Martyn Lloyd-Jones on Reading Old Books

Recently finished reading volume two of Iain Murray’s biography on D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones. Was happy and encouraged to see the great emphasis the Doctor placed on reading books, especially the older ones:

In Dr Lloyd-Jones’ view, a greater influence for change, as far as literature was concerned, was not new books at all but the older reformed and Puritan classics which, though now becoming very scarce, could still be found in the second-hand bookshops. – p.350

‘It is very interesting to note how the type of theology you hold will decide whether you are reader or whether you are not.’ His theology, as it was preached, made people readers.” – p.360

Martyn Lloyd-Jones… was convinced that, next to the pulpit, it was books which could most effectively spread the Christian faith.” – p.635

Tolle lege!

Five Foundation Principles in the Presentation of the Gospel

D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones

1. The supreme object of this work is to glorify God… The first object of preaching the Gospel is not to save souls… Nothing else, however good in itself, or however noble, must be allowed to usurp that first place.

2. The only power that can really do this work is that of the Holy Spirit…

3. The one and only medium through which the Holy Spirit works is the Word of God… The medium which is used by the Holy Spirit is the truth.

4. The true urge to evangelization must come from apprehending these principles and, therefore, of a zeal for the honour and glory of God, and a love for the souls of men.

5. There is a constant danger of error, and of heresy, even amongst the most sincere, and also the danger of a false zeal and the employment of unscriptural methods.