From the MLJ Archive

Ephesians 2:4 — In this powerful sermon, preached at Columbia Bible College's Ben Lippen Conference Center near Asheville (North Carolina), Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones expounds on the profound significance of two simple words found in Ephesians 2:4 - "But God." He argues that these words encapsulate the very essence of the Christian gospel and should be the most frequent words on the lips of believers today. Dr. Lloyd-Jones contrasts the hopeless state of mankind apart from God, dead in sin and under the influence of Satan, with the miraculous intervention of God's grace. He emphasizes that the gospel is inherently supernatural and divine, beyond human comprehension or ability. Using examples like Mary and Nicodemus, he shows how even devout people can stumble over the miraculous nature of God's work. The preacher highlights the element of surprise in the gospel - that God would love and save those who were His enemies. He stresses that salvation is entirely of God from beginning to end, not dependent on human effort or decision. Dr. Lloyd-Jones marvels at God's rich mercy, great love, and exceeding grace toward undeserving sinners. He proclaims that through Christ, believers are not only raised from spiritual death but seated with Him in heavenly places. Ultimately, Dr. Lloyd-Jones presents the "But God" of the gospel as the only true hope and encouragement for both individuals and the church in a dark and troubled world.

*Please note that some sections of the original sermon were lost in the audio recording. However, we have done our best to make the sermon as seamless as possible.