From the MLJ Archive

This historical address, delivered by Iain Murray a few months after the death of Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones in 1981, reflects on the life and legacy of this great preacher of the gospel. Mr. Murray, a close friend of Dr. Lloyd-Jones and his official biographer, shares personal memories and insights from the final months of Dr. Lloyd-Jones's life. He emphasizes Dr. Lloyd-Jones' deep faith, his preparation for death, and his lifelong commitment to biblical truth. Mr. Murray recounts how Dr. Lloyd-Jones viewed his declining health as an opportunity to prepare spiritually for eternity, rather than lamenting his inability to preach. He highlights Dr. Lloyd-Jones's continued devotion to Scripture reading, prayer, and theological reflection even as his health failed. The address provides glimpses into Dr. Lloyd-Jones's thoughts on death, the sovereignty of God, and the importance of ministers being well-prepared to feed their congregations spiritually. It also touches on key moments in Dr. Lloyd-Jones' life and ministry, including his conversion, call to ministry, and influential tenure at Westminster Chapel in London. Throughout, Mr. Murray emphasizes Dr. Lloyd-Jones's unwavering trust in God's providence and his desire to face death with Christian testimony. The sermon serves as both a tribute to Dr. Lloyd-Jones and an exhortation to other ministers to follow his example of faith, diligence in study, and focus on eternal realities. It provides a deeply personal and moving portrait of one of the 20th century's most significant preachers in his final days.