Insight for Living

The Bible-Teaching Ministry of Pastor Chuck Swindoll

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God Knows What He’s About

When we consider the vastness of the universe, much less the seven billion souls inhabiting our planet, we can struggle to believe that God cares about our circumstances.

We can trust that God knows us, and His plans are woven in the fabric of our everyday lives. By studying the prophet Jonah and Saul of Tarsus,  we will learn that even when we doubt, rebel, and display our weakness of pride, God knows what He’s about. His plans will not be thwarted.


In this five-part holiday series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores the unshakable certainty of God’s sovereignty. Whether through the precise fulfillment of ancient prophecies or the dramatic transformation of a stubborn heart, these messages demonstrate that God is never surprised and never sidelined. By looking at the lives of Mary, Jonah, and Saul of Tarsus, we see that God’s plans are woven into the fabric of history and our individual lives, reminding us that even in chaos, He knows exactly what He is about.

Message 1. God Keeps His Promises (Isaiah 7:14; 9:6–7; Micah 5:2)

  • Overview: Examines the staggering accuracy of Messianic prophecies. It establishes that if God kept His word regarding the first coming of Christ, we can be certain He will keep every other promise in Scripture.
  • Key Fact: Prophecies about Christ’s birth were given hundreds of years in advance, pinpointing the lineage, the nature of the birth, and the specific location (Bethlehem).
  • Scripture: Micah 5:2 – “But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah… from you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel.”

Message 2. God Chooses His Servants (Luke 1:26–38)

  • Overview: Focuses on the angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary. It highlights God’s tendency to choose the obscure and the humble to fulfill His greatest purposes.
  • Key Fact: Mary’s response (“Behold, the bondslave of the Lord”) is the ultimate model of availability and trust in God’s sovereign plan.
  • Scripture: Luke 1:38 – “And Mary said, ‘Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.'”

Message 3. God Sends His Son (Luke 2:1–20)

  • Overview: A Christmas message detailing the “quiet entry” of the Savior. It explores how God used a Roman census and a pagan emperor to ensure the Messiah was born exactly where prophecy predicted.
  • Key Fact: The “fullness of time” included the perfect political and social conditions for the arrival of the King of kings.
  • Scripture: Luke 2:7 – “And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger.”

Message 4. God Bends a Stubborn Will (Jonah 1–4)

  • Overview: Traces the reluctant journey of Jonah. It illustrates that while we can run from God’s call, we cannot outrun His reach or His determination to accomplish His mission.
  • Key Fact: God is more interested in the transformation of His servant than just the delivery of a message to Nineveh.
  • Scripture: Jonah 2:9 – “Salvation is from the Lord.”

Message 5. God Humbles a Proud Heart (Acts 9:1–19)

  • Overview: The dramatic conversion of Saul of Tarsus on the road to Damascus. This message proves that no heart is too hard for God to break and no past is too dark for God to redeem.
  • Key Fact: Saul went from “breathing threats and murder” to being a “chosen instrument” to carry God’s name before kings and Gentiles.
  • Scripture: Acts 9:15 – “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings.”

Common Questions: God Knows What He’s About

1. How can I trust God’s plan when my life feels out of control? As Pastor Chuck explains in “God Keeps His Promises,” our trust is based on God’s track record. When we see how He managed the complex details of Christ’s birth through multiple world empires and centuries of time, we can rest knowing He is equally capable of managing the details of our lives today.

2. Why does God often choose “ordinary” people for extraordinary tasks? In “God Chooses His Servants,” it is noted that God chooses the humble so that His power—not human talent—gets the glory. Like Mary, our greatest “qualification” is our willingness to be available for whatever He asks.

3. Does God still “bend” wills like He did with Jonah? Yes. In “God Bends a Stubborn Will,” the series teaches that God’s “severe mercy” often involves allowing us to reach the end of ourselves (the “belly of the whale”) so that we finally look to Him. His “bending” is always an act of love to bring us back to His purpose.

4. What can the conversion of Saul teach us about difficult people in our lives? The message “God Humbles a Proud Heart” reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. If God could transform the church’s greatest persecutor into its greatest apostle, He can reach the most “impossible” person in your life.

5. How does the “sovereignty of God” help with New Year’s anxiety? The series conclusion emphasizes that because “God knows what He’s about,” we don’t have to know every detail of the future. We can enter a new year with confidence, not because we know what the year holds, but because we know who holds the year.

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A Living Hope

We can navigate the placid waters of life one moment and get tossed by the storms of trials and tribulations the next. That’s why we need hope. Hope illumines and warms our souls on cold, dark days. Hope is a lighthouse when we’re storm tossed.

In this uplifting series, you’ll be inspired by our eternal Hope—Jesus—by listening in on the always winsome and grace-filled messages from Chuck Swindoll. Learn how the same power that raised Jesus from the dead and that transformed a gruff fisherman like Peter into the eloquent “Rock” of the church energizes us to let our lights brilliantly shine with hope for a dark world.


Hope is the lighthouse that guides us through life’s most violent storms. In this two-part Easter series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores the transformative power of the Resurrection. By looking at how the empty tomb changed the course of history and the character of the Apostle Peter, these messages demonstrate that the same power that “untied the death ropes” is available today to energize our faith and turn our darkness into light.

Message 1. When God Untied the Death Ropes (Acts 2:22–24; Matthew 26:31–35)

  • Overview: Explores the transformation of Peter from a fearful, hot-tempered denier to a bold proclaimer of the Gospel. It highlights the reality of the Resurrection as the event that broke the power of death and despair.
  • Key Fact: Peter’s boldness on the Day of Pentecost was not a result of his own willpower, but a direct consequence of witnessing the resurrected Christ.
  • Scripture: Acts 2:24 – “But God raised Him up again, putting an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power.”

Message 2. Marching Orders from the Master (Selected Scriptures)

  • Overview: Focuses on the “living hope” that believers possess because of the empty tomb. It provides practical “marching orders” for how to live as people of the Resurrection in a world that is often devoid of hope.
  • Key Fact: The Resurrection is not just a historical fact to be believed, but a current power to be lived out through our witness and character.
  • Scripture: 1 Peter 1:3 – “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”

Common Questions: A Living Hope

1. Why is the hope of a Christian called a “living” hope? In the series, Pastor Chuck explains that a “living hope” is dynamic and active. Unlike “dead hope” (wishful thinking), a living hope is anchored in the person of the resurrected Jesus. It grows stronger as we walk with Him and provides constant warmth even on life’s coldest days.

2. How did the Resurrection change Peter’s character? Before the Resurrection, Peter was impulsive and easily intimidated, as seen in his denial of Jesus. After seeing the risen Lord, Peter became “The Rock”—eloquent, steadfast, and willing to face persecution. The “death ropes” were untied not just from Jesus, but from Peter’s spirit.

3. What does it mean that it was “impossible” for death to hold Jesus? Drawing from Acts 2:24, Chuck teaches that because Jesus was sinless and was God in the flesh, death had no legal or spiritual claim on Him. The Resurrection was the inevitable triumph of Life over the temporary shadow of the grave.

4. How can I find this hope when I’m in the middle of a “storm”? The series uses the imagery of a lighthouse. When you are storm-tossed, you don’t look at the waves; you look at the Light. By standing on the “strong foundation of God’s Word,” you can endure calamities because you know the end of the story—victory in Christ.

5. What are our “marching orders” as Resurrection people? Our orders are to let our lights “brilliantly shine.” This means being grace-filled and winsome in our communication, bold in our witness, and confident in our future, knowing that the same power that raised Jesus is at work in us.

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Wise Counsel for Troubled Times

Charting a course through the stormy, uncertain seas of our lives can be difficult. It’s impossible without a reliable compass, an accurate set of maps, and some sturdy examples of faith and courage.

In this series, Chuck Swindoll introduces you to many of these courageous and stronghearted individuals. With each message, Chuck invites you to look closely into their lives and discover how to carefully apply to your life what they learned about overcoming challenges. As you fasten yourself to the mainstay of God’s Word, you, too, will stay upright through whatever storms come your way.

Message 1: Sustaining Enthusiasm

Sermon Overview The longer a believer spends engaged in church activities and spiritual routines, the more they are stalked by a dangerous, invisible thief: overexposure. Charles R. Swindoll warns that becoming overly familiar with spiritual truth can lead to boredom, monotony, and a cynical loss of awe for God. Using the ancient Israelites in 1 Corinthians 10 as a warning, he shows how an entire generation experienced daily miracles like manna and the parting of the sea, yet died in the wilderness because they became jaded and craved evil things. Turning to Joshua 1, Swindoll outlines God’s four directives for sustaining enthusiasm: be strong and courageous within, carefully obey all instructions without deviating, continually study and meditate on the Word, and remember that God is always with you.

Key Facts

  • The Danger of Overexposure: Without intentional effort, believers and ministry leaders can easily lose their excitement for the glory of God, reducing the Bible to a mere manual and ministry to a joyless obligation.
  • A Tragic Warning: The Israelites were all guided by the cloud, baptized into Moses, and fed spiritual food, yet God was not pleased with most of them because they lost their enthusiasm and turned to idolatry and grumbling.
  • Nothing Great Without Enthusiasm: Quoting Ralph Waldo Emerson, Swindoll emphasizes that enthusiasm is essential for achieving anything great; believers must give their all and leave the final results to God.

Scripture References

  • Joshua 1:1–9
  • 1 Corinthians 10:1–11

Message 2: Overcoming Failure

Sermon Overview Two of the most difficult words a person can say are “I failed”. Whether in a marriage, an academic course, a business, or ministry, failure brings immense shame and self-disappointment. Swindoll looks at the agonizing failure of the Apostle Peter, who boldly boasted he would die for Jesus, only to deny even knowing Him three times just hours later under the pressure of a hostile courtyard. When the rooster crowed and Jesus looked at him, Peter left weeping bitterly, completely crushed by his actions. However, Swindoll provides profound hope by tracing Peter’s restoration at the Sea of Galilee, proving that failure need not disable a believer forever.

Key Facts

  • Satan’s Sifting: Satan relentlessly plans for a believer’s failure, actively looking to “sift” them like wheat by targeting their unique weaknesses.
  • The Danger of Smugness: Believers must never arrogantly say “never” to sin; pride goes before destruction, and everyone is only one stumble away from a fall.
  • Signs of Recovery: True recovery from failure involves a sudden jolt of awareness, a heartbreaking rush of anguish and tears, a quiet acknowledgment of God’s full forgiveness, and a sensitive realization of renewed purpose.

Scripture References

  • Luke 22:31–34, 54–62
  • Mark 16:5–7
  • John 21:1–17
  • 1 Corinthians 10:6–12

Message 3: Never Quitting

Sermon Overview Living in a post-Christian culture requires enormous determination, because society will constantly urge believers to back off, compromise, and fall in line. In his final letter from a dark Roman dungeon, the Apostle Paul issues a passionate charge to his young protégé, Timothy, to never quit. Paul accurately describes the “last days” as savage and menacing times filled with people who love themselves and reject the truth. In response, Paul commands Timothy to stand firm and faithfully preach the Word of God, correcting and rebuking without apology. Swindoll emphasizes that faithful biblical exposition is the necessary “strong medicine” for a sick society, warning against churches that substitute truth for “warm and fuzzy” entertainment.

Key Facts

  • Savage Times: The Greek word for “difficult” times in 2 Timothy 3:1 was used to describe fierce, wild animals and raging storms, perfectly depicting the menacing, depraved culture believers face today.
  • The Pastoral Job Description: Pastors are strictly commanded to preach the word, be prepared in all seasons, correct, rebuke, and encourage their congregations with immense patience.
  • No Retirement from Life: Though society encourages people to “retire” and withdraw in their later years, believers are called to stay engaged and run the race fully until the very end.

Scripture References

  • 2 Timothy 3:1–5, 10–14
  • 2 Timothy 4:1–5
  • 2 Corinthians 11:23–28

Message 4: Thinking Biblically

Sermon Overview The Christian life is not a playground; it is a battleground where the primary fight is over the control of the mind. Swindoll explains that if the enemy can seize how a person thinks, he can dictate how they live. Using Romans 12, the message challenges believers to stop copying the behaviors, customs, and politically correct molds of the modern world. Instead, Christians must allow God’s Word to radically transform their thinking. To illustrate this, Swindoll highlights the heroic life of King Josiah. Despite inheriting a dark, idolatrous nation, Josiah sought the Lord as a teenager, purged the nation of idols, and led a massive spiritual reformation the moment he heard the newly discovered Book of the Law read aloud.

Key Facts

  • The World’s Mold: The “world” (or age) consists of the floating mass of opinions, speculations, and immoral atmospheres that constantly attempt to squeeze believers into conformity.
  • A Tender Heart: Unlike his wicked father and grandfather, Josiah cultivated a tender heart; when he finally heard the Scriptures at age 26, he tore his clothes in despair over the nation’s failure and immediately instituted change.
  • How to Proceed: Learning to think biblically requires maintaining an open Bible daily, cultivating a tender heart that invites truth to impact daily decisions, and possessing a willingness to actually change and break ungodly traditions.

Scripture References

  • Romans 12:1–2
  • 2 Corinthians 10:3–5
  • 2 Chronicles 34:1–33
  • 2 Kings 22:1

Message 5: Demonstrating Wisdom

Sermon Overview Rash reactions driven by anger and emotion never lead to anything good, often leaving a trail of regret and destruction. Swindoll unpacks a tense, dramatic narrative from 1 Samuel 25 involving David, a wealthy fool named Nabal, and Nabal’s sensible wife, Abigail. When Nabal selfishly insults David’s men, David loses his temper and straps on his sword, intending to slaughter Nabal’s entire household. Disaster is averted only by the swift, tactical wisdom of Abigail, who intercepts David with a generous peace offering and a brilliant, calming speech. Her wisdom stops David from ruining his future legacy with an act of murderous revenge.

Key Facts

  • The Folly of Insensitivity: Nabal, whose name literally means “fool,” represents the insensitive, ill-tempered spouse whose selfish actions bring unnecessary danger and heartache to their entire family.
  • Wisdom in Action: Rather than arguing with her foolish husband, Abigail wasted no time; she gathered provisions, rode out to meet an angry David, and humbly took the blame to de-escalate the crisis.
  • Intrinsic Motivation: Abigail wisely appealed to David’s long-term calling, reminding him that God would soon make him king and he did not want the permanent stain of needless bloodshed on his conscience.

Scripture References

  • 1 Samuel 25:1–42
  • Proverbs 16:7

Message 6: Taking Responsibility

Sermon Overview One of the most damaging concepts in modern Christianity is the false division between “secular” and “sacred” work. Swindoll dismantles this dichotomy by looking at the versatile life of Nehemiah. God is the creator and owner of all things, meaning every legitimate occupation is a sacred, God-given calling. Nehemiah faithfully wore three distinct hats for God’s glory: a servant’s hat as the trusted cupbearer to the Persian King, a hard hat as the construction supervisor who miraculously rebuilt Jerusalem’s walls in 52 days, and a politician’s hat as the governor who reformed the city’s corruption. Believers are challenged to be “all there” and live their specific occupational callings to the hilt.

Key Facts

  • The Role of the Cupbearer: Nehemiah began as an officer who tasted the king’s wine to prevent assassination, a position of massive influence, trust, and intimacy with the most powerful ruler in the world.
  • No Secular Jobs: Whether a person is a banker, pilot, teacher, or homemaker, they are a representative of the Lord Jesus Christ; their daily work is a spiritual assignment meant to be done willingly for God.
  • Intrinsic Motivation: Nehemiah was not driven by money, personal glory, or public applause; he was driven by the deep internal conviction that the gracious hand of God was upon him to accomplish the task.

Scripture References

  • Nehemiah 1:1–4
  • Nehemiah 2:1–18
  • Nehemiah 6:15
  • Nehemiah 8:9
  • Colossians 3:17, 23

Message 7: Standing Alone

Sermon Overview It is incredibly easy to feel insignificant in a crowded, busy world, but God’s historical plans consistently hinge on the power of one individual. Exploring the dramatic story of Queen Esther, Swindoll highlights the ultimate test of character: standing alone when no one else can do what you are positioned to do. When a Hitler-like official named Haman passes an irrevocable decree to slaughter every Jew in Persia, Esther is safely hidden in the royal palace. However, her cousin Mordecai challenges her to realize she may have been made queen for “such a time as this”. Risking her own execution, Esther bravely steps out of the safe harbor of theory to break the law and plead for her people’s survival.

Key Facts

  • A Book Without God’s Name: Esther is the only book in the Bible where God’s name is completely absent, yet His sovereign, invisible hand of providence is clearly seen orchestrating every detail.
  • “Such a Time as This”: Mordecai warned Esther that her palace walls would not save her, urging her to recognize that her entire life trajectory was likely designed by God for this exact heroic moment.
  • The Courage to Act: Esther requested three days of fasting from her people before delivering her famous resolution: “I will go in to see the king. If I must die, I must die”.

Scripture References

  • Esther 3:8–13
  • Esther 4:1–17

Message 8: Respecting Authority

Sermon Overview In a modern era dominated by an arrogant spirit of entitlement, society constantly urges people to question and rebel against authority. Swindoll delivers strong, counter-cultural advice: believers are called to humbly respect authority, even when those in charge are unfair. Looking at the life of David, the message traces his years as a fugitive fleeing from the insanely jealous, murderous King Saul. Even when David found Saul completely vulnerable in a cave at En-gedi, David refused to draw his sword, stating he would never harm the Lord’s anointed. David’s profound restraint illustrates that believers must refuse to fight in the flesh and leave all vengeance to the righteous anger of God.

Key Facts

  • The Burden of Jealousy: Though David was a loyal, successful teenage military commander, King Saul was so intimidated by David’s popularity that he became obsessed with murdering him.
  • Sparing the Enemy: Urged by his men to kill Saul in the cave, David only cut off a piece of Saul’s robe, and his conscience immediately bothered him for even showing that minor disrespect to the king.
  • Vengeance Belongs to God: The biblical mandate is to never take personal revenge; believers are commanded to leave room for God’s justice and to overcome evil by doing good to their enemies.

Scripture References

  • 1 Samuel 24:1–22
  • Romans 12:19–21
  • Romans 13:1–5
  • Proverbs 16:7

Message 9: Cultivating Humility

Sermon Overview True humility is a desperately rare commodity in a world driven by ego, resume-building, and self-promotion. Swindoll identifies John the Baptist as the ultimate biblical model of an authentic, humble leader. Though John was a sensation who drew massive crowds to the Judean wilderness, he never manipulated his authority or sought the spotlight. When people asked if he was the Messiah, he bluntly said “no,” identifying himself merely as a voice preparing the way for Christ. As Jesus’s ministry grew and John’s disciples began leaving him, John rejoiced like a best man at a wedding, establishing the ultimate life motto for every believer: “He must increase, I must decrease”.

Key Facts

  • Acting “Medium”: Humility is not denying your gifts or walking around acting worthless (false humility); it is simply not calling attention to yourself, a concept Swindoll summarizes as choosing to “act medium”.
  • A Contented Witness: John performed no miracles and wore bizarre clothing, yet he perfectly fulfilled his calling to be the “lamp” pointing people to the true “Light” of the world.
  • The Cure for Envy: Envy thrives in the church and corporate world, but true humility finds genuine joy in the success and promotion of others, happily stepping into the shadows so God gets the glory.

Scripture References

  • John 1:6–8, 19–37
  • John 3:25–30
  • Matthew 11:11

Message 10: Studying Hard

Sermon Overview Ignorance of the Bible breeds superstition, fear, and instability; conversely, digging deeply into the Scriptures produces immense joy, peace, and spiritual strength. Following 70 years of exile in Babylon, the Jewish people returned to Jerusalem severely disconnected from their spiritual heritage. Swindoll focuses on Ezra, a scribe and priest who devoted his life to carefully studying, obeying, and teaching the Word of God. In Nehemiah 8, Ezra stands on a wooden platform at the Water Gate and reads the scroll from morning until noon. Because Ezra and the Levites clearly explained the meaning of the text, the people finally understood God’s truth, resulting in a magnificent celebration and national revival.

Key Facts

  • Three Return Companies: The Jews returned from Babylon in three waves: Zerubbabel returned to rebuild the temple, Ezra returned to reestablish the worship and the Law, and Nehemiah returned to rebuild the city wall.
  • Ezra’s Determination: Ezra’s profound success was rooted in a conscious, disciplined decision to study the Scriptures, apply them to his own life, and accurately teach them to a generation that had forgotten them.
  • The Blueprint for Exposition: True biblical preaching involves reading the literal text of the Bible, clearly explaining its meaning, and helping the congregation understand how to practically apply it to their lives.

Scripture References

  • Ezra 7:1–10
  • Nehemiah 8:1–14
  • 2 Chronicles 36:14–20

Message 11: Modeling Integrity

Sermon Overview Integrity is an essential character quality defined as wholeness, soundness, and being entirely the same in private as you are in public. Swindoll looks at the life of Daniel, an eighty-year-old statesman who maintained a flawless record of integrity through several corrupt Babylonian and Persian regimes. When King Darius planned to promote Daniel to oversee the entire empire, jealous officials tried to find dirt on him but found absolutely nothing. Consequently, they manipulated the king into signing an irrevocable law making prayer illegal. Unfazed, Daniel went home and prayed to God just as he always had, fully accepting the terrifying consequence of the lions’ den.

Key Facts

  • Authenticity, Not Perfection: Being a person of integrity does not mean a person never sins; rather, it means they are completely authentic, quick to admit wrong, and live without the dualistic hypocrisy of a double life.
  • Consistency Under Pressure: Daniel did not panic or suddenly start praying because of the new law; his integrity was proven by his steady, unbroken habit of praying and giving thanks to God three times a day “as usual”.
  • The Rewards of Character: Living a life of integrity brings the continued relief of a clear conscience, personal intimacy with God, and the priceless inheritance of a lingering legacy for your children.

Scripture References

  • Daniel 6:1–28
  • Proverbs 10:9
  • Proverbs 20:6–7

Message 12: Extending Grace

Sermon Overview We have all been unfairly wounded, and the natural human instinct is to nurse bitterness and plot revenge. However, Swindoll teaches that the grinding feelings of resentment are only resolved by extending grace. To illustrate this, he examines the life of Joseph, who endured 13 years of horrific victimization: he was hated by his brothers, thrown into a pit, sold into slavery, falsely accused of rape, and forgotten in an Egyptian dungeon. Decades later, as the powerful Prime Minister of Egypt, Joseph possessed absolute authority over the brothers who ruined his youth. Instead of executing them, Joseph wept, forgave them, and provided for them, recognizing that God had sovereignly orchestrated the entire ordeal.

Key Facts

  • Grace in Action: Grace means doing what is best and right when you have been done wrong, and responding with a forgiving attitude even if the guilty party never genuinely repents.
  • Refusing to Play God: When Joseph’s brothers cowered in fear, Joseph extended grace by asking, “Am I God?” He recognized that taking vengeance and punishing others is a role reserved strictly for the Lord.
  • The Divine Perspective: Joseph was freed from bitterness because he grasped the overarching sovereignty of God, telling his brothers, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good”.

Scripture References

  • Genesis 37:2
  • Genesis 39:1–23
  • Genesis 50:14–21
  • Romans 8:28

Message 13: Encouraging Others

Sermon Overview Encouraging others is not merely a nice idea; according to the New Testament, it is a strict, vital command for every believer. Swindoll introduces a man named Joseph from Cyprus, who was so exceptional at lifting others up that the apostles officially nicknamed him Barnabas, meaning “Son of Encouragement”. Barnabas’s life provides a practical blueprint for how believers can inject courage into a hurting world. He modeled financial generosity by selling his land to provide for persecuted Christians, and he bravely risked his reputation to endorse the newly converted (and highly feared) Saul of Tarsus. Ultimately, Barnabas demonstrated the profound grace of giving a “second chance” when he stubbornly refused to give up on the young defector, John Mark.

Key Facts

  • The Power of Endorsement: When the apostles in Jerusalem rightfully feared Saul because of his violent past, Barnabas spontaneously stepped forward, took Saul by the arm, and vouched for the authenticity of his conversion.
  • Unselfish Teamwork: When a revival broke out in Antioch, Barnabas did not hoard the spotlight; he traveled 100 miles to Tarsus to find Saul, bringing him back so they could share the ministry load together.
  • Second Chance Encouragement: Paul and Barnabas had a massive, sharp disagreement over John Mark, who had previously deserted them. While Paul refused to travel with a quitter, Barnabas’s commitment to encouraging the fallen ultimately salvaged Mark’s ministry.

Scripture References

  • Acts 4:32–37
  • Acts 9:19–28
  • Acts 11:19–26
  • Acts 15:36–41
  • Hebrews 10:23–25
  • Job 4:3–4

Written by

Searching the Scriptures: Find the Nourishment Your Soul Needs

In Searching the Scriptures, Chuck Swindoll teaches us how to dig deep into Scripture and uncover profound truths for our lives by teaching us to prepare our own spiritual meals. Explaining the tried and tested techniques for Bible Study that he has used his entire ministry, Chuck leads you on a journey of biblical discovery that will provide spiritual nourishment for a lifetime.

Through this instructive website, you can learn the same tried and tested techniques Chuck uses every day in his own Bible study.

STS Website


There are few subjects more important than learning how to feed yourself with the Word of God. Many Christians rely solely on others to “cook” for them, never learning how to prepare their own spiritual meals. In this vital series, Chuck Swindoll pulls back the curtain on the tried-and-tested techniques he has used throughout his entire ministry. Using a culinary metaphor, he guides us through the steps of observation, interpretation, correlation, and application. This is more than an academic exercise; it is a journey toward finding the deep, daily nourishment your soul craves.

Message 1: Choosing the Recipe: Pursuing the Treasures of Scripture

Sermon Summary Before you can study the Bible, you must believe it is worth the effort. In this foundational message, Chuck discusses the high priority of God’s Word and the mindset required to discover its treasures. Drawing from Psalm 119, we learn that the Bible is not just a book to be read, but a life-source to be pursued with all our hearts.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Value of Truth: Viewing Scripture as more valuable than gold or silver.
  • A Student’s Heart: The necessity of approaching the Word with humility and hunger.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Psalm 119: Selections emphasizing the beauty and authority of God’s Word.

Message 2: Reading the Ingredients: Observing the Text

Sermon Summary The first step in effective Bible study is Observation—answering the question: “What does it say?” Like a chef carefully inspecting ingredients, we must learn to see exactly what is on the page. This involves looking for repeated words, contrasts, comparisons, and structural clues that reveal the author’s primary focus.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Active Reading: Learning to see, not just look.
  • The Importance of Context: How surrounding verses define the meaning of the text.

Message 3: Understanding the Nutrients: Interpreting the Text

Sermon Summary Once we know what the text says, we must ask: “What does it mean?” This is Interpretation. In this message, Chuck teaches us how to move from the facts of the passage to the intended meaning. This requires understanding the historical setting, the grammar, and the literary genre to avoid making the Bible say what we want it to say.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Single Meaning: Recognizing that a passage has one primary meaning but many applications.
  • Bridging the Gap: Understanding the culture and language of the original audience.

Message 4: Comparing the Flavors: Correlating the Text

Sermon Summary The Bible is a unified book. Correlation is the practice of comparing the passage you are studying with other parts of Scripture. By letting “Scripture interpret Scripture,” we ensure that our understanding aligns with the whole counsel of God, preventing us from building a theology on an isolated verse.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Unity of the Bible: Seeing the overarching story of redemption across all 66 books.
  • Cross-Referencing: Using other biblical passages to bring clarity to difficult texts.

Message 5: Adding the Spices: Applying the Text

Sermon Summary Study without application is merely academic; application without study is often misguided. The final goal of Searching the Scriptures is to ask: “How does this work in my life?” Chuck explains how to take eternal truths and turn them into timely actions that transform our character and conduct.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Transformation vs. Information: The primary goal of study is a changed life.
  • Personalized Response: Identifying specific steps of obedience based on the text.

Message 6: Setting the Table: Preparing to Dig into God’s Word

Sermon Summary Effective study requires the right environment and tools. In this practical message, Chuck discusses the “setting” of a student’s life. From selecting a good study Bible to finding a consistent time and place, we learn how to remove distractions and prepare our hearts to meet with God.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Study Essentials: Recommendations for commentaries, concordances, and dictionaries.
  • Spiritual Readiness: The role of prayer and the Holy Spirit in our study time.

Message 7: Tasting a Sample: Learning Where We Fit in the Story

Sermon Summary The Bible is not just a book of ancient history; it is a story we are still a part of. This message focuses on the “narrative” of Scripture. Chuck teaches us how to read biblical stories in a way that helps us identify with the characters and see God’s hand in our own modern-day narratives.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Power of Story: Understanding how God uses biography to teach theology.
  • Personal Identification: Finding hope and warning in the lives of biblical figures.

Message 8: Feeding the Hungry: Presenting the Truth

Sermon Summary The ultimate joy of “cooking” a spiritual meal is sharing it with others. Whether you are a parent, a teacher, or a friend, this final message teaches you how to take what you have learned and present it to others in a way that is clear, accurate, and compelling.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Communication with Clarity: The art of passing on biblical truth.
  • The Joy of Sharing: Why feeding others is the natural result of being fed yourself.

Common Questions about Searching the Scriptures (FAQ)

Is Bible study only for pastors and scholars? Not at all. God wrote the Bible for His people. While scholars provide helpful tools, the Holy Spirit is the primary teacher for every believer. Anyone with a heart to learn and a willing spirit can master these basic techniques.

What is the best translation of the Bible for study? A literal or “formal equivalence” translation (like the NASB, ESV, or NKJV) is usually best for word-for-word study. However, using a variety of translations can provide a broader perspective on the meaning of a passage.

How much time should I spend on Bible study each day? The quality of your time is more important than the quantity. It is better to spend 15 focused minutes truly observing a few verses than an hour skimming multiple chapters. Consistency over the long haul is the key to spiritual nourishment.

What if I find a passage that I don’t understand? Don’t get discouraged! Even Peter admitted that some things Paul wrote were “hard to understand” (2 Peter 3:16). Focus on what is clear, use your study tools to explore the difficult parts, and trust that God will give you more insight over time.

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Gaining a Fresh Perspective

Grudges grind friendships to a halt. Bitterness turns marriages into marathons of misery. Misunderstandings build walls of resentment between neighbors who erect high fences. Even churches aren’t immune to the painful results of hurtful words and unmet expectations.

Are you stuck in the disappointment of a broken relationship? Desperate to break free from the chains of bitterness and anger? A fresh perspective is the place to start, and that’s God’s specialty. His Word provides the hope and help you need.

In Gaining a Fresh Perspective: Seeing Relationships through New Eyes, Chuck Swindoll uses the lens of Scripture to offer you a hope-filled outlook on your relationships. The Lord is ready to restore and renew! Discover how His grace can provide genuine healing and lasting transformation.


Relationships can be the source of our greatest joy or our deepest misery. Grudges, bitterness, and unmet expectations often build walls of resentment that seem impossible to scale. In this series, Gaining a Fresh Perspective: Seeing Relationships through New Eyes, Chuck Swindoll explores how the lens of Scripture can transform our outlook. By applying God’s curative power of forgiveness, we can break free from the chains of anger and move toward a life characterized by restoration and renewal.

Message 1: Looking Back: Clearing Away the Trash We Regret

Sermon Summary Many of us live with a “rearview mirror” filled with regret over the messes we’ve made in our own lives or the wreckage of broken relationships. In this message, Chuck uncovers wisdom from the book of Joel, showing how God’s tender mercies are activated through our grief and repentance. We learn that “clearing the trash” of the past is a necessary step before we can move forward into the healing God has planned for our future.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Necessity of Repentance: Understanding how a heart turned toward God opens the door to mercy.
  • Facing the Truth: The courage required to address the failures and regrets that we often try to hide.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • The Book of Joel: A study of God’s restoration following a season of national and personal brokenness.

Message 2: Looking Back: Finding Healing Through Forgiveness

Sermon Summary Forgiveness is the most powerful curative agent in the human experience, yet it is often the hardest to apply. This message focuses on the practical and spiritual dimensions of releasing others from the debts they owe us. By looking back at our injuries through the lens of God’s grace, we discover that forgiveness isn’t just for the offender—it is the key that unlocks our own prison of bitterness and allows genuine healing to begin.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Curative Power of Grace: How letting go of grudges restores spiritual and emotional health.
  • Lasting Transformation: Why forgiveness is the foundation for renewed friendships and marriages.

Primary Scripture References

  • Ephesians 4:31–32: The call to let go of bitterness and forgive as God in Christ forgave us.
  • Colossians 3:13: Bearing with one another and maintaining a heart of forgiveness.

Common Questions about Relationship Healing (FAQ)

What is the first step toward fixing a broken relationship? The first step is often gaining a “fresh perspective” by looking at the situation through God’s eyes rather than our own hurt feelings. This involves an honest evaluation of our own part in the conflict and a willingness to prioritize reconciliation over being “right.”

Does forgiving someone mean I have to trust them again immediately? No. Forgiveness and trust are two different things. Forgiveness is a gift of grace given freely to the offender to release your own bitterness. Trust is a quality that must be rebuilt over time through consistent, faithful behavior.

How do I handle a regret that keeps coming back to haunt me? Scripture tells us to “clear away the trash” by confessing it to God and accepting His complete forgiveness. When regrets resurface, remind yourself that God’s mercy is new every morning and that in Christ, your past does not define your future.

What if the other person doesn’t want to reconcile? As believers, we are called to live at peace with everyone so far as it depends on us (Romans 12:18). You can offer forgiveness and extend an olive branch, but you are not responsible for the other person’s response. Your healing is found in your obedience to God, regardless of the outcome.

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How Great Is Our God!

Everything—where we pin our hopes, how we raise our children, what we do in times of joy or sorrow, everything we aspire to, think, and believe—boils down to how we answer one question: Who is God?

In this series, Chuck Swindoll reminds us of the holiness and majesty of God the Father, the humility and self-sacrificing love of the Son, and the ministry and counsel only the Holy Spirit can provide. These messages provide an anchor of biblical hope in God for believers in times of both tumult and peace.

Every aspect of our lives—how we face trials, how we celebrate joys, and how we view our purpose—is determined by how we answer one central question: Who is God? In this 12-part theological survey, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores the majestic attributes of the Trinity. From the holiness and glory of God the Father to the sacrificial love of the Son and the active ministry of the Holy Spirit, these messages provide a firm biblical anchor. This series is designed to reacquaint believers with the magnitude of the God they serve, offering hope and stability in an ever-changing world.

Message 1: The Glory of God

  • Summary: This message explores the “shekinah” glory of God—the visible manifestation of His presence. It challenges the believer to move beyond a small, manageable view of God and instead stand in awe of His overwhelming majesty and weightiness.
  • Key Facts: God’s glory is the sum total of all His attributes; it is the “weight” of His character that demands our reverence.
  • Scripture: Psalm 19:1; Exodus 33:18–23; Isaiah 6:1–3.

Message 2: The Holiness of God

  • Summary: Holiness is the attribute that sets God apart from everything else. This overview discusses the absolute purity of God and why His moral perfection is the foundation for all other divine traits.
  • Key Facts: To be holy means to be “separate” or “cut off” from sin; God’s holiness provides the standard for human righteousness.
  • Scripture: Isaiah 6:1–8; 1 Peter 1:15–16; Habakkuk 1:13.

Message 3: The Love of God

  • Summary: Unlike human love, which is often conditional, God’s love is an extension of His essence. This message focuses on the “agape” love of God—a choice-driven, sacrificial affection that reached out to us while we were still sinners.
  • Key Facts: God does not just “have” love; He is love. His love is eternal, unchanging, and independent of the object being loved.
  • Scripture: 1 John 4:7–19; Romans 5:8; Ephesians 3:17–19.

Message 4: The Grace of God

  • Summary: Grace is often defined as “unmerited favor,” but this message dives deeper into how God’s grace provides what we cannot earn and do not deserve. It contrasts the Law with the freedom found in the gift of God.
  • Key Facts: Grace is the answer to human helplessness; it is the bridge between a holy God and a sinful humanity.
  • Scripture: Ephesians 2:1–10; Titus 2:11–14; Romans 3:24.

Message 5: The Cup That He Drank

  • Summary: Focusing on the agony of Gethsemane, this message examines the “cup” of divine wrath that Jesus agreed to drink. It highlights the immense cost of our redemption and the submission of the Son to the Father’s will.
  • Key Facts: The “cup” represents the concentrated judgment of God against sin; Jesus’ choice to drink it was the ultimate act of obedience.
  • Scripture: Matthew 26:36–46; Luke 22:39–46; Isaiah 51:17.

Message 6: The Servant who Came

  • Summary: This overview looks at the “Kenosis”—the self-emptying of Christ. Though He was God, He took on the form of a bondservant, modeling the humility that should characterize every follower of Christ.
  • Key Facts: True greatness in God’s kingdom is measured by service, not status; Jesus is the “Suffering Servant” prophesied in the Old Testament.
  • Scripture: Philippians 2:5–11; Isaiah 53:1–12; Mark 10:45.

Message 7: The Lamb That Was Slaughtered

  • Summary: Drawing from the Passover tradition, this message explains why Jesus is the “Lamb of God.” It details the necessity of a blood sacrifice for the atonement of sins and the finality of Christ’s work on the cross.
  • Key Facts: Sacrifice is the only way to satisfy divine justice; Jesus is the perfect, spotless fulfillment of the Old Testament sacrificial system.
  • Scripture: John 1:29; Revelation 5:6–14; 1 Peter 1:18–20.

Message 8: The Cross We Proclaim

  • Summary: The cross is the central symbol of the Christian faith. This message discusses why the “message of the cross” is foolishness to the world but the power of God to those who are being saved.
  • Key Facts: The cross is where God’s justice and God’s love met; it is the only basis for a believer’s boast.
  • Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:18–25; Galatians 6:14; Colossians 2:13–15.

Message 9: Getting Reacquainted with the Spirit of Power

  • Summary: Many Christians live as though the Holy Spirit is a vague force rather than a Person. This message introduces the Spirit as our Comforter, Advocate, and the source of supernatural power for daily living.
  • Key Facts: The Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Trinity, equal in essence to the Father and the Son; He is the “Helper” promised by Jesus.
  • Scripture: John 14:16–17; John 16:7–15; Acts 1:8.

Message 10: What Does Being ”Filled with the Spirit” Mean?

  • Summary: This overview clarifies the difference between the “baptism” of the Spirit and the “filling” of the Spirit. It focuses on the command to be continually under the influence and control of the Holy Spirit.
  • Key Facts: Being filled with the Spirit is a command to be obeyed, not just a feeling to be sought; it results in the “fruit of the Spirit” in a believer’s life.
  • Scripture: Ephesians 5:18–21; Galatians 5:22–23; Colossians 3:16.

Message 11: Those Unidentified Inner Promptings

  • Summary: How do we distinguish the leading of the Holy Spirit from our own thoughts or emotions? This message provides biblical filters to identify the quiet, inner promptings of God in our decision-making process.
  • Key Facts: The Spirit will never lead in a direction contrary to the Word of God; inner peace and biblical alignment are key indicators of the Spirit’s leading.
  • Scripture: Romans 8:14–16; 1 Kings 19:11–13; Psalm 32:8.

Message 12: The Spirit’s Most Significant Mission

  • Summary: The series concludes by emphasizing that the Holy Spirit’s primary mission is to glorify Jesus Christ. He does this by convicting the world of sin and empowering the church to bear witness to the Gospel.
  • Key Facts: The Spirit does not draw attention to Himself but always points toward the Son; His mission is to make the presence of Jesus real to the believer.
  • Scripture: John 16:13–14; Acts 4:31; 2 Corinthians 3:17–18.

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What Every Believer Must Never Forget!

Times were hard—very hard. A corrupt government and a covetous judiciary made life miserable for all living in a nation that was once strong and stable. Idolatry was rampant, leaving the land with no spiritual vitality. What is worse, the prophets, who would normally guide the people toward righteousness, were weak and shamelessly compromising.

Most of these horrid conditions could be traced back to the failure of King Uzziah, who had once been a strong and competent leader. His extraordinary fame and success resulted in pride and arrogance. In the backwash of all this, a young, very-concerned prophet named Isaiah turned to the Lord to gain understanding. What happened to that young prophet leaves us with four truths we must never forget.


In this powerful study of Isaiah chapter 6, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores a pivotal moment in the life of the prophet Isaiah. Set against a backdrop of national corruption, political instability, and spiritual apathy, Isaiah’s vision of the Lord provides four foundational truths that act as an anchor for every believer. This message serves as a reminder that when earthly leaders fail and culture crumbles, God remains sovereign, holy, and in absolute control.

1. God and God Alone (Isaiah 6:1–9a)

  • Overview: Isaiah’s vision occurs in the year King Uzziah died—a time of great national mourning and uncertainty. In the midst of this vacuum of earthly leadership, Isaiah sees the true King seated on His throne.
  • Key Fact: The death of an earthly leader often provides the “clear air” necessary for us to see the Lord in His rightful place of authority.
  • Scripture: Isaiah 6:1 – “In the year of King Uzziah’s death I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, lofty and exalted, with the train of His robe filling the temple.”

2. The Holiness of the Lord (Isaiah 6:2–4)

  • Overview: Describes the seraphim and their cry of “Holy, Holy, Holy.” This repetition in Hebrew denotes the superlative degree, emphasizing God’s total set-apartness from sin and His absolute perfection.
  • Key Fact: God’s holiness is His defining attribute; it is the “atmosphere” of heaven and the standard to which His people are called.
  • Scripture: Isaiah 6:3 – “And one called out to another and said, ‘Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord of hosts, the whole earth is full of His glory.'”

3. The Conviction of Sin (Isaiah 6:5)

  • Overview: When confronted with God’s holiness, Isaiah does not feel empowered or “good about himself”; he feels “undone” and deeply convicted of his own impurity.
  • Key Fact: True worship begins with a realistic assessment of our own unworthiness in the presence of a holy God.
  • Scripture: Isaiah 6:5 – “Woe is me, for I am ruined! Because I am a man of unclean lips… for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts.”

4. The Provision of Grace and Call to Service (Isaiah 6:6–9a)

  • Overview: God provides the solution to Isaiah’s guilt through the coal from the altar, leading to Isaiah’s immediate and voluntary response to God’s call.
  • Key Fact: God does not just convict; He cleanses. And once cleansed, the believer is ready to say, “Here am I. Send me!”
  • Scripture: Isaiah 6:8 – “Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!'”

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Abraham: One Nomad’s Amazing Journey of Faith

What does it mean to be “the friend of God”? Though he lived in a world at enmity with God, Abraham modeled an enviable walk of faith. When told to go, he went. When promised, he believed. When commanded, he obeyed—even when it seemed to make no sense at all.

Abraham wasn’t “the friend of God” (James 2:23) because of his intellect, his pedigree, or his fortune. Abraham was God’s friend because of his faith. Follow the great Patriarch on his epic adventure, and be challenged to answer life-changing questions. As you witness an imperfect man’s transformation into a hero of the faith, you’ll be warned by his failures and inspired by his trust . . . and you’ll learn what it really means to be a “friend of God.”


What does it take to be called the “friend of God”? In this 22-part epic study of Genesis, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores the life of the great patriarch, Abraham. From his initial call to leave Ur to the ultimate test of faith on Mount Moriah, Abraham’s journey serves as a masterclass in trusting God’s promises when they seem impossible. By looking at his remarkable victories and his human failures, Chuck reveals that a life of faith isn’t about perfection—it’s about a persistent, adventurous walk with the living God.

1. A Patriarch in Panorama (Genesis 11:27–32; Acts 7:2–4)

  • Overview: Introduces Abram in the context of his family and his roots in Ur of the Chaldeans. It sets the stage for a man chosen from a pagan culture to become the father of a new nation.
  • Key Fact: Being a friend of God starts with hearing His voice in the middle of a world that has forgotten Him.

2. Going . . . Not Knowing (Genesis 12:1–9)

  • Overview: Explores the radical nature of Abraham’s call: to leave his country, his relatives, and his father’s house for a destination God had not yet revealed.
  • Key Fact: True faith is often characterized by obedience without a map; it is going where God says while trusting Him with the “how” and the “where.”
  • Scripture: Hebrews 11:8 – “By faith Abraham, when he was called… went out, not knowing where he was going.”

3. Never-to-Be-Forgotten Promises (Genesis 12:1–3)

  • Overview: A deep dive into the Abrahamic Covenant. God promises to make him a great nation, to bless him, and to make him a blessing to all the families of the earth.
  • Key Fact: God’s promises are the “unshakeable foundation” of the believer’s life; they provide security in a shifting world.

4. When the Faithful Fail (Genesis 12:10–20)

  • Overview: Addresses Abraham’s detour into Egypt during a famine. To protect himself, he lies about Sarah being his wife, showing that even heroes of the faith struggle with fear and self-preservation.
  • Key Fact: Failure is part of the journey of faith; God’s grace is big enough to recover us when we take matters into our own hands.

5. A Decision That Led to a Disaster (Genesis 13)

  • Overview: The conflict between Abraham’s herdsmen and Lot’s herdsmen. Abraham chooses the path of peace, but Lot chooses the “well-watered plain” of Sodom, leading to future tragedy.
  • Key Fact: Decisions based solely on outward appearance and personal gain often lead to spiritual disaster.

6. Abram, the Greathearted (Genesis 14)

  • Overview: Abraham rescues Lot from captivity and meets the mysterious Melchizedek. He demonstrates a “greathearted” spirit by refusing to take the spoils of war for himself.
  • Key Fact: A person who trusts in God’s provision doesn’t need to grab for worldly wealth.

7. Can We Talk? (Genesis 15)

  • Overview: Abraham expresses his doubts and questions to God regarding his lack of an heir. God responds by showing him the stars and formalizing His covenant through a smoking oven and a flaming torch.
  • Key Fact: Honest questions and doubts do not disqualify you from faith; God welcomes “big-hearted” conversations with His friends.
  • Scripture: Genesis 15:6 – “Then he believed in the Lord; and He reckoned it to him as righteousness.”

8. Running Ahead of God (Genesis 16)

  • Overview: The story of Hagar and Ishmael. Impatient for God’s promise, Abraham and Sarah try to “help” God out, resulting in centuries of family and international conflict.
  • Key Fact: Running ahead of God’s timing always creates more problems than it solves.

9. Deepening Our Roots with God (Genesis 17)

  • Overview: God reaffirms His covenant, changes Abram’s name to Abraham (“Father of a Multitude”), and institutes the sign of circumcision.
  • Key Fact: Deeper levels of faith require a “cutting away” of the old life and a formal commitment to the new identity God provides.

10. One of Those Upper-Downer Days (Genesis 18:1–15)

  • Overview: The visit of the three heavenly guests. They promise Sarah will have a son within a year, leading to her famous laugh of disbelief.
  • Key Fact: Nothing is too difficult for the Lord, even when our circumstances and biology say otherwise.

11. What Happens When We Pray? (Genesis 18:16–33)

  • Overview: Abraham’s bold intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah. It reveals the heart of a “friend of God” who cares about the judgment facing others.
  • Key Fact: Intercession is the privilege of standing in the gap for others based on the character of a righteous God.

12. When the Cesspool Overflows (Genesis 19:1–11)

  • Overview: A graphic look at the depravity of Sodom. It serves as a sobering reminder of what happens when a culture completely abandons God’s standards.
  • Key Fact: God’s judgment is eventually triggered when the “cup of iniquity” is full.

13. A Wail of Two Cities (Genesis 19:12–29)

  • Overview: The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah and the rescue of Lot’s family. Lot’s wife “looks back,” illustrating the danger of a heart still tethered to a sinful culture.
  • Key Fact: To be rescued by God, we must be willing to leave our old “cities” behind completely.

14. Overcoming Depravity’s Dangerous Undertow (Genesis 19:30–38)

  • Overview: The tragic aftermath of Lot’s life in the cave with his daughters. It shows how the influence of a corrupt culture can linger even after the city is gone.
  • Key Fact: You cannot flirt with depravity without it leaving a permanent mark on your legacy.

15. Disobedience Déjà Vu (Genesis 20)

  • Overview: Abraham makes the exact same mistake again with Abimelech that he made years earlier in Egypt, proving that old habits of fear die hard.
  • Key Fact: We are never so mature that we are beyond the reach of our old temptations; we need God’s grace every single day.

16. It’s a Boy! (Genesis 21:1–7)

  • Overview: The birth of Isaac. After 25 years of waiting, the promise is finally fulfilled, turning Sarah’s laugh of doubt into a laugh of joy.
  • Key Fact: God is never late; His promises are always worth the wait.

17. Forgiven Sin . . . Lingering Consequences (Genesis 21:8–21)

  • Overview: The painful departure of Hagar and Ishmael. It highlights the reality that while God forgives our sins, we often have to live with the consequences of our past mistakes.
  • Key Fact: Grace provides a future, but it doesn’t always erase the friction caused by past disobedience.

18. When God Says, “Let Go!” (Genesis 22:1–14)

  • Overview: The ultimate test—God commands Abraham to sacrifice Isaac on Mount Moriah. Abraham demonstrates complete surrender, and God provides a ram in the thicket.
  • Key Fact: The greatest blessings of faith often lie on the other side of our most difficult acts of surrender.
  • Scripture: Genesis 22:14 – “Abraham called the name of that place The Lord Will Provide (Jehovah-Jireh).”

19. The Pleasures of Passing God’s Exams (Genesis 22:15–24)

  • Overview: After passing the test of Moriah, God reaffirms the blessing with even greater intensity. Chuck explores the “pleasure” and peace that follow total obedience.
  • Key Fact: Passing God’s “exams” leads to a level of spiritual intimacy and security that nothing else can provide.

20. On Finding Your Lifelong Companion (Genesis 24)

  • Overview: Abraham sends his servant to find a wife for Isaac. It provides a beautiful blueprint for seeking God’s guidance in major life decisions like marriage.
  • Key Fact: God is actively involved in the details of our lives, directing our steps through prayer and providential circumstances.

21. What a Way to Go! (Genesis 23; 25:1–11)

  • Overview: The death of Sarah and the final days of Abraham. He dies “at a good old age, an old man and satisfied,” leaving a legacy that still impacts the world.
  • Key Fact: A life of faith ends not in despair, but in the satisfaction of having walked with the King.

22. Portrait of a Hero . . . Warts and Everything (Summary)

  • Overview: The series conclusion, summarizing the “warts and all” life of Abraham. He was a hero not because he was perfect, but because he was a “friend of God” who never stopped trusting.
  • Key Fact: God uses ordinary, imperfect people to accomplish extraordinary, eternal purposes.

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The Church Awakening: An Urgent Call for Renewal

The church belongs to Jesus and to no one else. She is His bride. But if a local church strays from its holy calling, that church risks losing its very identity.

What can a church do, then, to remain pure and deep? God’s Word has the answer.

In this important series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll casts a clear, biblical vision of what comprises a healthy church. Learn these essential truths and timely applications in this nine-part series that will inspire church leaders and congregants alike!


In a culture that is increasingly secular and a church that is often drifting toward entertainment or legalism, there is an urgent need for a “wake-up call.” In this 9-part series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll returns to the foundational blueprint of the New Testament church. By emphasizing the Lordship of Christ and the essential marks of a healthy community, Chuck provides a roadmap for local churches to move away from “the long drift” and toward a vibrant, contagious, and deep spiritual life.

Message 1. The Church: Let’s Start Here (Matthew 16:13–19)

  • Overview: Sets the foundation by declaring that the Church belongs to Jesus and no one else. The Church is built on the confession of Christ as Lord, not on human personalities or clever marketing.
  • Key Fact: The existence and purpose of the church rest entirely on the authority and Lordship of Jesus Christ.
  • Scripture: Matthew 16:18 – “I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the symbols of Hades will not overpower it.”

Message 2. Challenges, Struggles, Solutions, Priorities (Selected Scriptures)

  • Overview: Addresses the modern “identity crisis” of the church. Chuck identifies the specific cultural challenges that cause churches to lose their way and points back to the priorities of the early church in Acts.
  • Key Fact: When a church confuses its mission with cultural trends, it risks losing its power to transform lives.
  • Scripture: Acts 2:42 – “They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”

Message 3. Distinctives of a Contagious Church (Selected Scriptures)

  • Overview: What makes a church “contagious”? It is not high-production value, but the presence of genuine love, uncompromised truth, and a spirit of joyful resilience.
  • Key Fact: A contagious church doesn’t just attract a crowd; it impacts a community through the visible transformation of its members.

Message 4. Worship: A Commitment . . . Not a War (Part One)

  • Overview: Tackles the “worship wars” that have divided many congregations. Chuck argues that worship is a heart-commitment to God, not a matter of musical style or personal preference.
  • Key Fact: True worship is vertical (directed at God) and should never be sidelined by horizontal arguments over tradition versus contemporary trends.
  • Scripture: Psalm 95:6 – “Come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.”

5. Worship: A Commitment . . . Not a War (Part Two)

  • Overview: Continues the study on worship, focusing on the “spirit and truth” required for genuine encounter with God.
  • Key Fact: Worship is an active response of the soul to the greatness of God, which transcends the “performance” aspect of a service.
  • Scripture: John 4:24 – “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”

Message 6. What Must the Church Realize? (Selected Scriptures)

  • Overview: A sobering look at the spiritual reality of the Church’s position in the world. Chuck encourages churches to realize their role as a “lighthouse” in a dark culture.
  • Key Fact: The church must realize that its primary influence comes from being different from the world, not similar to it.

Message 7. How Should the Church React? (Selected Scriptures)

  • Overview: Provides a strategic response to cultural hostility and internal apathy. The church is called to react with grace, boldness, and a renewed commitment to its first love.
  • Key Fact: The church’s reaction to a wrong world should be “right living” and a fearless proclamation of the Gospel.

Message 8. The Church on a Long Drift (Revelation 2–3)

  • Overview: Uses the letters to the seven churches in Revelation to illustrate how a healthy church can slowly “drift” into lukewarmness, legalism, or compromise.
  • Key Fact: The “long drift” is usually subtle and occurs when we stop being vigilant about our spiritual health and doctrine.
  • Scripture: Revelation 2:4 – “But I have this against you, that you have left your first love.”

Message 9. It’s Time to “Restore the Years” (Joel 2:25)

  • Overview: The series concludes with a message of hope and restoration. No matter how far a church has drifted, God is able to restore what has been lost through genuine repentance and renewal.
  • Key Fact: Renewal is always possible because the Potter is still at work on His human clay, and He delights in “restoring the years that the locust has eaten.”
  • Scripture: Joel 2:25 – “Then I will make up to you for the years that the swarming locust has eaten.”

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Getting Through the Tough Stuff

Wouldn’t it be great if our days came with a “Do Over” button?

Ever had one of those days when nothing, absolutely nothing, goes according to plan? Well, Chuck Swindoll has had his share of days he’d like to do over. But since life doesn’t come with a “Do Over” button, Chuck shares how we can make the best of our days—even if it always seems that it’s one thing or another.

In this practical series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll addresses the reality that life doesn’t come with a “do-over” button. By looking at how Jesus and biblical figures handled crises, Chuck provides a roadmap for finding hope and resilience.

Message 1. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Temptation

  • Overview: No one is immune to the pull of temptation. By examining Jesus’ encounter with Satan in the wilderness, Chuck demonstrates that temptation is not a sin, but a test of our allegiances.
  • Key Fact: Temptation often strikes at our points of greatest physical or emotional weakness (the “chink in the armor”); the primary defense is a pre-determined reliance on Scripture.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 4:1–11; Hebrews 4:15

Message 2. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Misunderstanding

  • Overview: Jesus was misunderstood by the religious elite, his townsfolk, and even his own family. This message offers comfort for those who feel isolated or wrongly judged.
  • Key Fact: Being misunderstood is often the price of following God’s unique call on your life. Acceptance from God is more foundational than approval from people.
  • Scripture Reference: Mark 3:21; Mark 3:1–35

Message 3. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Anxiety

  • Overview: Anxiety “strangles” our perspective. Using the story of Mary and Martha, Chuck shows how to slow down, simplify, and prioritize our relationship with Christ over “much serving.”
  • Key Fact: The “Mathematics of Worry” involves adding expectations, subtracting God’s presence, multiplying problems through imagination, and dividing life into sacred and secular.
  • Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:6–7; Luke 10:38–42

Message 4. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Shame

  • Overview: Shame is “naked guilt”—a public exposure that whispers “you are worthless.” Chuck looks at the woman caught in adultery to show how Jesus offers grace over condemnation.
  • Key Fact: Jesus was the only person qualified to condemn the woman, yet He chose to defend her, becoming our “shame-bearer” on the cross.
  • Scripture Reference: John 8:1–11; Hebrews 12:2

Message 5. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Doubt

  • Overview: A look at “Doubting Thomas.” Chuck explains that faith does not always come easily and that God is patient with our sincere struggles to believe.
  • Key Fact: Doubt is not the opposite of faith, but an invitation to a deeper, more personal encounter with the risen Christ.
  • Scripture Reference: John 20:24–29

Message 6. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Divorce

  • Overview: Chuck provides a careful biblical analysis of marriage permanence while addressing the painful reality and grace available when a marriage breaks.
  • Key Fact: While divorce was never God’s ideal, Jesus addressed the reality of its occurrence with truth and a call to a necessary acceptance.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 19:3–12; Mark 10:1–12

Message 7. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Remarriage

  • Overview: This message focuses on the grace-filled possibility of a fresh start. Chuck explores the biblical parameters and the “new creature” reality for those seeking to move forward.
  • Key Fact: It is theologically inconsistent to believe Christ’s death atones for all sins except a failed marriage; God is the God of new beginnings.
  • Scripture Reference: 2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 Corinthians 7:12–15

Message 8. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Confrontation

  • Overview: Conflict is inevitable in a fallen world. This message explores the “Jesus way” of responding to injustice and the importance of healthy, biblical confrontation.
  • Key Fact: A non-retaliatory spirit can lead to personal freedom and a more powerful witness than returning blow for blow.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 18:15–17; Galatians 2:11–14

Message 9. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Pain

  • Overview: Explores Jesus as the “Man of Sorrows.” When we are in the crucible of physical or emotional pain, we find a Savior who is intimately acquainted with grief.
  • Key Fact: Pain signals unseen trouble and, spiritually, helps us grow into mature people of faith by teaching us daily dependence on God.
  • Scripture Reference: Isaiah 53:3; Hebrews 5:7–8

Message 10. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Prejudice

  • Overview: Prejudice is a deep-seated sin problem rooted in the human heart. Chuck identifies the antidote in Christ’s interaction with the Samaritan woman.
  • Key Fact: Prejudice is a learned trait that keeps people in spiritual darkness and binds them to the past, preventing them from seeing others as God does.
  • Scripture Reference: Mark 7:18–23; Matthew 27:27–44

Message 11. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Hypocrisy

  • Overview: Chuck confronts the “disease of the soul” where religious activity becomes a theatrical performance for public applause.
  • Key Fact: A hypocrite is literally “one who speaks from behind a mask.” The remedy is an authentic life characterized by private worship rather than public display.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:1–18; Matthew 23:13–33

Message 12. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Inadequacy

  • Overview: The Great Commission was given to “frightened and incompetent” men. This message shows how God uses our weaknesses to achieve the impossible.
  • Key Fact: Our inadequacy is the “stage” upon which God displays His power through the Holy Spirit.
  • Scripture Reference: Acts 1:8; Matthew 28:16–20

Message 13. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Disqualification

  • Overview: For those who feel they have “blown it” beyond repair, Chuck shares how God’s grace is larger than our greatest failures.
  • Key Fact: Restoration is the heartbeat of the Gospel. Failure does not mean the end of one’s usefulness in the Kingdom of God.
  • Scripture Reference: John 21:15–19; Psalm 51

Message 14. Getting Through the Tough Stuff of Death

  • Overview: Addressing the final “tough stuff,” Chuck provides hope for those facing the loss of a loved one or their own mortality.
  • Key Fact: Because Christ conquered the grave, death for the believer is not an end but a transition to the presence of God.
  • Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 15:54–57; John 11:25–26

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