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PregacAo e Pregadores
O que é a pregação? É a lógica pegando fogo! É a teologia em chamas! É raciocínio eloquente! Algumas afirmações de Lloyd-Jones demonstram o seu espírito resoluto e a sua consideração elevada pela pregação: Qual é a principal finalidade da pregação? Gosto de pensar que é esta: dar a homens e mulheres o senso de Deus e de sua presença. Nosso dever é apresentar o evangelho em sua totalidade. Pregar é a atividade mais admirável e emocionante na qual um homem pode se envolver, por causa do que ela nos proporciona no presente e das gloriosas e infindas possibilidades no futuro eterno. ... a obra da pregação é a mais elevada, a maior e a mais gloriosa vocação para a qual alguém pode ser chamado. O Doutor Martin Lloyd-Jones já era um pregador veterano quando proferiu a série de palestras que deu origem a esta obra clássica, no início dos anos de 1970. E, embora muitos anos tenham se passado desde a primeira edição desta obra, podemos, sem dúvida alguma, chamá-la de atual e mais necessária do que nunca. Aqui, o experiente servo do Senhor, chamado para ocupar tão nobre e árduo ofício, o de arauto, embaixador do Reino, pregador do evangelho, transmite humildemente aos pregadores e aspirantes ao ministério todo conhecimento que adquiriu ao longo dos anos, através da meditação nas Escrituras, estudo da história da igreja e de sua experiência pastoral. Ele chama a atenção do pregador, lembrando que a pregação deve ser fiel, fruto de uma boa hermenêutica, exegese acurada, preparo diligente - estudo, sensibilidade, oração - entrega honrosa, feita por homens - no sentido pleno da acepção - honrados, vocacionados por Deus, chamados, , confirmados e ordenados pela igreja.
304 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 1972
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About the author
D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones
343 books586 followersDavid Martyn Lloyd-Jones was a Welsh Protestant minister, preacher and medical doctor who was influential in the Reformed wing of the British evangelical movement in the 20th century. For almost 30 years, he was the minister of Westminster Chapel in London. Lloyd-Jones was strongly opposed to Liberal Christianity, which had become a part of many Christian denominations; he regarded it as aberrant. He disagreed with the broad church approach and encouraged evangelical Christians (particularly Anglicans) to leave their existing denominations. He believed that true Christian fellowship was possible only amongst those who shared common convictions regarding the nature of the faith.
David Martyn Lloyd-Jones was married to Bethan Lloyd-Jones
Books about D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones: https://www.goodreads.com/characters/...
David Martyn Lloyd-Jones was married to Bethan Lloyd-Jones
Books about D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones: https://www.goodreads.com/characters/...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 303 reviews
May 11, 2012
About "Preaching & Preachers" Warren Wiersbe said, "I urge my fellow preachers to read this book at least twice: once to disagree and once to be helped."
I think this most adequately describes my feelings toward my first read of P&P. This was my first foray into the world of DM Lloyd-Jones and I did not know what to expect except for the fact that most preachers I admire, admire Lloyd-Jones.
At this time I don't feel like giving an in depth review, but instead will give some general thoughts that I appreciated. I've thought about engaging with some of his thought in regards to the primacy of the preacher and the rest of the congregation, but for now just a couple of thoughts.
-First and foremost, the chapter on the calling of the preacher is worth the price of the book alone. That chapter will be the place that I start forwarding friends who tell me that they think they're called to be pastors.
-I found it interesting how much he knew, quoted, and admired the history of saints of old. His admiration for Whitefield came out in just about every chapter. Same with Spurgeon. Definitely reminded me why I love church history so much.
-He is the most extreme person I've ever read. Every opinion he has is strong. To be honest though, it made him that much more fun to read.
-His love for people, which in turn motivates his love gospel preaching, is incredibly admirable. He cares ultimately for the people who sit under preaching, and the methods used should magnify the gospel and serve the congregation to hear and respond to the gospel.
There really is so much that could be said, but this review is not that place. To conclude, I'll say that I enjoyed this book, but can see myself enjoying it much more if I were pastoring a church.
I think this most adequately describes my feelings toward my first read of P&P. This was my first foray into the world of DM Lloyd-Jones and I did not know what to expect except for the fact that most preachers I admire, admire Lloyd-Jones.
At this time I don't feel like giving an in depth review, but instead will give some general thoughts that I appreciated. I've thought about engaging with some of his thought in regards to the primacy of the preacher and the rest of the congregation, but for now just a couple of thoughts.
-First and foremost, the chapter on the calling of the preacher is worth the price of the book alone. That chapter will be the place that I start forwarding friends who tell me that they think they're called to be pastors.
-I found it interesting how much he knew, quoted, and admired the history of saints of old. His admiration for Whitefield came out in just about every chapter. Same with Spurgeon. Definitely reminded me why I love church history so much.
-He is the most extreme person I've ever read. Every opinion he has is strong. To be honest though, it made him that much more fun to read.
-His love for people, which in turn motivates his love gospel preaching, is incredibly admirable. He cares ultimately for the people who sit under preaching, and the methods used should magnify the gospel and serve the congregation to hear and respond to the gospel.
There really is so much that could be said, but this review is not that place. To conclude, I'll say that I enjoyed this book, but can see myself enjoying it much more if I were pastoring a church.
September 9, 2023
One of my favorite books on preaching. Though the book is somewhat dated now, so much of the Doctor’s practical advice is timeless! I especially appreciate his deep knowledge of biography and church history, his emphasis on the ministry of the Holy Spirit, and his practical insight into the “pitfalls and romance” of preaching. Inspirational, convicting, and sometimes even funny, this is a great read! (This was at least my 7th time through. Also completed on 4/19/21; 5/17/19; 5/12/10; 12/10/01; 6/28/99; and in 1997).
January 26, 2024
The love this man had for our Savior and the mountainous task of explaining who Christ is through the preaching of the Word… A task we should fear in making sure we preach Christ rightly. Who is sufficient for such things…
Must read!
Must read!
April 29, 2025
Anyone that has, does or wishes to preach should read this book. A great reminder that preaching is for God, about God and of God. Man is merely a vessel through which the Lord works.
Praise God for MLJ and his commitment to the truth of the Scriptures.
Praise God for MLJ and his commitment to the truth of the Scriptures.
November 8, 2017
“What is the chief end of preaching?” asks Lloyd-Jones. “I like to think it is this. It is to give men and women a sense of God and His presence.”
And it is to this end the the author draws from his own vast experience to instruct others who are called to preach. This book reads exactly like what it is: a compilation of lectures given by Lloyd-Jones to theological students in 1969.
Mincing no words, the author is opinionated and direct, logic-driven yet passionate. There is plenty here with which to take issue. There is much, much more to consider, reflect upon and apply to the pulpit. That’s why Warren Wiersbe said about this book, “I urge my fellow preachers to read this book at least twice; once to disagree and once to be helped.”
Lloyd-Jones covers multiple facets, from the supremacy of preaching to the character of the preacher; from the preparation of the sermon to the pitfalls every preacher should avoid. Above all he stresses that without the anointing of the Holy Spirit and the favor of God, one’s time and labor over a sermon are in vain.
Preaching and Preachers has become a classic because it has challenged, helped and encouraged numerous pastors since its publication. It has done so because Lloyd-Jones was a man whose pulpit ministry was used of the Lord. Therefore, he has something to share--and something worth hearing.
One particularly helpful section deals with the importance of the minister reading frequently and widely. “There is ample material; indeed the preacher’s great difficulty is to find sufficient time for reading; it is a constant battle.”
Lloyd-Jones was a serious and thoroughly biblical expositor. He criticized humor from the pulpit and downplayed what’s become staple in evangelical circles: the altar call. He had his critics. But he also had their respect and admiration.
Referring to the “romance” of preaching, Lloyd-Jones writes, “There is nothing like it. It is the greatest work in the world, the most thrilling, the most exciting, the most rewarding, and the most wonderful.” He would also be quick to add that it’s not for everyone. Only those called of the Lord to preach should do so. But to those who are (or those who want to understand those who are), this book will resonate the soul with its insight, exhortations and wisdom.
“What matters [in preaching]? The chief thing is the love of God, the love of souls, a knowledge of the truth, and the Holy Spirit within you. These are the things that make a preacher.”
And it is to this end the the author draws from his own vast experience to instruct others who are called to preach. This book reads exactly like what it is: a compilation of lectures given by Lloyd-Jones to theological students in 1969.
Mincing no words, the author is opinionated and direct, logic-driven yet passionate. There is plenty here with which to take issue. There is much, much more to consider, reflect upon and apply to the pulpit. That’s why Warren Wiersbe said about this book, “I urge my fellow preachers to read this book at least twice; once to disagree and once to be helped.”
Lloyd-Jones covers multiple facets, from the supremacy of preaching to the character of the preacher; from the preparation of the sermon to the pitfalls every preacher should avoid. Above all he stresses that without the anointing of the Holy Spirit and the favor of God, one’s time and labor over a sermon are in vain.
Preaching and Preachers has become a classic because it has challenged, helped and encouraged numerous pastors since its publication. It has done so because Lloyd-Jones was a man whose pulpit ministry was used of the Lord. Therefore, he has something to share--and something worth hearing.
One particularly helpful section deals with the importance of the minister reading frequently and widely. “There is ample material; indeed the preacher’s great difficulty is to find sufficient time for reading; it is a constant battle.”
Lloyd-Jones was a serious and thoroughly biblical expositor. He criticized humor from the pulpit and downplayed what’s become staple in evangelical circles: the altar call. He had his critics. But he also had their respect and admiration.
Referring to the “romance” of preaching, Lloyd-Jones writes, “There is nothing like it. It is the greatest work in the world, the most thrilling, the most exciting, the most rewarding, and the most wonderful.” He would also be quick to add that it’s not for everyone. Only those called of the Lord to preach should do so. But to those who are (or those who want to understand those who are), this book will resonate the soul with its insight, exhortations and wisdom.
“What matters [in preaching]? The chief thing is the love of God, the love of souls, a knowledge of the truth, and the Holy Spirit within you. These are the things that make a preacher.”
August 25, 2024
If you’re looking for a few bits of practical insight for better preaching, this book is not for you. It’s mostly Lloyd-Jones’ self-vindication against other popular preachers of his day.
If you’re interested in preaching as a fixture of Reformed liturgy, this book is not for you. Lloyd-Jones’ system of preaching is pragmatic methodistic revivalism.
If you’re interested in the great preaching tradition of Christian history, this book is not for you. Lloyd-Jones’ historical reading is limited to eighteenth-century Protestant hagiography.
If you like halfway decent writing, this ain’t it.
Read chapter one on the primacy of preaching and nothing else.
If you’re interested in preaching as a fixture of Reformed liturgy, this book is not for you. Lloyd-Jones’ system of preaching is pragmatic methodistic revivalism.
If you’re interested in the great preaching tradition of Christian history, this book is not for you. Lloyd-Jones’ historical reading is limited to eighteenth-century Protestant hagiography.
If you like halfway decent writing, this ain’t it.
Read chapter one on the primacy of preaching and nothing else.
January 5, 2025
Fascinating. Encouraging. Such an enjoyable read. I don’t know why I didn’t read this earlier.
December 23, 2024
(5/5) I think this is my favorite ministry-related book I’ve ever read. I wanted to read it all over again the minute I put it down. I underlined more than I have in any other book. Absolutely fantastic- a joy to read! Cannot recommend it enough. The 40 year anniversary edition has little mini chapters from Piper, Dever, Keller and more.
December 12, 2023
I was told this is a book that you need to have been preaching a while to really appreciate.
That was my experience! Reading it this time round, I enjoyed the book much more than I did in seminary. When I first read it, I thought, 'good, but not sure why it's such a classic.'
This time I was encouraged and strengthened in the task. Many of the strains of discouragement in the work of preaching MLJ addressed are the main ones I've felt in my own soul in the week-in week-out work of preaching. It's amazing how so many of the trends MLJ denounced in his day are still kicking today (in different clothes).
I still disagree with him on some points. But I was helped and provoked and spurred on in the glorious work of preaching God's Word. It made me grateful for the privilege anew. It made me eager for the work.
That was my experience! Reading it this time round, I enjoyed the book much more than I did in seminary. When I first read it, I thought, 'good, but not sure why it's such a classic.'
This time I was encouraged and strengthened in the task. Many of the strains of discouragement in the work of preaching MLJ addressed are the main ones I've felt in my own soul in the week-in week-out work of preaching. It's amazing how so many of the trends MLJ denounced in his day are still kicking today (in different clothes).
I still disagree with him on some points. But I was helped and provoked and spurred on in the glorious work of preaching God's Word. It made me grateful for the privilege anew. It made me eager for the work.
March 7, 2022
Warren Wiersbe is quoted as saying, “I urge my fellow preachers to read this book at least twice; once to disagree and once to be helped.” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones is a very opinionated Welshman. This book contains a lot that you will agree with, but probably a lot you will strongly disagree with too. The Doctor believes preaching should be done a certain way, and leaves little room for other opinions.
I found myself making many notes while reading the first half of the book. MLJ boldly declares, “The work of preaching is the highest and the greatest and the most glorious calling of which anyone can ever be called” (17). I mostly agreed with his esteem, definitions, and descriptions of preaching. These early chapters are very profitable and edifying (chapters 1-5). After his assessments of the preacher (how he should prepare to preach), his message, and his congregation (chapters 6-9), my love and support for MLJ’s opinions began to diverge more frequently beginning in chapter 10.
I agree that sermons should “always be expository” [even topical sermons] (209). I agree, “There is a very real danger of putting our faith in the sermon rather than in the Spirit. Our faith should not be in the sermon, it should be in the Holy Spirit Himself” (241). Amen! I almost completely disagree with MLJ’s opinions about illustrations. He is right to insist that “[Illustrations] should never be an end in and of themselves” (243). This goes without saying. To claim that using illustrations is the “art of the harlot” is not only ridiculous, but it also goes against nearly all Biblical examples of preaching – including the Biblical examples of the sermons of Christ (243).
MLJ correctly asserts that “Our business is to make sure that what moves the people is the Truth and not our imagination” (249). So true. He warns against the “argument from results” and “when the medium controls the message” (263). These are great cautions and lessons.
I either disagree or do not understand why MLJ instructs his readers not to direct the sermon to the will. I do that every week (Luke 14:23). I also found his opinion and illustrations about “the unction of the Holy Spirit” to be very different than the “unction” John refers to in 1 John 2:20, 27. With that said, like MLJ, I wholeheartedly desire the “demonstration of the Spirit and of the power” (1 Cor 2:4) in my preaching.
I would not recommend this book as a manual for young preachers to read as their sole textbook for homiletics training, however, it will make an excellent addition to a list or library on the glorious calling and subject of preaching. At the very minimum, MLJ’s book will whet every preacher’s appetite and stir every passion to preach in the Spirit’s power rather than in the flesh and form of man’s power.
I found myself making many notes while reading the first half of the book. MLJ boldly declares, “The work of preaching is the highest and the greatest and the most glorious calling of which anyone can ever be called” (17). I mostly agreed with his esteem, definitions, and descriptions of preaching. These early chapters are very profitable and edifying (chapters 1-5). After his assessments of the preacher (how he should prepare to preach), his message, and his congregation (chapters 6-9), my love and support for MLJ’s opinions began to diverge more frequently beginning in chapter 10.
I agree that sermons should “always be expository” [even topical sermons] (209). I agree, “There is a very real danger of putting our faith in the sermon rather than in the Spirit. Our faith should not be in the sermon, it should be in the Holy Spirit Himself” (241). Amen! I almost completely disagree with MLJ’s opinions about illustrations. He is right to insist that “[Illustrations] should never be an end in and of themselves” (243). This goes without saying. To claim that using illustrations is the “art of the harlot” is not only ridiculous, but it also goes against nearly all Biblical examples of preaching – including the Biblical examples of the sermons of Christ (243).
MLJ correctly asserts that “Our business is to make sure that what moves the people is the Truth and not our imagination” (249). So true. He warns against the “argument from results” and “when the medium controls the message” (263). These are great cautions and lessons.
I either disagree or do not understand why MLJ instructs his readers not to direct the sermon to the will. I do that every week (Luke 14:23). I also found his opinion and illustrations about “the unction of the Holy Spirit” to be very different than the “unction” John refers to in 1 John 2:20, 27. With that said, like MLJ, I wholeheartedly desire the “demonstration of the Spirit and of the power” (1 Cor 2:4) in my preaching.
I would not recommend this book as a manual for young preachers to read as their sole textbook for homiletics training, however, it will make an excellent addition to a list or library on the glorious calling and subject of preaching. At the very minimum, MLJ’s book will whet every preacher’s appetite and stir every passion to preach in the Spirit’s power rather than in the flesh and form of man’s power.
March 29, 2015
There isnt much I can say about this book that others haven't. It is a must read for new and old pastors alike as well as those contemplating pastoral ministry. This book reaffirmed my lack of calling to pastoral ministry but as someone who desires to disciple young men, some of which may be called to ministry, this book was extremely helpful. Dr Martyn Lloyd Jones is extremely dogmatic, which I love. While I do not agree with everything he says in this book I do agree with the majority of it. In our day in age so much attention is put on small groups that we have diminished the importance of preaching. This book is timely in calling us back to a right reverence of preaching as that is and will always be God's means of calling sinners to Himself along with building up the church. My favorite chapter was 14 "Calling For Decisions". This is a topic that I have felt uneasy about even when I was not a Christian.
The following quote really stuck out to me:
"I go on to assert as my tenth point that no sinner ever really ‘decides for Christ’. That term ‘decide’has always seemed to me to be quite wrong. I have often heard people use expressions which have disturbed me, and made me feel very unhappy. They have generally done so in ignorance and with the best intentions. I can think of an old man who often used the following expression: ‘You know, friends, I decided for Christ forty years ago, and I have never regretted it.’What a terrible thing to say! ‘Never regretted it!’But that is the kind of thing people say who have been brought up under this teaching and approach. A sinner does not ‘decide’for Christ; the sinner ‘flies’to Christ in utter helplessness and despair saying—Foul, I to the fountain fly, Wash me, Saviour, or I die. No man truly comes to Christ unless he flies to Him as his only refuge and hope, his only way of escape from the accusations of conscience and the condemnation of God’s holy law. Nothing else is satisfactory. If a man says that having thought about the matter and having considered all sides he has on the whole decided for Christ, and if he has done so without any emotion or feeling, I cannot regard him as a man who has been regenerated. The convicted sinner no more ‘decides’for Christ than the poor drowning man ‘decides’to take hold of that rope that is thrown to him and suddenly provides him with the only means of escape. The term is entirely inappropriate."
The following quote really stuck out to me:
"I go on to assert as my tenth point that no sinner ever really ‘decides for Christ’. That term ‘decide’has always seemed to me to be quite wrong. I have often heard people use expressions which have disturbed me, and made me feel very unhappy. They have generally done so in ignorance and with the best intentions. I can think of an old man who often used the following expression: ‘You know, friends, I decided for Christ forty years ago, and I have never regretted it.’What a terrible thing to say! ‘Never regretted it!’But that is the kind of thing people say who have been brought up under this teaching and approach. A sinner does not ‘decide’for Christ; the sinner ‘flies’to Christ in utter helplessness and despair saying—Foul, I to the fountain fly, Wash me, Saviour, or I die. No man truly comes to Christ unless he flies to Him as his only refuge and hope, his only way of escape from the accusations of conscience and the condemnation of God’s holy law. Nothing else is satisfactory. If a man says that having thought about the matter and having considered all sides he has on the whole decided for Christ, and if he has done so without any emotion or feeling, I cannot regard him as a man who has been regenerated. The convicted sinner no more ‘decides’for Christ than the poor drowning man ‘decides’to take hold of that rope that is thrown to him and suddenly provides him with the only means of escape. The term is entirely inappropriate."
June 14, 2024
If this book doesn’t make you want to proclaim God’s truth with zeal, nothing will.
“What then are we to do about this? There is only one obvious conclusion. Seek Him! Seek Him! What can we do without Him? Seek Him! Seek Him always. But go beyond seeking Him; expect Him. Do you expect anything to happen when you get up to preach in a pulpit? Or do you just say to yourself, Well, I have prepared my address, I am going to give them this address; some of them will appreciate it and some will not?' Are you expecting it to be the turning point in someone's life? Are you expecting anyone to have a climactic experience? That is what preaching is meant to do. That is what you find in the Bible and in the subsequent history of the Church. Seek this power, expect this power, yearn for this power; and when the power comes, yield to Him. Do not resist. Forget all about your sermon if necessary. Let Him loose you, let Him manifest His power in you and through you. I am certain, as I have said several times before, that nothing but a return of this power of the Spirit on our preaching is going to avail us anything. This makes true preaching, and it is the greatest need of all today- never more so. Nothing can substitute for this. But, given this, you will have a people who will be anxious and ready to be taught and instructed, and led ever further and more deeply into 'the Truth as it is in Christ Jesus. This 'unction', this 'anointing, is the supreme thing. Seek it until you have it; be content with nothing less. Go on until you can say, 'And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power. He is still able to do 'exceeding abundantly above all that we can ask or think.”
Amen.
“What then are we to do about this? There is only one obvious conclusion. Seek Him! Seek Him! What can we do without Him? Seek Him! Seek Him always. But go beyond seeking Him; expect Him. Do you expect anything to happen when you get up to preach in a pulpit? Or do you just say to yourself, Well, I have prepared my address, I am going to give them this address; some of them will appreciate it and some will not?' Are you expecting it to be the turning point in someone's life? Are you expecting anyone to have a climactic experience? That is what preaching is meant to do. That is what you find in the Bible and in the subsequent history of the Church. Seek this power, expect this power, yearn for this power; and when the power comes, yield to Him. Do not resist. Forget all about your sermon if necessary. Let Him loose you, let Him manifest His power in you and through you. I am certain, as I have said several times before, that nothing but a return of this power of the Spirit on our preaching is going to avail us anything. This makes true preaching, and it is the greatest need of all today- never more so. Nothing can substitute for this. But, given this, you will have a people who will be anxious and ready to be taught and instructed, and led ever further and more deeply into 'the Truth as it is in Christ Jesus. This 'unction', this 'anointing, is the supreme thing. Seek it until you have it; be content with nothing less. Go on until you can say, 'And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power. He is still able to do 'exceeding abundantly above all that we can ask or think.”
Amen.
July 8, 2021
This is an excellent book.
I have a lot of time for Martyn Lloyd-Jones. I do admit that his writing style can be quite circular and verbose, yet as a person and as a preacher, he was very biblical and very solid. He loved the LORD, and was used greatly by God in the UK last century, and is still being used through his books.
Lloyd-Jones provides a famous definition of preaching known as "logic on fire." He spends a lot of time on the pitfalls and dangers of the preacher, which I found to be immensely practical and helpful. I will provide a couple of points I found very true:
"A sermon is meant to be a proclamation of the truth of God as mediated through the preacher. People do not want to listen to a string of quotations of what other people have thought or said. They have come to listen to you..." (p.222).
"What is the rule then? It is: be natural; forget yourself; be so absorbed in what you are doing and in the realisation of the presence of God, and in the glory and the greatness of the Truth that you are preaching, and the occasion that brings you together, that you are so taken up by all this that you forget yourself completely" (p.264).
"We can become drunk on music-there is no question about that. Music can have the effect of creating an emotional state in which the mind is no longer functioning as it should be, and no longer discriminating. I have known people to sing themselves into a state of intoxication without realising what they were doing. The important point is that we should realise that the effect produced in such a case is not produced by the Truth..." (p.272).
The last chapter discussed the role of the Holy Spirit, and the unction of the Holy Spirit, within a sermon. This is a most underappreciated element of preaching, which is most shocking as it is so important and vital. Would read again.
I have a lot of time for Martyn Lloyd-Jones. I do admit that his writing style can be quite circular and verbose, yet as a person and as a preacher, he was very biblical and very solid. He loved the LORD, and was used greatly by God in the UK last century, and is still being used through his books.
Lloyd-Jones provides a famous definition of preaching known as "logic on fire." He spends a lot of time on the pitfalls and dangers of the preacher, which I found to be immensely practical and helpful. I will provide a couple of points I found very true:
"A sermon is meant to be a proclamation of the truth of God as mediated through the preacher. People do not want to listen to a string of quotations of what other people have thought or said. They have come to listen to you..." (p.222).
"What is the rule then? It is: be natural; forget yourself; be so absorbed in what you are doing and in the realisation of the presence of God, and in the glory and the greatness of the Truth that you are preaching, and the occasion that brings you together, that you are so taken up by all this that you forget yourself completely" (p.264).
"We can become drunk on music-there is no question about that. Music can have the effect of creating an emotional state in which the mind is no longer functioning as it should be, and no longer discriminating. I have known people to sing themselves into a state of intoxication without realising what they were doing. The important point is that we should realise that the effect produced in such a case is not produced by the Truth..." (p.272).
The last chapter discussed the role of the Holy Spirit, and the unction of the Holy Spirit, within a sermon. This is a most underappreciated element of preaching, which is most shocking as it is so important and vital. Would read again.
February 15, 2022
I wish I had read this book years ago. It is immensely helpful. The book reads a bit like a lecture because it was originally given as a series of lectures at Westminster Theological Seminary. Although Lloyd-Jones delivered these in 1969 the issues he tackles are being wrestled with still today. I appreciate his biblical approach to preaching and will definitely reference this book in the future.
October 22, 2023
This book is fantastic. Certainly should be read by anyone claiming to be a preacher or pastor. His writing is a bit all over the place and the book doesn’t have a great flow to it, but it’s widely entertaining. MLJ has so much to say as to why our pulpits are generally ineffective.
April 19, 2025
Strong advice and even stronger opinions.
October 3, 2025
Full of quirky advice and highly anachronistic, but I love the main point - and I think it's already benefiting my preaching.
October 22, 2022
Fantastic
September 22, 2024
Preaching and Preachers by Dr. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones is a wonderful book that emphasizes the man more than the art of preaching and spiritual preparation more than sermon preparation. The author contends that the most urgent trend in the church and world is true preaching. While the book was published in 1971, I believe the Doctor would cling to his original statement if he were alive today.
The author discusses the reason for preaching’s decline and makes the case for the priority of preaching based on Scripture and church history. The Doctor contends that the primary task in preaching is to put man into a right relationship with God, to reconcile man to God. Everything else in ministry flows from being faithful to the primary purpose, namely – preaching.
The author distinguishes between the kerygma – evangelistic preaching from the Didache, or preaching that deals primarily with the edification of believers. Either way, preaching must always be based on a theological foundation and not violently impose a theological system upon the text. Rather the system of theology should be used as a filter to check a particular interpretation.
All sermons should be expository. Dr. Lloyd-Jones begins with the initial text and walks the reader through his exegetical procedure. Once a doctrine is thoroughly explored, the preacher must consider the relevance of the doctrine and the people who will be listening. He writes, “You are to show that this message is vitally important for them and that they must listen with the whole of their being because this is really going to help them.”
“The chief end of preaching is to give men and women a sense of God and His presence.” The preacher must therefore stand in the pulpit with authority and exude a sense of seriousness, warmth, urgency, persuasiveness, and power.
The author discusses how the preacher must prepare himself. He contends that preachers must maintain a general discipline of life and an attitude of prayer. He adds that serious preachers need to regularly read the Bible systematically and maintain good reading habits that include a study of theology, church history, biographies, and apologetics.
This book has many strong points. First, it is immensely personal. The author truly shares from the heart. Second, the section on “calling” is very helpful, especially to younger preachers. Next, Dr. Lloyd-Jones encourages preachers to beware of extremes in our post-modern era. Further, the author’s passion for preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ rings true on every page which motivates this preacher to do the same. Finally, I especially appreciate the repeated emphasis on relying on the Holy Spirit.
With the rise of the so-called emergent church, watered-down teaching and preaching, doctrinal compromise, and the downplaying of authoritative proclamation, Preaching and Preachers is a welcome reminder of the necessity of Christ-saturated, uncompromising preaching.
Soli Deo Gloria!
The author discusses the reason for preaching’s decline and makes the case for the priority of preaching based on Scripture and church history. The Doctor contends that the primary task in preaching is to put man into a right relationship with God, to reconcile man to God. Everything else in ministry flows from being faithful to the primary purpose, namely – preaching.
The author distinguishes between the kerygma – evangelistic preaching from the Didache, or preaching that deals primarily with the edification of believers. Either way, preaching must always be based on a theological foundation and not violently impose a theological system upon the text. Rather the system of theology should be used as a filter to check a particular interpretation.
All sermons should be expository. Dr. Lloyd-Jones begins with the initial text and walks the reader through his exegetical procedure. Once a doctrine is thoroughly explored, the preacher must consider the relevance of the doctrine and the people who will be listening. He writes, “You are to show that this message is vitally important for them and that they must listen with the whole of their being because this is really going to help them.”
“The chief end of preaching is to give men and women a sense of God and His presence.” The preacher must therefore stand in the pulpit with authority and exude a sense of seriousness, warmth, urgency, persuasiveness, and power.
The author discusses how the preacher must prepare himself. He contends that preachers must maintain a general discipline of life and an attitude of prayer. He adds that serious preachers need to regularly read the Bible systematically and maintain good reading habits that include a study of theology, church history, biographies, and apologetics.
This book has many strong points. First, it is immensely personal. The author truly shares from the heart. Second, the section on “calling” is very helpful, especially to younger preachers. Next, Dr. Lloyd-Jones encourages preachers to beware of extremes in our post-modern era. Further, the author’s passion for preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ rings true on every page which motivates this preacher to do the same. Finally, I especially appreciate the repeated emphasis on relying on the Holy Spirit.
With the rise of the so-called emergent church, watered-down teaching and preaching, doctrinal compromise, and the downplaying of authoritative proclamation, Preaching and Preachers is a welcome reminder of the necessity of Christ-saturated, uncompromising preaching.
Soli Deo Gloria!
December 15, 2016
If you’ve ever had a favorite professor, and it didn’t matter what he was teaching, you just enjoyed sitting and listening to him- that’s what it feels like to read this book! Preaching and Preachers is a compilation of a series of lectures D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones (toward the end of his ministry) gave at Westminster Theological Seminary in 1969. Don’t worry, it doesn’t feel dated! Jones critiques many things in the Evangelical movement of his day and says that he’s seen them all before under different names. Things come full circle, and nearly 50 years later, churches are still dealing with the same false teachings, repackaged and made to look fresh. Perhaps the thing I love most about this book is how opinionated Jones is! I don’t agree with all of his opinions, but it is refreshing to hear someone speak so bluntly and step on some toes. While this book isn’t written as a manual to teach you how to prepare a sermon, it will make you a better preacher if you engage with its truths.
February 1, 2022
4.7 Stars - Top Read of 2020
This is an excellent book on preaching from the greatest preacher of the 20th century. Filled with snippets of preaching wisdom and strong opinions (that I found myself disagreeing with). But these are far overshadowed by Lloyd-Jones' vision of preaching, "Logic on Fire," preaching that brings the congregation into the presence of God and is filled with the Spirit's "unction".
This is an excellent book on preaching from the greatest preacher of the 20th century. Filled with snippets of preaching wisdom and strong opinions (that I found myself disagreeing with). But these are far overshadowed by Lloyd-Jones' vision of preaching, "Logic on Fire," preaching that brings the congregation into the presence of God and is filled with the Spirit's "unction".
November 29, 2022
completely unhinged
November 30, 2022
I HATE PREACHING BOOKS I HATE PREACHING BOOKS I HATE PREACHING BOOKS
June 2, 2025
Not sure why I gave this 3 stars last time I read it.
January 18, 2025
Every preacher needs to read this book. Its lessons are timeless and timely for today. It will challenge you in ways you do not like. At times it will come off curmudgeonly. Do not put it down. Read it like you would listen to a grandfather, or a beloved old professor. He gives time tested wisdom straight from the source of the Word.
Admittedly, some of his qualms are dated. For example, he insists that the preacher must wear a black robe to exude the proper seriousness of biblical exposition (but never a hood, because that would be pretentious). As you can see, the spiritual principles remain, even if the applications are slightly altered.
Ditch the how-to, self-help sermon paperbacks. Read this and apply it to your pulpit.
Admittedly, some of his qualms are dated. For example, he insists that the preacher must wear a black robe to exude the proper seriousness of biblical exposition (but never a hood, because that would be pretentious). As you can see, the spiritual principles remain, even if the applications are slightly altered.
Ditch the how-to, self-help sermon paperbacks. Read this and apply it to your pulpit.
May 27, 2025
While I don't agree with all of Lloyd-Jones' strong opinions (who does!), this book resonated with me more deeply with anything I've read on preaching. I plan to read it again.
Quotes:
If people can listen to us without becoming anxious about themselves or reflecting on themselves we have not been preaching.
Prepare, and prepare carefully, and yet be free.
A preacher must always convey the impression that he himself has been gripped by what he is saying. If he has not been gripped nobody else will be.
Preaching is theology coming through a man who is on fire.
The preacher's first, and the most important task is to prepare himself, not his sermon.
Quotes:
If people can listen to us without becoming anxious about themselves or reflecting on themselves we have not been preaching.
Prepare, and prepare carefully, and yet be free.
A preacher must always convey the impression that he himself has been gripped by what he is saying. If he has not been gripped nobody else will be.
Preaching is theology coming through a man who is on fire.
The preacher's first, and the most important task is to prepare himself, not his sermon.
November 20, 2023
This is a refreshing take on preaching. Rather than focus of “techniques” or “forms” as most books in the last century have, Loyd Jones spends his time on what makes up a preacher and what makes up biblical preaching. This book is a helpful blend of convicting and encouraging. I hope to re-read this one.
July 23, 2020
Livro excelente...
June 22, 2021
Will certainly reread this. Can’t say enough positive things about it. I felt like as I read it I kept getting more sad that the end was approaching, Like a good chocolate cake.
August 5, 2021
The best book I have read on preaching. You won't agree with everything but it is still well worth the read.
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