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As we come to the end of the twentieth century we see ever more clearly its
shape and we endeavour to understand it in the light of God's providence. When
we consider who have been the great men of God who have contributed more than
most to its character we think, on the Christian side, of people like Billy
Graham, C S Lewis, John Stott, maybe others. For many of us, towering over all,
is the figure of Doctor D Martyn Lloyd-Jones. However, it is possible that even
at this early date, just 100 years since his birth, there are Christians who may
pick up this magazine and either not know the name or not know why he is
considered to be so significant. That is a tragedy.
The purpose of this magazine, then, which focuses in large part on the ministry
of Dr Lloyd-Jones, is not to wallow in nostalgia or to encourage unhealthy
longings for the past but to alert readers to the rich heritage that lies in his
writings and tapes and to awaken a sense of gratefulness to God for such a gift.
We are today surrounded by pygmies. There are no evangelical leaders of the
stature of a Lloyd-Jones or a Spurgeon, to recall a previous century. In the
absence of such a figure we must recognise God's providence and walk as wisely
as we can, trusting to God that in his time he will raise up those who are
worthy and able to lead us in wisdom.
When a minister visited Lloyd-Jones during his final illness he impressed upon
him `Remember, I am a lost sinner saved by grace.' We do not forget that. It is
the grace of God in his life that we truly want to emphasise. If you miss that
there is no point reading further. |
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