verse 1, “The elder to the,” in the ESV, beloved, I'm going to use that term, “the beloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth.”What does it mean to love in the truth? John says that Gaius continues to be faithful to the truth concerning Jesus Christ. And it is the truth that binds us together. We know love because we know the truth.John writes in his first epistle, 1 John chapter 3 verse 16, “By this, we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers because of the truth of the gospel.” Because of the gospel's truth, we are called to love one another. Strangers? Never heard of it, not in the church. I may not know your name, but we are brothers and sisters in Christ. We have more commonality than flesh and blood oftentimes do. Listen to what John writes in verse 2, “Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health as it goes well with your soul.”How does he know it's going well with Gaius's soul? We read it in the next verse: "For I rejoiced greatly when the brothers came and testified to your truth, as indeed you are walking in the truth.”John knows it is going well with Gaius's soul because he is living out the gospel's truth. They testified about his faithfulness to the gospel. Gaius is living out the truth of the gospel in love. He's walking in the truth.John emphasizes that Gaius's faithfulness involves his holding to true doctrine and his persistence and actions, which are consistent with what is in the doctrine. In verse 4, John says that his greatest joy is not that his 401(k) is strong, not that his children's academic and athletic successes are great, not that the design of his home is beautiful, nor that his favorite sports team won a big game. His greatest joy is that his children fellowship with him and actively walk in the truth.In each of his three letters—to the general church, to the specific church, and to the individual—he goes out of his way to say, “This is important to me. I'm conveying what brings me joy: that you are walking in the truth.”Gaius has remained faithful to the gospel. He has not fallen to the false teachings that were swirling around. And he is a source of the elder's greatest joy. Moms and dads, what is your greatest joy regarding your children? Is it that they are academically successful and get into a fantastic college? Is it that they are athletically successful and get scholarships? Is it in your position and the status of your vocation? Is it in the appearance of your home?And this goes beyond families because Gaius is not John's physical son; he's his spiritual son. And so when we are here together as a body, we are, again, brothers and sisters in Christ, and we're constantly putting forth and putting on display what we prize. I wonder if we went around and asked all the children, “What is it that your mom and dad prize, or your grandma and your grandfather?” What are we displaying as the greatest value to the next generation? But I also understand that this can be a source of great pain for many people. Your children may not be walking with the Lord, so instead of being a source of great joy, it is a source of great struggle and pain. I think John would give the word to those in that situation to remain in the truth and love. Don't take truth as a 2 x 4 to your children and try to beat them up with it, insisting that this is right. Your children will despise you for that, and they will despise the truth. But you walk this out in love, with compassion. Don't forget the truth. Instead, hold it together with love. That is the gospel's message as it was put on perfect display by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Then John praises Gaius for his hospitality to traveling preachers. “Beloved, it is a faithful thing you do in all your efforts for these brothers, strangers as they are, who testify to your love before the church.”His efforts for the faithful brothers is what John commends as faithful. It isn't just what Gaius believes is faithful, but also his actions. And it is because of what Gaius believes, what he has planted his faith in, that he can be faithful with his actions. Because if you're not planted in something faithful, your actions won't reflect faithfulness. But Gaius is planted in a living hope. He is planted in a resurrected hope. He is planted in an unconquerable hope. These believers go back to Ephesus, where John was, and they say, “We had an amazing time preaching in this little town. You wouldn't believe it. In this little town, there was a brother in Christ called Gaius, and he was a brother who was strong in the truth. And he was a brother who loved well. He took us in, cared for us, and introduced us to people in the church. He is a dear brother.”How good is it when people speak well of us? Have you ever been conversing with someone you didn't know very well, and you mention a friend, and that person immediately starts to gush over that person? “Oh, I love that person. They are so fantastic! Let me tell you. We were moving, and they came and helped us move.” And then you're sharing stories about how fantastic this person is, how much you love this person, how helpful and insightful they are, and what a blessing they are to know them. I remember in Australia, there was a well-known evangelist and preacher who was contemporaries with John Stott and Dick Lucas, and just like those two men, this man never married. And the Lord used their singleness to serve the global church so well. This man's name was John Chapman, and in typical Australian lingo, they shortened it incredibly and just called him Chapo. He was funny, he was kind, he was generous, he was hospitable. He was a mentor to my pastor in Sydney. He had done some work with Dad in the past as it related to evangelism.And I remember after Chapo died watching his funeral online. The Archbishop of Sydney got up and shared, and he mentioned how deep of an impact Chapo had on so many people. And then he said, “Why don't we all take a minute right now and have everyone just share your Chapo story with your neighbor?” I mean, I almost burst into tears because it was immediate. Not a second had passed, and the room was filled with smiles, laughter, love, and storytelling. And the problem was that they finally had to get up and say, “Stop. Be quiet. Stop. We have to keep going with the service.” Because they could have gone on like that for hours.I have a feeling that would have been Gaius. Maybe on a smaller scale, but that would have been Gaius. People would have gone on and on about how dearly he was loved and his impact on them. I wonder what people would say at a celebration of your life? Would people easily share what an encourager you have been and what a great help you were? Or would they talk about how you may have had your doctrine perfect, dotted every I, and crossed every T, but had no love, like Arthur Pink? There weren't universities, trade schools, or tertiary education in the first century. There were these philosophers who would gather in the town square and philosophize. They would just drone on and on about how their philosophy was right. Nothing has changed. They would try to attract hearers, and then they would start these schools with the hopes that some of these families would say, “We want to send our son to your school,” and then they would train them in that philosophy. Some thought that just as there were stoics, cynics, and epicureans, Christians would have a school like this, and then they would just train up their people like this, that they were just another philosophy of life.But Christians refused to take this money because Christians were not saying they were just another philosophy amongst the rest. They were announcing the Kingdom of God. They were telling people the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. That is not just a philosophy; that is a total worldview perspective that affects everything and everyone. So John says, “These men come in the name of Christ, preaching the word of Christ, and they refuse help from the pagans; therefore, we ought to support people like these, that we may be fellow workers for the truth.”Now listen, I understand we may not be in the same position as Gaius or this church, but think about your missionary care and support. Think about your care and your support for ministries that strive to take the gospel to the lost and those on the outside. Think about how you care for and support the pastoral team in your church. Think about how you care for and support your small group leader; how you care for and support your Bible study leader. Think about what it means to support people in ministry. We are all fellow workers for the truth. Your support carries on our work as preachers. It allows for ministries like Leading The Way to exist, and that work leads to ultimate destinies being changed in people's lives. I read a letter from a young Muslim convert a while back. He was watching the Genesis series we did a while back and talked about how it served, blessed, encouraged, and equipped him. So, your support of the truth motivated by love is serving and blessing this community here and to the rest of the world. What a privilege it is to be a part of something bigger than ourselves, to be supportive of something outside ourselves. When we see that people are blessed and are walking in the truth, that can serve as our greatest joy. I want to leave you with three questions. It would be good to write them down and to think about them this week. First, where does your great joy come from? Second, do people speak well of you regarding truth and love? And finally, are you a fellow worker for the truth? I hope these will serve you well today, tomorrow, the week ahead, and the rest of your life. I hope that they will serve as great motivation.

In this riveting episode of "Men Who Rocked the World," Dr. Steven Lawson delves deep into the impactful lives and legacies of history's spiritual giants—men who, through their unwavering faith and dynamic preaching, played pivotal roles in religious reformations and the Great Awakening. Dr. Lawson's vivid narrative brings to light his extensive research on these transformative figures, emphasizing their reliance on divine intervention to challenge and change the course of history. Highlighting the significance of church history, Lawson echoes the words of Martin Lloyd-Jones, asserting the paramount importance of understanding our religious heritage next to the Bible and theology. With a passionate call to embrace the doctrines of grace, as exemplified by Charles Spurgeon, Lawson invites listeners to explore the profound synergy between unwavering faith in God's sovereignty and a fervent zeal for evangelism. This episode is a compelling invitation to learn from the lives of these devout men, whose teachings and convictions continue to inspire believers to live out their faith boldly and preach the Gospel with conviction.

Scripture: Romans 8:28-30 Key Takeaways: The bad things will all be turned to good.   Romans 8:18   John 11:33-35   John 11:38-39   The good things can never be taken away from you.   John 6:44   Jeremiah 32:38-41   Ephesians 1:4-6   “What matters supremely, therefore, is not, in the last analysis, the fact that I know God, but the larger fact which underlies it—the fact that he knows me.. I know him because he first knew me, and continues to know me. This is momentous knowledge. There is unspeakable comfort—the sort of comfort that energizes, be it said, not enervates—in knowing that God is constantly taking knowledge of me in love and watching over me for my good. There is tremendous relief in knowing that his love to me is utterly realistic, based at every point on prior knowledge of the worst about me, so that no discovery now can disillusion him about me, in the way I am so often disillusioned about myself, and quench his determination to bless me.” - J.I. Packer, Knowing God   “Ultimately, the proof of a right approach to these doctrines is that you find in them the greatest urge to holiness and sanctification. If your belief of these doctrines has not driven you to holiness you are in a dangerous condition … you are misusing them to say: Well, it is all right with me, it matters not therefore what I do. I am saved … No one can truly see these doctrines without being humbled.” - Martin Lloyd Jones    The best things are always ahead of us.   ■          “Foreknew”: God set his love on us. ■          “Predestined”: God planned a glorious process & destination for us. ■          “Called & Justified”: God works out his plan in time. ■          “Glorified”: God completes the plan in eternity.   John 17:22-24   Philippians 3:20-21

John 10:10 — What does the average person think of Christianity? In this sermon on John 10:10 titled “Life Abundant,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says that a simple survey would reveal that people commonly believe Christianity is nothing more than a set of chains on one's life. The average person views Christianity as a prison cell in which one is chained to laws and moral restrictions that steal their very life. This is unacceptable to the non-Christian who wants to experience life. This desperation to experience life leads to leaving the tranquility of the countryside for the life which the city offers. They do this not knowing that the city is a thief, it will offer pleasures that rob them of their life, and ultimately destroy the soul. Why does the average person think this way? Dr. Martin Lloyd Jones explains that they have a wrong view of life. Life is eternal. Thus, in John 10, Jesus proclaims that He came as the true shepherd to bring life and bring it abundantly to His sheep. It is a life that will be eternal and can be lived in glory with God and Christ forever through the forgiveness of sin that He provided on the cross.

John 10:10 — What does the average person think of Christianity? In this sermon on John 10:10 titled “Life Abundant,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says that a simple survey would reveal that people commonly believe Christianity is nothing more than a set of chains on one's life. The average person views Christianity as a prison cell in which one is chained to laws and moral restrictions that steal their very life. This is unacceptable to the non-Christian who wants to experience life. This desperation to experience life leads to leaving the tranquility of the countryside for the life which the city offers. They do this not knowing that the city is a thief, it will offer pleasures that rob them of their life, and ultimately destroy the soul. Why does the average person think this way? Dr. Martin Lloyd Jones explains that they have a wrong view of life. Life is eternal. Thus, in John 10, Jesus proclaims that He came as the true shepherd to bring life and bring it abundantly to His sheep. It is a life that will be eternal and can be lived in glory with God and Christ forever through the forgiveness of sin that He provided on the cross. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29

The bible study session focuses on the closing section of the apostle Paul's letter to the Ephesians (Ephesians Chapter 6). Pastor Matt begins with practical announcements and transitions into discussing the profundity and discipleship value of the Book of Ephesians. Martin Lloyd Jones's commentary on Ephesians is cited to emphasize its importance as a comprehensive manual on Christian faith and practice. The speaker highlights the themes of God's way, glory, and purpose throughout the book. The session encourages believers to study Ephesians deeply, emphasizing the transformative power of the Gospel described within it. After summarizing earlier chapters, the focus moves to Ephesians 6:21-24, where Paul's closing remarks and benediction stress peace, love, faith, grace, and the believers' mutual duty to encourage one another. The speaker concludes by exhorting the audience to continue applying the teachings from Ephesians to their lives, encouraging one another, and growing as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Prepare to embark on an enlightening journey as we launch a new series - "Clash of the Covenants." Through this series, we'll be marinating in thought-provoking truths ranging from the principles of the new covenant, the rejection of Jesus, lessons from the book of Luke, the differences between the old and new covenant, and how it all shapes our Bible interpretation. We promise to take you through the Bible from a refreshingly unique perspective, examining how Psalm 23 isn't about confronting our enemies, but rather enjoying a lavish feast in their presence. We also tackle the accusations of antinomianism that come with preaching grace correctly, leaning on the insights of Martin Lloyd-Jones. We encourage you to serve God not out of fear of punishment but out of love, underscoring how the cross of Jesus changed everything. Experience your faith in a new light as we delve into the Apostle Paul's defense of the gospel's integrity, the power of God's grace, and the boldness that accompanies knowing we have been made new and forgiven through Jesus. As we navigate through the "Clash of the Covenants" series, let us learn, grow, and deepen our understanding of the covenants and our relationship with God.

What stands in Our Way of More? How did Jesus do everything that Jesus did? There are two dominant theories that exist to answer that question, neither are entirely inaccurate, but one of them is most clear: by the power of the Holy Spirit. Before the Holy Spirit rested upon Jesus after His water baptism, Jesus did not do much. However, after he was anointed with the Holy Spirit, He was teaching with authority, working miracles, building disciples, and bringing Heaven to Earth. Here is some more good news; the same Holy Spirit that empowered Jesus wants to empower you. Martin Lloyd Jones said, “If we have what the first Christians had, why do we not do what they did? We must conclude that either God gave them more than He has given us, or we have failed to avail ourselves of what He has given us.” Let's continue to lean in together. "But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don't, the Advocate won't come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you." John 16:7 (NLT)     Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. // John 14:12 Ethos is a life-giving community committed to keeping Jesus at its Center. We are on a mission to love all people in Jesus' name so that we may all Know God, Find Freedom, Discover Purpose, & Make a Difference. EthosOH.com Small Groups: EthosOH.com/Community ServeColumbus.org

Ever wondered why jingles stick in your mind, and how they impact product marketing? Join us as Kory, a jingle enthusiast, unveils the power behind these catchy tunes and their role in our podcast. This discussion segues into a heartwarming revelation about Kory's bond with my family, spanning two decades. Fueled by countless shared moments, our familial bond is a testament to the power of close relationships.Imagine having a tool that empowers you to handle life's most intense emotions. This episode sees us exploring the profound influence of self-talk and emotional control, guided by a thought-provoking quote by Martin Lloyd Jones. Kory shares a personal strategy that has helped him navigate the tumultuous waves of negative self-talk and emotional upheaval. Giving himself a 24-hour window to process events before reacting has proved invaluable to him, and it could be for you too.Battling negative self-talk? Discover how focusing on the positive can change your life. We delve into how self-acceptance and self-love can help shift our perspective, influencing our relationships and interactions. Listen as we tackle the concept of ego and how embracing the philosophy that less is more can lead to profound, life-altering changes. Join this fascinating discussion about jingles, jade plants, family love, and the power of self-talk and emotional control.Look up, and let's elevate!Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/genthebuilder

Apologetics Live episode 206 Justice has been compromised, church has entered the film industry, and theology is more complicated than ever. This episode is a whirlwind of topics that challenges listeners to reconsider their views on faith, power, and the mysteries of life. We navigate the scandalous case of the White House cocaine incident, questioning the integrity of the FBI's investigation and reminding us of the biblical truth of Yahweh's fairness and righteousness. We also touch on the latest church foray into film with a sneak peek at the Essential Church movie. Don't miss our candid conversation with our back-office guest who opens up about her journey with hermeneutics and theology. Ever questioned your understanding of God's supremacy, omnipotence, and omniscience? We've got you covered. We grapple with the complex concepts of open theism and its implications on our view of the future, guided by the Spirit of God. We delve into the teachings of Martin Lloyd Jones on God's wrath and how it shapes our perception of atonement. Our intellectual journey also includes a fierce debate on the theological implications of free will and predestination. And, don't forget to stay tuned for our special guest, Jim Osmond, who will join us next week to discuss prophecy. Our deep dive into theology doesn't end there. We wrestle with the complexities of Calvinism, human responsibility, and the sovereignty of God. We're joined by guests who share their experiences with Calvinism and how it influenced their faith journey. We explore the implications of predestination on human free will, challenging the concept of a 'frozen chosen.' Finally, we talk about the importance of holiness, repentance, and the transformative power of being conformed to the image of Christ. This episode is packed with thought-provoking theological debates and insightful discussions that will leave you questioning, reflecting, and yearning for more. This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast Community Support Striving for Eternity Give us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.com Write us a review and tell us how we are doing. Fill out our suvery about this show. Sponsors: Logos Bible Software MyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

Apologetics Live episode 206 Justice has been compromised, church has entered the film industry, and theology is more complicated than ever. This episode is a whirlwind of topics that challenges listeners to reconsider their views on faith, power, and the mysteries of life. We navigate the scandalous case of the White House cocaine incident, questioning the integrity of the FBI's investigation and reminding us of the biblical truth of Yahweh's fairness and righteousness. We also touch on the latest church foray into film with a sneak peek at the Essential Church movie. Don't miss our candid conversation with our back-office guest who opens up about her journey with hermeneutics and theology. Ever questioned your understanding of God's supremacy, omnipotence, and omniscience? We've got you covered. We grapple with the complex concepts of open theism and its implications on our view of the future, guided by the Spirit of God. We delve into the teachings of Martin Lloyd Jones on God's wrath and how it shapes our perception of atonement. Our intellectual journey also includes a fierce debate on the theological implications of free will and predestination. And, don't forget to stay tuned for our special guest, Jim Osmond, who will join us next week to discuss prophecy. Our deep dive into theology doesn't end there. We wrestle with the complexities of Calvinism, human responsibility, and the sovereignty of God. We're joined by guests who share their experiences with Calvinism and how it influenced their faith journey. We explore the implications of predestination on human free will, challenging the concept of a 'frozen chosen.' Finally, we talk about the importance of holiness, repentance, and the transformative power of being conformed to the image of Christ. This episode is packed with thought-provoking theological debates and insightful discussions that will leave you questioning, reflecting, and yearning for more. This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast Community Support Striving for Eternity Give us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.com Write us a review and tell us how we are doing. Fill out our suvery about this show. Sponsors: Logos Bible Software MyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

Are you ready to delve into the assurance of salvation, spiritual growth, God's law, and our responsibilities as devoted followers of Christ?In this must-see episode, Tiffany and Pastor Jeff explores the profound themes of the New Testament letter written by Apostle Paul. Throughout the discussion, they explore topics such as assurance of salvation, spiritual growth and maturity, the significance of God's law, and the responsibilities that come with being followers of Christ. By delving into these areas, we gain valuable insight into the true essence of citizenship within God's divine kingdom.[00:00 - 09:08] Exploring Paul's Epistle to the RomansTiffany Coker and Pastor Jeff Cranston discuss the New Testament letter of Paul to the Romans, which is considered a theological masterpiece Written by Paul from Corinth around 56-58 AD, the letter addresses the Roman church formed by Jewish Christians returning from JerusalemPaul was hoping to visit Spain, but it is unknown if he ever did[09:09 - 17:59] The Journey of Paul's LetterThe Holy Spirit gave the apostles the ability to proclaim the gospel in languages unknown to them but understood by those who spoke themPaul wrote to the believers in Rome to prepare them for his visit and establish his apostolic credentialsThe letter to the Romans addresses profound theological themes such as justification, redefining the people of God, salvation, spiritual growth, the Holy Spirit's role, and believers' responsibilitiesThe Romans had a postal system used primarily for government and military communication with unmatched speed until the 19th centuryA woman named Phoebe carried Paul's letter from Corinth to Rome, a journey of 650 miles[18:00 - 27:58] Justification and the Redefinition of God's PeopleRomans is a Christian manifesto declaring freedom through ChristThe two major theological themes are justification and redefining who the people of God areJustification highlights that righteousness is attained through faith in Christ, not rituals or lineageThe book is divided into sections on the need for salvation, Christ's redemptive work, the inclusion of Gentiles, and practical implications for believersPaul tackles issues to bring unity and peace to the church by reminding us that salvation is for everyone who believesQuotes: "Human beings are born in sin and slavery, but Jesus Christ came to set us free from all of that." - Pastor Jeff Cranston"Dr. Martin Lloyd Jones says this Romans is the greatest masterpiece ever written. It is a colossal and incomparable statement of Christian truth." - Tiffany CokerJoin the ConversationWe love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.org.    Visit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter. Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church.     Check-in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranston    Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

The books talked about on today's episode:The Puritan Hope by Iain H. MurrayThe Forgotten Spurgeon by Iain H. MurrayThe Life of Martin Lloyd-Jones by Iain H. MurrayHere I Stand: A Life of Martin Luther by Roland H. BaintonA Hobbit, A Wardrobe, and a Great War by Joseph LoconteTeam of Rivals by Doris GoodwinNo Man Knows My History by Fawn M. BrodieThe Good Country by John LauckBecoming Elizabeth Elliot by Ellen VaughnBeing Elisabeth Elliot by Ellen VaughnElisabeth Elliott; A Life by Lucy AustinDevotedly by Valerie ShephardA Path Through Suffering by Elisabeth ElliottFor more information about this group, please visit their website at reformationboise.com. If you have a question, comment, or even a topic suggestion for the Pastors, you can email them here. There is only one rule: Be Kind!

Exodus 3:6 — Blaise Pascal once said, “God is not the God of the philosophers.” In this sermon on Exodus 3:6 titled “A Living God,” Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones expounds on how dangerous this statement is. The philosophers deal in the abstract, but Christians have a God that is real and can be known personally. When God described himself to Moses as I AM in Exodus 3:6, He was showing Himself as the familiar and intimate God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows in this sermon that this God is a God of compassion and faithfulness throughout the ages. This is the God who sees the sorrows and looks upon Christians as a father pities His children and then works His good purposes for them. He remains who He has always been: the God who was in covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and He acts out of compassion on the Christian's behalf.

Exodus 3:3 — Christians must be careful not to turn to God only when they are disturbed by an experience or to satisfy curiosity. This is what Moses did at the burning bush, but God arrested Moses's cares and attention. In this sermon from Exodus 3:3 titled “It is God Who Acts,” Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones addresses this fatally casual approach to God. He states how often Christians address God out of exhaustion or need. He corrects this by saying that Christians must always begin with God as He is the root of all things. What a transformation would take place if Christians applied God to their experience rather than appealing their experiences to God. Indeed, Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows that the main business of Christianity is Christ's death on the cross that brings His people face to face with God. God is so pure that He cannot look upon sin, but because of salvation the Christian can enter His presence. Not only this, but God's plan for salvation is certain, as seen in this passage. He sees the Christian's sorrows and acts as He did for the Israelites. Dr. Lloyd-Jones encourages turning to God in full attention as His purposes are good and He has cared for the greatest need so that His people might dwell in His presence rather than address Him only when they must.

Paul Washer speaks from Song of Solomon and how it is more than a romance between a man and a woman but foremost about the living relationship between Jesus Christ and the Church.Throughout the message, we are reminded that we must spend time in the presence of Jesus, and how, as Martin Lloyd Jones warned, our lives will become nothing but a bunch of cold principles if the presence and power of God are not in our life.Learn more about the Bravehearted Voices Podcast and how you can be discipled and grow spiritually by visiting braveheartedvoices.com

FAMILY BIBLE STUDY SERIES ON THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW “A true Christian must exemplify the beatitudes.” – Dr. Martin Lloyd Jones

Luke 1:46-55 — Is Christmas really that important? Does the story of Christ's birth really matter? In this sermon on Luke 1:46–55 titled “The Magnificat I,” Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones preaches of the true significance of Christmas. Christmas is not simply to warm hearts, nor only to produce a cheerful attitude. Christmas is a time when believers in Jesus Christ must magnify the Lord their God. Through an explanation of “The Magnificat” in Luke's passage, Dr. Lloyd-Jones aids listeners with a rich and theologically profound explanation of Mary's song of praise upon learning she is pregnant with Jesus. One of the first points Dr. Lloyd-Jones emphasizes is Mary's heart in forgetting herself and praising the Lord. She is humbled and grateful that the Lord would choose her to bear the Savior of the world. She is able to praise God so thoroughly because her praise is based on understanding, not simply emotion. Since she is able to understand a portion of God's glory, her emotions correspond and she praises God. She praises God's power, without which not a soul on this earth would be saved. She praises His holiness, without which He would not be worthy of praise. She praises His mercy, without which everyone would be condemned. In God's precious mercy, He chose Mary to bear Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. Listen in as Dr. Lloyd-Jones helps the hearer worship God better.

Martin Lloyd-Jones was an advocate of Christians learning to talk to themselves rather than listening to themselves. Listen and learn how th Psalmist talked to himself which resulted in brining him calm and comfort in the midst of his trials.

1:48: Ski Patrol training and tree wells6:07: Mixing shows and Star Wars7:20: Bacon fig jam9:30: Bible Project's Introductory to the Psalms12:00: More struggles with our daughter16:01: Repentance and specificity19:48: There is truth in confessing more but…22:30: Depression and confession [Spiritual Depression, Martin Lloyd-Jones]25:50: Using the gospel as law and Jesus Juking28:03: What you must do to experience fulfillment30:54: Lecturing kids and the law33:41: Why does James call the NT law perfect but then calls it Liberty35:23: The importance of leaning in to God's perfect law as people who chafe against rules37:06: Start with the question of who God is37:43: Practical examples for the kids41:54: You're going to feel like a slave43:30: History of the Christmas Hymn: Joy To The World48:52: Show CloseToo Busy to Flush Telegram GroupGet $10 in Bitcoin! (Gemini App)Pique Tea - Referral Link (Website)

We pray with Martin Lloyd Jones in praise of the Holy Spirit and the Vally of Vision Remix --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/shawn-odendhaldap/message

The Holy Spirit Working Through Us How did Jesus do everything that Jesus did? There are two dominant theories that exist to answer that question, and neither are entirely inaccurate but one of them is most clear. He did it by the power of the Holy Spirit. Before the Holy Spirit rested upon Jesus after His water baptism, Jesus did not do much. However, after he was anointed with the Holy Spirit; He was teaching with authority, working miracles, building disciples, and bringing Heaven to Earth. Here is more good news; the same Holy Spirit that empowered Jesus wants to empower you. Martin Lloyd Jones said, “If we have what the first Christians had, why do we not do what they did? We must conclude that either God gave them more than He has given us, or we have failed to avail ourselves of what He has given us.” Let's continue to avail ourselves to all that God has made available to us. “…believe in the evidence of the miraculous works I have done, even if you don't believe me. Then you will know and understand that the Father is in me, and I am in the Father.” -John 10:38 (NLT)- Ethos is a life-giving community committed to keeping Jesus at its Center. We are on a mission to love all people in Jesus' name so that we may all Know God, Find Freedom, Discover Purpose, & Make a Difference. EthosOH.com Small Groups: EthosOH.com/Community ServeColumbus.org

In this episode pastors Daniel and Taylor talk about Psalms 42-43, which are an expressive window into the emotional and psychological struggles that many people face. But not only do we hear the voice and experience of an anxious heart crying out in these psalms, but we also find great hope in and through Christ. In the episode we refer to the following resources: 1) "The Silence of God" by Andrew Peterson (https://youtu.be/0cY4SJ_aBnY) 2) Spiritual Depression by Martin Lloyd Jones (https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Depression-D-Martyn-Lloyd-Jones/dp/0551031654) 3) Why is My Teenager Feeling Like This? by David Murray (https://www.crossway.org/books/why-is-my-teenager-feeling-like-this-tpb/) 4) Christians Get Depressed Too by David Murray (https://www.amazon.com/Christians-Get-Depressed-Too-People/dp/1601781008)Time:AfternoonMinister:Pastors Daniel & TaylorTexts:Psalm 42Psalm 43Hebrews 4:15–16Series:Midweek Musings

Thoroughly Equipped S.2 Ep.11 Continuing our IF:Gathering critique series, we are looking at the way these popular speakers handle the Scripture at the conference. Bianca Juarez Olthoff was given Romans 8:31-37 to teach on. Topics included in this episode: What is Romans 8:31-37 all about? What does Paul mean by "we are more than conquerors"? How are we more than conquerors? Do we "possess a power within ourselves"? Who's power is being emphasized in Romans 8:31-37? I HIGHLY suggest you listen to Martin Lloyd Jones' sermon titled "More Than Conquerors"(link provided below) and compare it to what I've played for you. What a difference! https://www.mljtrust.org/search/?name=&q=Romans+8%3A37 Enjoy! And may this episode bless you and bring glory to God! Other resources: Striving for Eternity Christian Podcast Community

Valerie Elliot Shepard, the only daughter of Jim and Elisabeth Elliot, shares about her early years living in the jungle with her missionary parents. Not only do we hear unique stories about Jim and Elisabeth, we also hear more about how their legacy shaped Valerie's time as a pastor's wife and mother to eight children. You will be encouraged by hearing Valerie's story of God's faithfulness through trials and His goodness in her life.    Valerie Elliot Shepard Show Notes    Devotedly by Valerie Elliot Shepard   Pilipinto's Happiness: The Jungle Childhood of Valerie Elliot by Valerie Elliot Shepard and Jim Howard  Elisabeth Elliot Website  The Strong Women Podcast 34. The Life of Elisabeth Elliot with Ellen Vaughn  Becoming Elisabeth Elliot by Ellen Vaughn  Let Me Be a Woman by Elisabeth Elliot  The Strong Women Mug  Shadow of the Almighty: The Life and Testament of Jim Elliot by Elisabeth Elliot  Passion and Purity by Elisabeth Elliot  The Mark of a Man by Elisabeth Elliot  What Happens When Women Pray by Evelyn Christenson  A Severe Mercy by Shelden Vanauken  Cheaper by the Dozen by Frank B. Gilbreth and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey  Books by Amy Carmichael  Mitford Series  Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss  Thoughts Concerning the King by Elizabeth Prentiss  More Love to Thee by George Lewis Prentiss  A Chance to Die by Elisabeth Elliot  Discipline: The Glad Surrender by Elisabeth Elliot  Daily Light by Anne Graham Lotz  Lilias Trotter: Daring in the Desert by Irene Howat    Additional Suggestions from Valerie:  Here is a variety of books or authors I would recommend (besides my mother!)  Children Under Loving Command by Al and Pat Fabrizio   Love So Amazing by Gilbert Gleason (about my father's brother who lived with his wife for 62 years in Peru as missionaries)  The Christian's Secret of a Happy Life by Hannah Whitall Smith  Hints on Child Training by Henry Clay Trumbull  Joy Unspeakable by Martin Lloyd Jones  Books by Andrew Murray  Books by Lilias Trotter  Books by Gene Stratton-Porter  Books by Ruth Chou Simons  Books by Ann Voskamp  Books by Paul David Tripp  The Gospel Comes with a House Key by Rosaria Butterfield  Books by Rose Marie Miller (Jack Miller's wife. He was a Presbyterian pastor and prof at Westminster, who wrote a wonderful study on Galatians which changed our lives!)    Join Strong Women on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/strongwomencc   Erin and her husband, Brett, run Maven which “exists to help the next generation know truth, pursue goodness, and create beauty, all for the cause of Christ.” Check out more about Maven here: https://maventruth.com/    The Strong Women Podcast is a product of the Colson Center which equips Christians to live out their faith with clarity, confidence, and courage in this cultural moment. Through commentaries, podcasts, videos, and more, we help Christians better understand what's happening in the world, and champion what is true and good wherever God has called them.  Learn more about the Colson Center here: https://www.colsoncenter.org/    Visit our website and sign up for our email list so that you can stay up to date on what we are doing here and also receive our monthly book list: https://www.colsoncenter.org/strong-women 

Praying with Martin Lloyd Jones in his commentary on Habakkuk --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/shawn-odendhaldap/message

For those of us who are still recovering from losing an hour of sleep, greetings Monday, as it isn't very happy today. However, if overpaying for your caffeine doesn't make your morning better, hearing this weeks episode of The Cruciformed Life Podcast surely will as you listen about how we are the equivalent of a wet towel at making reconciliation happen in our relationships. Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones says the following in regards to making reconciliation a priority vs. going through the motions: “Ceremony, regular attendance at worship, and giving will never produce a clear conscience. If we are at odds with others because of our actions and are unwilling to do anything about it, attendance at a worship service is an exercise in hypocritical futility.” Join us today as we challenge ourselves and all who listen to heed these precious commands in Matthew 5 to lower ourselves and care for our relationships in our every day walk. Not to mention, there is a special surprise for those of us that are fans of John Piper. You're going to love this episode and make sure you're back next week as we have another special guest! Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe on whatever streaming platform you use! Also, make Pat's day and connect with us on social media through our facebook and instagram page where you'll find us @thecruciformedlife! You can always reach out to us as well by emailing us at: thecruciformedlife@gmail.com! No Distance Anymore appears on The Cruciformed Life Podcast courtesy of Loud Harp and their album: Hope Where There Was None. Check them out at loudharp.com and find their amazing music on every major streaming platform! Episode Resources: John Piper - Lead By Going Low Clip used by permission of Desiring God Ministries