Sin and Emotion in the Preaching of Martyn Lloyd-Jones

Abstract

In this dissertation, I argue that a major aim of Martyn Lloyd-Jones’s preaching was to make sin felt. This is done by showing that his theology demands, his specific goals confirm, and his methods fulfil the aim of preaching to make sin felt. In chapter 1, I discuss the past research on MLJ, as well as the argument and methodology of this dissertation. In the next two chapters I look at how MLJ’s theology demanded him to make sin felt in his preaching, focusing on his views on sin in chapter 2, and his views on the emotions in chapter 3. MLJ’s thoughts on the four doctrines of man, salvation, the Christian life, and the Holy Spirit are investigated in both chapters. In chapter 4, I argue that MLJ specifically aimed to make sin felt in his preaching. I explore not only his overt statements throughout his work, but also show how his preaching philosophy is connected to such an aim. In chapter 5, I show that MLJ actually preached in a way that made sin felt, and discuss a wide array of methods that he used to achieve this aim. The extensive nature of these methods strongly suggests that making sin felt was a major aim for MLJ. Lastly, I offer some concluding remarks in chapter 6.