What do doctrine and practice have to do with each other? Some Christians doubt the relevance of doctrine to the Christian life at all. For them it’s simply a matter of being ethical and moral and there is no need to understand biblical doctrine for good works. Antinomians, on the other hand, hold to doctrine but live however they please. In this sermon on Romans 12:1–2 titled “The Christian Life,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says “no” to both. One may claim doctrine however they wish but if it does not change their life, they have not understood the doctrine. Likewise, Dr. Lloyd-Jones says, doctrine is key to Christian morals because it provides the right motivation and power to live the sanctified life in Christ Jesus. He contends in this sermon that Paul shows that motives are important and the Christian lives in view of God’s mercy. The strength to perform good works is not simply in one’s own effort but the power that comes from the Holy Spirit. If the doctrine proclaimed in evangelism does not match Christian practice, says Dr. Lloyd-Jones, the doctrine has been misunderstood. If good works are not informed by doctrine, a person is not truly living the Christian life. Listen as he unpacks the key distinctive of a Christian life.
