Righteousness on SermonAudio

What is most supreme in life? Can the Christian say with the psalmist that communion with God is supreme in the whole of life and existence? In this sermon on Psalm 84:3 titled "The Sparrow," Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones walks through three certain things that are absolute essentials if one is to enjoy life like this. First, in reviewing his first two primary considerations, religion is not simply a matter of living, or of doing good, but rather one of knowing God: "The only thing that brings us into the presence of God is the blood of Jesus." Additionally, the Christian learns that it is the truth of Christianity that is most essential, while the effectiveness of such a religion is merely an effect of its foundation of truth. Finally, Dr. Lloyd-Jones bring a new consideration, one that declares the Christian ought not only know the truth about God, but that they must realize the truth about themselves. They need a place of rest. No one has ever become a true Christian without feeling restless and homeless. To enjoy the blessings the psalmist expresses in Psalm 84:3 is to be aware of one's helplessness and defenselessness.

Some call the Bible just a book of fairy tales, some call it a bronze age book that cannot be trusted. Some claim that it's a book filled with contradictions, historical inaccuracies and that it conflicts with modern scientific thought. But the Bible says in Psalm 119:160, "Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever." John 17:17 says, "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." And Jesus said, as is recorded in Matthew 5:18, "For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled." So is it possible to make a compelling case that Christian belief is based in evidential reality and is far from being a blind or naïve leap of faith? The answer to that is yes! Why do people question or even attack the Bible? Does "apologetics" mean Christians are apologizing for the Bible or their faith? What does it mean that the Bible is inspired by God? Is it inerrant, sufficient and complete? What are six of the most compelling lines of evidence related to the Bible? These and other related questions are answered by Todd Hampson. Todd is an author, speaker, illustrator, animation producer, and co-host of the Prophecy Pros podcast. Todd's award-winning animation company, Timbuktoons, has produced content for many well-known ministry organizations. Todd has a burden to reach the next generation with the Gospel through the convincing proofs of Bible prophecy and apologetics--the very things that led to his salvation as a teenager. He is author of the newly released, "The Apologetics Guide to Trusting the Bible."

A false outworking of faith is the result of a faulty foundation. In this sermon on Psalm 84:1–12 titled "True Religion," Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones continues a consideration of preliminary considerations of utmost importance as answered by the psalmist. First, through a brief discussion of what true religion is, and second through an evaluation of what the final authority of faith is. With faith, there must be a leaving and a taking up, a denial and a following. Today, some people want the benefits of religion, but in their own way. Find out the relationship between a faith that works and a faith that is built on truth. Are these two interchangeable? If one has a faith that works, does that determine its trueness? Dr. Lloyd-Jones directly addresses this issue and reminds his listeners that religion should most certainly be practical. False peace will let one down when they need it most, but the truth and promises of God are certain because of the character of God that they derive from. If one wants the blessings, they must accept the truths. To get God's peace, they must take His wrath against sin and come to the altar in Christ.

**In all labour there is profit:** but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury. (Proverbs 14:23) ~~~~ This sermon was preached at Priory Strict Baptist Chapel, Maidstone on Tuesday evening. ~~~~ *1/ The profit of an unprofitable labour. 2/ Profitable labour. 3/ The profitable labours of our Lord.* **Sermon summary:** This sermon explores the theological distinction between empty words and genuine spiritual labour, anchored in Proverbs 14:23. It argues that even seemingly unprofitable efforts, such as the vanity of worldly pursuits or the failure of self-righteousness, yield profit by revealing human inability and driving believers toward Christ. The message emphasizes that true religion requires active engagement in prayer, obedience, and service, contrasting the 'talk of the lips' with the substance of works. Ultimately, the sermon points to the supreme labour of Jesus Christ, whose suffering and death accomplished the eternal redemption of His people, offering rest and profit to those who labour in faith.

Phillip Waddell - Proverbs: Words of the Wise