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Deuteronomy

Moses: A Man of Selfless Dedication

Don’t miss Pastor Chuck Swindoll’s look at the life of Moses, who participated in some of God’s most epic actions ever witnessed on earth!

Moses went from a rescued infant to a prince to a fugitive to God’s chosen deliverer of Israel! This reluctant servant eventually became the leader of God’s chosen people.

Journey with Moses from the Nile, to the burning bush, to the Red Sea, and beyond. Gain new insights into this central figure and learn unforgettable applications for your own journey with God.


Moses participated in some of the most epic actions ever witnessed on earth. He went from a rescued infant to a privileged prince, then to a fugitive in the desert, and finally to God’s chosen deliverer of Israel. In this 20-part biographical study, Chuck Swindoll introduces us to a man whose life mirrors our own highs and lows. Through the Nile, the burning bush, and the Red Sea, we learn how to face impossible situations with selfless dedication. Moses’ story is a powerful reminder that God uses ordinary, flawed people to accomplish His extraordinary purposes.

Message 1: Misery, Midwives, and Murder

Sermon Summary The story of Moses begins in a context of intense suffering. Despite brutal captivity and cruel conditions, the Israelites grew into a large nation, triggering a murderous decree from Pharaoh. This message recaps Israel’s difficult start in Egypt and the “God-sized” dilemma that set the stage for a deliverer. We see that even in the darkest seasons of misery, God is preparing a plan for rescue.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Providence of God: How the Lord protects His people even under the shadow of death.
  • Resilience Under Pressure: The faithfulness of the Hebrew midwives in the face of evil.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 1

Message 2: Born after Midnight

Sermon Summary Moses was born at a time when his life was legally forfeit. This message explores the early days of Moses’ life—his miraculous preservation in a basket on the Nile and his adoption into the house of Pharaoh. Chuck discusses how God’s timing often seems “late” by human standards, but is always perfect for the unfolding of His sovereign will.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Divine Protection: The irony of the future deliverer being raised in the enemy’s palace.
  • Sovereign Timing: Trusting God’s plan when the circumstances look hopeless.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 2:1–10

Message 3: God’s Will, My Way

Sermon Summary Moses knew he was meant to help his people, but he tried to do it through his own strength and timing, resulting in murder and flight. This message addresses the danger of trying to accomplish God’s will through human methods. We learn that zeal without wisdom often leads to failure and that we must wait for God’s “how” as well as His “what.”

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Pitfall of Impatience: Why human effort cannot produce divine results.
  • The High Cost of Sin: The consequences of Moses’ impulsive decision to kill the Egyptian.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 2:11–15

Message 4: Lessons Learned from Failure

Sermon Summary Following his failure in Egypt, Moses became a fugitive in Midian. This message explores the “desert years” of Moses’ life. Failure is often God’s classroom for character development. We see how the former prince was humbled and prepared through the quiet life of a shepherd, learning the lessons that success could never teach him.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Value of Brokenness: How God uses our failures to refine us.
  • Preparation in Obscurity: The importance of the long, quiet seasons of life.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 2:16–25

Message 5: The Desert: School of Self-Discovery

Sermon Summary The forty years Moses spent in the desert were not wasted; they were his “school of self-discovery.” Chuck discusses how the desert strips away our self-sufficiency and forces us to confront who we really are apart from our titles and achievements. It is in the wilderness that we often become most ready to hear the voice of God.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Self-Discovery: Learning the difference between who the world says we are and who God says we are.
  • The Discipline of Silence: How solitude prepares a leader’s heart.

Message 6: Burning Bushes and Second Chances

Sermon Summary God met Moses in a spectacular way through a bush that burned but was not consumed. This message focuses on the “second chance” God offered to His eighty-year-old servant. We learn that God’s call is often persistent and that He is the God of the burning bush—transforming ordinary things into holy ground through His presence.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Holy Ground: Recognizing the presence of God in the ordinary moments of life.
  • God’s Persistence: The Lord’s commitment to using Moses despite his past.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 3:1–10

Message 7: Who? Me, Lord?

Sermon Summary When God called, Moses responded with excuses. This message explores the dialogue of doubt between Moses and the Lord. Chuck addresses the common “Who am I?” objection and how God counters our insecurities with the promise of His presence: “I will be with you.”

Key Facts & Themes

  • Overcoming Insecurity: Shifting focus from our weaknesses to God’s strength.
  • The Power of God’s Name: Understanding the significance of “I AM WHO I AM.”

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 3:11–4:17

Message 8: God’s Will, God’s Way

Sermon Summary Moses finally obeyed, returning to Egypt to confront Pharaoh. This message highlights the shift from doing things “my way” to doing them “God’s way.” We see the importance of full obedience and the courage required to stand before earthly powers with a message from the King of Kings.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Courage of Obedience: Taking the first steps of faith despite fear.
  • Confronting Power: The authority of the servant who speaks for God.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 4:18–5:1

Message 9: Going from Bad to Worse

Sermon Summary Obedience doesn’t always lead to immediate success; sometimes things get worse before they get better. Pharaoh responded to Moses’ request by increasing the Israelites’ workload. This message offers encouragement for those who feel that their situation has declined after following God, reminding us that the darkest hour is often just before the dawn.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Test of Adversity: Why God allows opposition to follow obedience.
  • Perseverance: Staying the course when the results aren’t what we expected.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 5:2–6:13

Message 10: Plagues That Preach

Sermon Summary The ten plagues were not just displays of power; they were messages to both Pharaoh and Israel. This message explores how the plagues “preached” the supremacy of God over the idols of Egypt. We see that God uses even judgment to reveal His character and to break the grip of false gods on our hearts.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Sovereignty of God: Divine authority over nature and false religions.
  • The Purpose of Judgment: Breaking the pride of man to make room for the glory of God.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 7–10

Message 11: The Night Nobody Slept

Sermon Summary The final plague—the death of the firstborn—led to the institution of the Passover. This message focuses on the night of the Exodus. We see the importance of the blood of the lamb and the “selfless dedication” required to follow God’s specific instructions for deliverance. This night marked the birth of a nation and a preview of our redemption in Christ.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Passover Lamb: The necessity of the blood for protection from judgment.
  • Deliverance at Last: The final breaking of Pharaoh’s power.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 11–12

Message 12: Between the Devil and the Deep Red Sea

Sermon Summary With Pharaoh’s army behind them and the Red Sea in front of them, the Israelites were trapped—or so they thought. This message explores the miraculous parting of the sea. Chuck discusses how God places us in “impossible” spots to show us that He alone is our deliverer. “Stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD.”

Key Facts & Themes

  • The God of the Impossible: Divine power to make a way where there is none.
  • Trusting in the Crisis: Learning to wait on God when there are no human options left.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 14

Message 13: A Heavenly Diet vs. an Earthly Appetite

Sermon Summary In the desert, the people began to grumble about their lack of food and water. God responded with manna and water from the rock. This message addresses the conflict between our earthly appetites and God’s heavenly provision. We learn that God provides what we need, even if it’s not always what we crave, and that His provision is intended to teach us daily dependence.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Daily Dependence: The lesson of the manna—gathering just enough for today.
  • Gratitude vs. Grumbling: Overcoming the temptation to complain about God’s provision.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 16–17

Message 14: Why Leaders Crack Up

Sermon Summary The burden of leading millions of people began to take a toll on Moses. This message explores the importance of delegation and shared leadership. Through the advice of Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro, we learn that even the most dedicated leader has limits and that God intends for us to serve in community, not in isolation.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Danger of Burnout: Identifying the signs of emotional and spiritual exhaustion.
  • The Wisdom of Delegation: Learning to share the load with other faithful servants.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 18

Message 15: Sinai: Where Moses Met God

Sermon Summary At Mount Sinai, God gave Moses the Ten Commandments. This message focuses on the awe-inspiring encounter between the Creator and His servant. We learn that selfless dedication is fueled by a regular, personal meeting with God. Sinai was a place of law, but it was also a place of intimate communion.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Holiness of God: Approaching the Almighty with reverence and awe.
  • The Foundation of Law: Understanding the moral framework for a redeemed people.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Exodus 19–20

Message 16: Grumblings against a Godly Leader

Sermon Summary Even a leader as great as Moses faced internal rebellion, including from those closest to him. This message addresses the pain of criticism and betrayal. Chuck discusses how Moses responded to the grumblings of Miriam and Aaron with humility, teaching us how to handle unjust criticism without becoming defensive.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Handling Criticism: The importance of a meek and quiet spirit when attacked.
  • Divine Vindication: Trusting God to defend our character and our calling.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Numbers 12

Message 17: A Moment of Rage

Sermon Summary In a moment of intense frustration, Moses struck the rock instead of speaking to it, disobeying God’s direct command. This message explores the consequences of that “moment of rage.” We learn that even a lifetime of selfless dedication does not exempt us from the need for consistent obedience and that our leaders’ failures carry significant weight.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Danger of Anger: How a moment of lost control can alter our future.
  • The Weight of Leadership: Why God holds His servants to a high standard of accountability.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Numbers 20:1–13

Message 18: Filling the Shoes of Moses

Sermon Summary As Moses’ life neared its end, God prepared Joshua to take his place. This message discusses the importance of mentorship and succession. Moses’ selfless dedication was seen in his willingness to empower the next generation, ensuring that God’s mission would continue even after he was gone.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Investing in Others: The legacy of a leader who trains a successor.
  • Transitioning with Grace: Passing the torch with humility and confidence in God.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Numbers 27:12–23

Message 19: Obituary of a Hero

Sermon Summary Moses died alone with God on Mount Nebo, looking into the Promised Land he could not enter. This message is a tribute to the “heroic” life of Moses. We explore his obituary as written by God Himself—a man who was “meek above all others” and with whom God spoke “face to face.”

Key Facts & Themes

  • A Finished Race: Reflecting on the legacy of a life well-lived.
  • The Favor of God: What it means to be called a “friend” of the Almighty.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Deuteronomy 34

Message 20: Moses’ Faith, Moses’ Choices . . . and Me

Sermon Summary The series concludes with a personal application of Moses’ life. Chuck summarizes the major choices Moses made—choosing ill-treatment with God’s people over the passing pleasures of sin. We are challenged to examine our own faith and our own choices, deciding today to live with the same selfless dedication that characterized the man of God.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Choosing Wisely: The eternal impact of our daily decisions.
  • Developing Faith: Following the model of Moses in our modern context.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Hebrews 11:23–29

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Pressing On in Faith

Do you need to hit the pause button in your life?

In this two-part series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll encourages you take a moment to stop what you’re doing and practice two spiritual disciplines essential for the journey of faith: remembering and preparing.

The first sermon, on Deuteronomy 8:1–5, helps you look back to remember what Christ has taught you. The second, on Hebrews 12:1–3, helps you look ahead to prepare for the course God has in store for you.


In the fast-paced rhythm of life, it is vital to occasionally “hit the pause button” and evaluate our spiritual progress. This two-part series explores two spiritual disciplines essential for a healthy journey of faith: remembering and preparing. By looking back to see God’s fingerprints on our history and looking ahead to prepare for the race set before us, we find the perspective and endurance needed to persevere. Whether you are closing one chapter of life or standing at the threshold of a new year, these messages provide a biblical framework for pressing on with confidence.

Looking Back, Let’s Remember the Journey

Sermon Summary Your past is not just a collection of random events; it is a journey marked by the presence of God. This message focuses on the discipline of remembering, as seen in Moses’ instructions to the Israelites in Deuteronomy 8. Chuck discusses the importance of identifying the lessons God has taught us in the wilderness seasons of life. We learn that recognizing God’s hand in our past—His provision, His discipline, and His guidance—is the key to trusting Him with our future.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Discipline of Remembering: Intentionally identifying God’s faithfulness in your history.
  • Lessons from the Wilderness: Understanding why God allows seasons of testing and want.
  • God’s Fingerprints: Learning to see divine intervention in everyday experiences.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Deuteronomy 8:1–5

Looking Ahead, Let’s Prepare for the Race

Sermon Summary Once we have remembered the journey, we must prepare for the race that lies ahead. This message focuses on the exhortation in Hebrews 12 to run with endurance. Chuck addresses the necessity of “laying aside every encumbrance”—the weights and sins that slow us down—to focus fully on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. We learn that preparing for the future requires a commitment to endurance and a refusal to become weary or lose heart.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Laying Aside Weights: Identifying the habits and distractions that hinder spiritual progress.
  • The Endurance of the Race: Why perseverance is the hallmark of the Christian life.
  • Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus: Keeping Christ at the center of our future vision and motivation.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Hebrews 12:1–3

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Changing Wanderers into Worshipers

Do you ever feel like you’re wandering through life without a strong sense of purpose or a clear sense of direction?

God enjoys turning wandering people into worshipers, transforming drifters into pilgrims who receive His words, follow His ways, believe His promises, and enjoy His presence. That’s exactly the work He began through Moses who led the people out of Egypt to Sinai and eventually into the promised land.

Learn along with Moses, Joshua, Caleb, and the rest of the Israelites what it means to worship the one, true God and to follow His leading in our day.

Do you ever feel like you are wandering through life without a clear sense of direction or purpose? God specializes in transforming aimless drifters into devoted worshipers—pilgrims who receive His words, follow His ways, and enjoy His presence. This series explores the epic journey of the Israelites under the leadership of Moses and Joshua. From the miraculous departure from Egypt to the falling walls of Jericho, we see how God refines His people in the wilderness, moving them from a mindset of slavery and complaint to a life of faith and victory.

Message 1. A New Beginning: Worth Waiting For

Overview: This message captures the dramatic exit from Egypt after 430 years of captivity, illustrating that God’s timing—though often slower than we desire—is always perfect. As the Israelites plundered the Egyptians and marched toward freedom, the central lesson emerged: the ultimate goal of deliverance is not just physical liberty, but the freedom to worship the Lord.

  • Key Facts:
    • The Israelites left Egypt after 430 years of captivity.
    • Their departure was marked by “plundering” the Egyptians, receiving silver and gold.
    • Worship is the ultimate goal of deliverance.
  • Scripture References: Exodus 12:30–36; Exodus 13:17–22

Message 2. Unusual Leading, Remarkable Results

Overview: At the edge of the Red Sea, the Israelites faced what appeared to be a dead end. This sermon explores how God’s “powerful hand” often leads His people into impossible situations to display His glory and power. By commanding the people to “stand still,” God demonstrated that salvation comes through His intervention rather than human effort.

  • Key Facts:
    • God led the people toward a dead end (the Red Sea) to display His power.
    • Pharaoh’s change of heart led to a final confrontation.
    • The command to “stand still and see the salvation of the Lord” is central to the life of faith.
  • Scripture References: Exodus 14:5–31

Message 3. From Eagles’ Wings to Hornets’ Stings

Overview: This message examines the critical transition at Mount Sinai, where God defined Israel’s identity as a “kingdom of priests and a holy nation.” It contrasts the “eagle wings” of God’s initial rescue with the “hornets’ stings” of His necessary discipline, showing that growth requires both the comfort of His protection and the challenge of His guidance.

  • Key Facts:
    • Occurs two months after leaving Egypt at the foot of Mount Sinai.
    • God’s mission for Israel: to be a “kingdom of priests and a holy nation.”
    • The journey involves both the comfort of God’s protection and the “sting” of His necessary disciplines.
  • Scripture References: Exodus 19:1–6; Exodus 23:27–30

Message 4. Generosity: Willing Hearts, Stirred Within

Overview: The call to build the Tabernacle reveals the true heart of worship through the practice of generosity. This sermon highlights how God desires contributions from those whose hearts are “stirred within,” emphasizing that true giving is a spiritual response to grace rather than a legalistic obligation.

  • Key Facts:
    • The materials for the Tabernacle were to come from “every man whose heart moves him.”
    • Generosity is a spiritual response to being “stirred within” by God’s grace.
    • Worship involves bringing our best—gold, silver, and fine materials—to God.
  • Scripture References: Exodus 25:1–9; Exodus 35:20–29

Message 5. Investing in Things Eternal… Being Blessed

Overview: The Israelites’ overwhelming generosity reached a point where Moses had to command them to stop bringing gifts. This message explores the joy and fulfillment that follow sacrificial giving, culminating in the “glory of the Lord” filling the Tabernacle. It serves as a powerful reminder that the greatest reward for investing in eternal things is the experience of God’s presence.

  • Key Facts:
    • The Israelites gave so much that Moses had to tell them to stop bringing contributions.
    • The completion of the Tabernacle led to the “glory of the Lord” filling the place.
    • The ultimate reward for giving is experiencing God’s presence.
  • Scripture References: Exodus 36:2–7; Exodus 40:34–38

Message 6. Priority One: Taking God Very Seriously

Overview: Amid the thunder and lightning of Sinai, God revealed the weight of His holiness. This sermon discusses why taking God seriously is the essential foundation for any relationship with Him. The Ten Commandments are presented not merely as a list of rules, but as a direct reflection of God’s character that calls for a lifestyle of reverence.

  • Key Facts:
    • God’s presence is described with thunder, lightning, and a thick cloud.
    • Taking God seriously is the foundation of a healthy relationship with Him.
    • The Ten Commandments were given not just as rules, but as a reflection of God’s character.
  • Scripture References: Exodus 19:10–25; Exodus 20:1–17

Message 7. It’s Time to Celebrate—Not Complain

Overview: As the nation began its march from Sinai toward Canaan, a spirit of discontentment began to take root. This message addresses the danger of a complaining spirit, often fueled by “the rabble” and a nostalgia for the comforts of the past. It encourages believers to choose celebration over grumbling by remembering God’s past faithfulness.

  • Key Facts:
    • The march began in the second year, second month, twentieth day.
    • The “rabble” among them stirred up greed and nostalgia for Egypt’s food.
    • Complaining is often a sign of forgetting God’s past faithfulness.
  • Scripture References: Numbers 10:11–13, 33–36; Numbers 11:1–10

Message 8. How to Fail—in Four Simple Lessons

Overview: The tragic failure at Kadesh-barnea serves as a cautionary tale of what happens when a “fleshly perspective” overrides faith. While ten spies focused on the obstacles and giants in the land, Joshua and Caleb focused on God. This sermon outlines how panic and unbelief can bar an entire generation from experiencing the promises of God.

  • Key Facts:
    • Ten spies focused on the “giants,” while only Joshua and Caleb focused on God.
    • The people’s failure was rooted in a “fleshly perspective” and panic.
    • One generation was barred from the Promised Land due to their unbelief.
  • Scripture References: Numbers 13:1–3, 25–33; Numbers 14:1–10

Message 9. When a Leader Fails

Overview: Even the most faithful leaders are susceptible to failure, as seen when Moses struck the rock in anger at Meribah. This sobering message highlights the high standard of holiness God requires of those in leadership and explores how frustration can lead to disobedience, carrying heavy consequences even for the most seasoned servants of God.

  • Key Facts:
    • Moses struck the rock in anger instead of speaking to it as God commanded.
    • Leaders are held to a high standard of holiness.
    • Even great servants of God can let frustration override obedience.
  • Scripture References: Numbers 20:1–13

Message 10. Same Song, Eleventh Verse… Hope Beyond Snakebite

Overview: The recurring cycle of grumbling led to a judgment of fiery serpents, but also provided a profound picture of redemption through the Bronze Serpent. This final message in the series connects Israel’s physical healing with the spiritual salvation found in Christ, emphasizing that hope is always available to those who “look and live.”

  • Key Facts:
    • The people grew “impatient because of the journey” and spoke against God.
    • The “fiery serpents” were a judgment that led to repentance.
    • Looking at the Bronze Serpent saved the physically bitten, just as looking to Christ saves the spiritually lost.
  • Scripture References: Numbers 21:4–9; John 3:14–16

Message 11. Almost Home

Overview: As the Israelites reached the Jordan River, this message focuses on the importance of preparing the heart for a new land and a new chapter. Central to this transition is the “Shema”—the call to love the Lord with all one’s heart, soul, and might—and the responsibility of parents to pass the faith and the history of God’s deliverance to the next generation.

  • Key Facts:
    • The Israelites were positioned at the edge of the Jordan, looking into the Promised Land.
    • The message emphasizes the “Shema” as a foundational command for the home.
    • “You brought us out to take us in” is the recurring theme of God’s redemptive purpose.
  • Scripture References: Deuteronomy 6:1–25

Message 12. How to Kick-Start a Whole New Beginning

Overview: With the death of Moses, the leadership passed to Joshua, marking a significant transition from the wilderness to conquest. This sermon explores the essential ingredients for a successful start: recognizing God’s presence, meditating on His Word, and embracing the command to be “strong and courageous.” It challenges believers to move from a “wilderness” mindset into the “possessions” God has already granted.

  • Key Facts:
    • Moses, the servant of the Lord, is dead; Joshua is commissioned to lead the crossing.
    • Success is tied directly to the Book of the Law and constant meditation upon it.
    • Courage is required because the battle is for territory that God has already promised.
  • Scripture References: Joshua 1:1–9

Message 13. Watching Those Walls Tumble Down

Overview: The conquest of Jericho demonstrates that spiritual victory is achieved “God’s way,” which often appears illogical to the world. By following the unconventional strategy of silent marches and trumpet blasts, the Israelites learned that success is found in quiet obedience rather than human strength. This message highlights that when God is in charge, the “impossible” walls of life fall flat.

  • Key Facts:
    • Jericho was a “tightly shut” city that required a supernatural breakthrough.
    • The strategy involved six days of silence followed by a seventh day of shouting.
    • Victory came when the people acted in faith according to God’s precise instructions.
  • Scripture References: Joshua 6:1–27

Message 14. Defeat on the Heels of Victory

Overview: Immediately following the triumph at Jericho, the Israelites suffered a humiliating defeat at the small city of Ai. This sobering message explores the “Achan factor”—the reality that hidden sin in the camp affects the entire community. It warns against the dangers of overconfidence and “unfaithfulness in regard to things under the ban,” stressing the need for corporate purity.

  • Key Facts:
    • Israel was defeated by the men of Ai because of sin hidden within the ranks.
    • Achan’s greed for a Shinar mantle and gold brought judgment upon the whole nation.
    • The lesson is that we cannot experience God’s power while harboring disobedience.
  • Scripture References: Joshua 7:1–26

Message 15. The Secret – An Attitude of Fortitude

Overview: At age 85, Caleb stepped forward to claim the very hill country that had intimidated the spies 45 years earlier. This sermon highlights the “attitude of fortitude” that comes from following the Lord “fully.” Caleb’s secret was a faith that refused to retire and a perspective that saw giants as opportunities for God to show His might.

  • Key Facts:
    • Caleb was 40 when he first spied the land and 85 when he claimed his inheritance.
    • He specifically requested the “hill country” where the giants (Anakim) lived.
    • His strength was not merely physical but rooted in a lifetime of consistent faith.
  • Scripture References: Joshua 14:6–15

Message 16. Grace and Truth Worth Remembering

Overview: In Joshua’s final address at Shechem, he reviewed the history of God’s grace from the time of Abraham through the conquest. This concluding message in the series emphasizes that the transition from wanderer to worshiper culminates in a choice: “Choose for yourselves today whom you will serve.” It calls for an intimate, in-depth acquaintance with God that moves beyond superficiality.

  • Key Facts:
    • Joshua gathered all tribes at Shechem for a final covenant renewal.
    • The “history of grace” is used as the motivation for future obedience.
    • The hallmark of the worshiper is the deliberate choice to serve the Lord “in sincerity and truth.”
  • Scripture References: Joshua 24:1–28

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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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Family Matters: Investing in the Things That Last

Family—the source of our highest joys and our deepest disappointments. From getting along with parents to raising children, family causes some of the greatest frustrations and irritations . . . and warmest moments of happiness and love.

What are you to do with an institution that brings such sorrow and joy? You invest in it. In this unique series, Chuck Swindoll delivers five powerful messages that will challenge you to invest heavily in your family’s stock. If you do, the dividends will last a lifetime and just might be eternal.


Family life is the source of our highest joys and, at times, our deepest disappointments. In this five-part series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores the essential values that anchor a home in a shifting culture. Moving from a reflective look at the past to a strategic plan for the future, these messages challenge families to untie the “knots” of conflict and invest in relationships that yield eternal dividends.

1. Looking Back on Things That Matter

  • Overview: A reflective, informal message where Chuck looks back on the foundational values that have anchored his own life and family. It encourages listeners to identify and preserve the core principles that define a healthy home.
  • Key Fact: Reflection is not about living in the past, but about learning from it to ensure the “legacy” we leave is one of spiritual substance.
  • Scripture: Psalm 127:1 – “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it.”

2. Untying the Knots in Your Family’s Air Hose

  • Overview: Addresses the “strangling” effect of unresolved conflict and poor communication within the home. Chuck provides practical steps for identifying the “knots” and restoring the flow of grace and love.
  • Key Fact: Unresolved anger and bitterness act like a kink in an air hose—they slowly suffocate the life out of a relationship.
  • Scripture: Ephesians 4:26 – “Do not let the sun go down on your anger.”

3. Surviving Those Challenging Years

  • Overview: Offers encouragement and strategy for the seasons of parenting that feel most overwhelming—specifically the teenage and young adult years.
  • Key Fact: Persistence and prayer are the two most powerful tools a parent has during a child’s “wilderness” season.
  • Scripture: Proverbs 22:6 – “Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

4. Getting Past the Guilt of Your Past

  • Overview: Many parents and spouses are paralyzed by the “if onlys” of their history. This message explores how to accept God’s grace and move forward with freedom and a clear conscience.
  • Key Fact: God’s grace is bigger than your parenting failures; forgiveness is the only way to break the cycle of regret.
  • Scripture: Philippians 3:13 – “Forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead.”

5. Looking Ahead to Things That Last

  • Overview: The series concludes with a forward-looking perspective, urging families to prioritize eternal investments—like character and faith—over the temporary gains of a secular world.
  • Key Fact: The greatest “inheritance” a family can leave is not financial, but spiritual.
  • Scripture: Matthew 6:20 – “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys.”

Common Questions: Family Matters

1. How do I start “untying the knots” if my family hasn’t spoken for years? As Pastor Chuck explains in “Untying the Knots,” it begins with one person willing to humble themselves and apologize. You can’t control their response, but you can “un-kink” your end of the hose by offering forgiveness and seeking peace.

2. What can I do if I feel like I’ve already “failed” as a parent? The message “Getting Past the Guilt of Your Past” is specifically for you. Chuck teaches that living in a state of constant regret actually hinders your ability to love your family today. Once you confess your failure to God, you must accept His forgiveness and start “investing” in the present.

3. Why is parenting so much harder today than in previous generations? While the culture has changed, the core human needs have not. The series emphasizes that even in a digital, fast-paced world, the “things that matter”—unconditional love, firm boundaries, and shared time—remain the same.

4. How do we keep our “spiritual air hose” clear? A clear air hose requires constant maintenance through honest communication and the “ventilation” of grace. It means not allowing issues to fester and choosing to believe the best about one another.

5. What does an “eternal investment” in a child look like? According to the final message, it looks like modeling a sincere walk with God. You invest in “things that last” by teaching your children how to handle failure, how to pray, and how to value people more than possessions.

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Dropping Your Guard

Don’t Let Technology Drown Out Deep Relationships!

E-mail. Internet. Video. Texting. Tablets. Smart phones. The list never ends, does it? As technology advances, real human connection becomes harder and harder. If we’re not careful, each new gadget can draw us further away from the family of believers God designed us to be.

If you want to experience a close community with other Christians, the Dropping Your Guard series by Chuck Swindoll will challenge you to escape the trap of superficiality and to develop tight bonds that will feed your soul and mature your spiritual family. Keep your relationships connected . . . by dropping your guard.


In this transformative series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll addresses the “hidden” life of the believer. Many Christians live behind high walls of protection, fearing that if they are truly known, they won’t be loved. Dropping Your Guard is a call to biblical authenticity, vulnerability, and the “shared life” that God intended for His people. By moving from isolation to intimacy, we discover the freedom that comes from being real with God and with one another.

Message 1: Digging Deeper, Risking Change (Part One)

Overview: Pastor Chuck Swindoll introduces the essential need for biblical authenticity in an increasingly superficial world. This message explores the “hidden” life of the believer and the high walls of protection many Christians build to avoid being truly known. It challenges the “Lone Ranger” mentality and invites listeners to embrace the vulnerability required for genuine community.

  • Key Fact: Authentic fellowship begins only when we admit we are “cracked pots” in need of God’s grace and others’ support.
  • Scripture Reference: Ecclesiastes 4:13–16; 1 Corinthians 12:21

Message 2: Digging Deeper, Risking Change (Part Two)

Overview: Continuing the foundation of the series, this message focuses on the “ragged edge” of life and why we were never meant to walk it alone. Chuck discusses the specific risks involved in being real with others and how the rewards of intimacy—being fully known and fully loved—far outweigh the safety of isolation.

  • Key Fact: Human connection is the primary tool God uses to mature the spiritual family; without it, spiritual growth stagnates.
  • Scripture Reference: Ecclesiastes 4:9–12

Message 3: Getting Closer, Growing Stronger

Overview: This sermon provides the biblical argument for “the other.” Chuck outlines the four essential benefits of community: productivity, support during failure, comfort in cold seasons, and protection during spiritual attacks. As we grow closer to one another, we inherently become stronger in our faith.

  • Key Fact: A “threefold cord” is not easily broken; intentional proximity provides a defensive shield against the enemy.
  • Scripture Reference: Ecclesiastes 4:9–12

Message 4: Operation Assimilation

Overview: Moving from the “why” to the “how,” Chuck explores the process of integrating into the Body of Christ. This message addresses the fears of rejection that keep us from assimilating and highlights the beauty of a church that functions as a cohesive, supportive unit rather than a collection of strangers.

  • Key Fact: Assimilation requires a shift in focus from “What can I get?” to “How can I belong and contribute?”
  • Scripture Reference: Romans 12:4–5; Acts 2:42–47

Message 5: United and Invincible

Overview: Drawing from the accounts in Joshua and Psalm 133, this message illustrates that unity is a prerequisite for spiritual victory. Chuck shows that when God’s people pull together in one accord, they become a force the enemy cannot defeat. Unity is described as “precious oil” that soothes and consecrates the church.

  • Key Fact: Biblical invincibility is not about being superhuman; it is the result of God’s presence invited into harmony.
  • Scripture Reference: Psalm 133:1–2; Joshua 6:1–20; John 17:21–23

Message 6: When the Fellowship Breaks Down

Overview: No community is perfect, and conflicts are inevitable. Chuck addresses what happens when the “guard” is dropped and feelings are hurt. This message provides a roadmap for restoration, focusing on the need for a spirit of gentleness and the humility to admit when we are wrong.

  • Key Fact: Broken relationships are worth the “restoration cost”; the longer a breakdown lasts, the deeper the spiritual impact.
  • Scripture Reference: Galatians 6:1–5; Matthew 5:23–24

Message 7: Authentic Love

Overview: This message defines “authentic love” as a love that does not wear a mask. Chuck examines the “Love Chapter” (1 Corinthians 13) through the lens of transparency, showing how love acts as the “glue” that allows us to stay vulnerable even when relationships get difficult.

  • Key Fact: Authentic love is a choice to prioritize the spiritual health and well-being of others over our own personal freedom.
  • Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 13; Romans 12:9–10

Message 8: Needed: Shelter for Storm Victims

Overview: Life is filled with “whirlwinds”—job loss, illness, betrayal, and grief. Chuck describes the church’s role as a “shelter” for those picking up the pieces. This message emphasizes being a safe harbor where people can find comfort without judgment while they rebuild their lives.

  • Key Fact: Rebuilding after a storm begins with seeing God’s presence in the storm and His plan through it.
  • Scripture Reference: 2 Corinthians 1:3–4; Psalm 46:1

Message 9: Some Things Have Gotta Go!

Overview: To build deep relationships, certain “baggage” must be discarded. Chuck identifies the specific attitudes—such as legalism, judgmentalism, and pride—that act as barriers to intimacy and must be removed to create a “roomy” faith.

  • Key Fact: Vulnerability is only possible in an atmosphere of grace; legalism is the ultimate “guard” that prevents closeness.
  • Scripture Reference: Romans 14:1–13; Ephesians 4:31–32

Message 10: Choose for Yourself

Overview: Authentic community is not automatic; it is a choice. Chuck challenges listeners to decide whether they will remain in the safety of the “lobby” or move into the deeper, riskier, and more rewarding areas of shared life. This message is a call to action for personal commitment.

  • Key Fact: Close relationships are the direct result of time, energy, and intentional cultivation.
  • Scripture Reference: Joshua 24:15; Hebrews 10:24–25

Message 11: The Necessity of Accountability

Overview: Chuck challenges the “live and let live” philosophy of modern society. He argues that Christians are most vulnerable when they live in secrecy. Accountability is presented not as a burden of control, but as a “guardrail” that provides security and reassurance.

  • Key Fact: True accountability must be led by the Holy Spirit to remain a source of grace rather than a tool of legalism.
  • Scripture Reference: Proverbs 13:20; Proverbs 27:17; Romans 12:4–5

Message 12: A Hope Transplant: The Essential Operation

Overview: In the series finale, Chuck addresses those who have lost hope in relationships or the church. He describes “hope” as the prince and power of motivation. For a church to flourish, it needs an infusion of hope that comes from resting on the strong foundation of God’s Word.

  • Key Fact: Hope is to the church what the heart is to the physical body; without it, the community cannot survive.
  • Scripture Reference: Romans 15:4, 13; Lamentations 3:21–24

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Strike the Original Match

Of all the hot-button issues of our day, marriage sits near the top of the list. With a gaggle of voices clamoring for an audience, the masses have grown increasingly confused about the most fundamental understanding of marriage. As Christians place a high value on God’s Word, we look to it for clarity on the most significant questions. How does God define marriage? What direction does the Bible offer on making marriage last? What is the nature of commitment, and what does it look like in this day and age? This series from Chuck Swindoll will bring clarity and offer direction as you navigate the views and vices that threaten this most sacred union.


In an era of confusion regarding the definition and purpose of marriage, this series returns to the biblical blueprints. Pastor Chuck Swindoll addresses the threats to the sacred union and provides direction on how to maintain a vibrant, lifelong commitment. By “striking the original match,” couples can reignite the passion and purpose God intended for marriage from the beginning.

Message 1: Let’s Consult the Architect

  • Overview: Before we can fix a marriage, we must understand its design. This message takes us back to the original “Architect” of marriage to see His definition and purpose for the union between a man and a woman.
  • Key Fact: Marriage is a divine institution, not a social contract; therefore, its rules and definitions are set by God rather than cultural trends.
  • Scripture: Genesis 2:18–25 – “For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh.”

Message 2: The Project: Let’s Consider the Cost

  • Overview: Building a lasting marriage requires a realistic assessment of the investment involved. Chuck discusses the emotional, spiritual, and physical “costs” of maintaining a healthy, growing relationship.
  • Key Fact: A successful marriage is a lifelong “project” that demands consistent effort, sacrifice, and the counting of the cost before and during the journey.
  • Scripture: Luke 14:28–30 – “For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost…?”

Message 3: Let’s Repair the Foundation

  • Overview: When a marriage begins to lean or crack, the issue is often at the foundation. This message focuses on identifying and repairing spiritual and relational cracks before they lead to structural failure.
  • Key Fact: Repairing a marriage starts with a return to the foundational principles of honesty, mutual respect, and a shared spiritual life.
  • Scripture: Psalm 11:3 – “If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?”

Message 4: In Defense of Monogamy

  • Overview: In a culture that often devalues exclusivity, Chuck offers a biblical defense of monogamy. This message explores why total faithfulness is essential for the depth and security of the marital bond.
  • Key Fact: Biblical monogamy is the only context in which the “one flesh” union can truly flourish and provide lasting emotional security.
  • Scripture: Proverbs 5:15–23 – “Drink water from your own cistern and fresh water from your own well.”

Message 5: Bricks that Build a Marriage

  • Overview: This message identifies the specific “bricks” of character and habit that build a strong home, such as unselfishness, patience, and a sense of humor.
  • Key Fact: A strong marriage is built one small act of service and one kind word at a time, rather than through occasional grand gestures.
  • Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:4–7 – “Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant…”

Message 6: Watch Out for Cheap Substitutes!

  • Overview: Couples often look to career, children, or hobbies to provide the fulfillment that only a healthy marriage and relationship with God can give. Chuck warns against these “cheap substitutes.”
  • Key Fact: Substituting secondary activities for primary intimacy leads to a hollow marriage that lacks the resilience to face trials.
  • Scripture: Jeremiah 2:13 – “For My people have committed two evils: They have forsaken Me… to hew for themselves cisterns, broken cisterns that can hold no water.”

Message 7: Who Says the Honeymoon Must End?

  • Overview: Romance and passion are not just for the early days. This message encourages couples to intentionally keep the “spark” alive throughout every season of life.
  • Key Fact: Sustaining romance in marriage is an act of the will and a matter of priority, not just a spontaneous feeling.
  • Scripture: Song of Solomon 4:1–10 – “How beautiful you are, my darling, how beautiful you are!”

Message 8: Termites in Your Troth

  • Overview: Termites are small, hidden pests that cause massive damage. Chuck identifies the “hidden” sins and habits—like resentment or neglect—that eat away at the strength of a marriage.
  • Key Fact: The greatest threats to a marriage are often not the “big” crises, but the small, unaddressed issues that accumulate over time.
  • Scripture: Song of Solomon 2:15 – “Catch the foxes for us, the little foxes that are ruining the vineyards…”

Message 9: How to Have a Good Fight

  • Overview: Conflict is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be destructive. This message provides biblical “rules of engagement” for resolving disagreements with grace and respect.
  • Key Fact: The goal of marital conflict should be resolution and growth, not winning an argument or hurting the other person.
  • Scripture: Ephesians 4:26–27 – “Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger.”

Message 10: Til Debt Do Us Part

  • Overview: Financial pressure is a leading cause of marital stress. Chuck offers practical biblical wisdom for managing money and avoiding the trap of debt that threatens family peace.
  • Key Fact: Financial unity requires shared goals, honest communication, and a commitment to living within God’s provided means.
  • Scripture: Proverbs 22:7 – “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower becomes the lender’s slave.”

Message 11: Commitment Is the Key (Part One)

  • Overview: In the first part of this look at commitment, Chuck explores why a solid “covenant” is the essential ingredient that holds a marriage together when feelings fade.
  • Key Fact: Biblical commitment is a promise kept regardless of the circumstances, modeled after God’s covenant with His people.
  • Scripture: Malachi 2:14–16 – “She is your companion and your wife by covenant.”

Message 12: Commitment Is the Key (Part Two)

  • Overview: This message continues the study of commitment, focusing on the practical “how-to” of staying faithful and devoted through the long haul of a lifelong union.
  • Key Fact: Staying committed requires a daily decision to choose your spouse and protect your relationship from outside interference.
  • Scripture: Matthew 19:6 – “What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate.”

Message 13: Don’t Just Get Older, Get Better!

  • Overview: Addressing the later years of marriage, Chuck encourages couples to view aging as an opportunity to deepen their love and refine their character together.
  • Key Fact: A “seasoned” marriage can be the most beautiful phase of the relationship as couples reap the harvest of years of faithfulness.
  • Scripture: Psalm 92:14 – “They will still yield fruit in old age; they shall be full of sap and very green.”

Message 14: What to Do with an Empty Nest

  • Overview: The series concludes with advice for the transition after children leave the home. Chuck discusses how to rediscover your spouse and find new purpose in this significant life stage.
  • Key Fact: The empty nest is not an end, but a new beginning—a chance to focus on the “original match” that started the family.
  • Scripture: Ecclesiastes 9:9 – “Enjoy life with the woman whom you love all the days of your fleeting life…”

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God’s Masterwork, Volume One

God begins a relationship with His chosen people . . . and had you in mind.

From God as close Companion to Lawgiver, from creation to the fall of humanity into sin, from the heights of Joseph’s Egyptian years to the unhappy slavery of Israel, this sermon series offers an overview of the biblical books from Genesis to Deuteronomy.


The Bible is not a collection of disconnected stories, but a single, grand masterpiece of divine revelation. In this first volume of the God’s Masterwork series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll provides a “bird’s-eye view” of the first five books of the Bible—the Pentateuch. By understanding the themes, authors, and historical contexts of these foundational books, we see the beginning of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.

Message 1. Genesis: Where It All Begins

  • Overview: A survey of the “Book of Beginnings.” It covers the creation, the fall, the flood, and the call of the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph).
  • Key Fact: Genesis provides the “roots” for every major doctrine in the Bible, including marriage, sin, and the promise of a coming Savior.
  • Scripture: Genesis 1:1 – “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

Message 2. Exodus: A Story of Redemption

  • Overview: Chronicles Israel’s transition from slavery in Egypt to nationhood. It highlights the power of God in the ten plagues and the delivery of the Ten Commandments.
  • Key Fact: The Passover in Exodus is the clearest Old Testament picture of Christ, our “Passover Lamb,” whose blood saves us from judgment.
  • Scripture: Exodus 12:13 – “When I see the blood I will pass over you.”

Message 3. Leviticus: A Manual for Holiness

  • Overview: Often overlooked, Leviticus details the laws and sacrifices required for a sinful people to live in the presence of a holy God.
  • Key Fact: The central theme of the book is “Holiness”—being set apart for God’s purposes.
  • Scripture: Leviticus 19:2 – “You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.”

Message 4. Numbers: The Discipline of a Nation

  • Overview: Named for the censuses taken, this book records Israel’s 40-year “wandering” in the wilderness due to their unbelief and rebellion at Kadesh-barnea.
  • Key Fact: Numbers serves as a sobering reminder that while God is faithful to His promises, He will discipline His children for their lack of faith.
  • Scripture: Numbers 14:34 – The consequence of the spies’ bad report: “For forty years—one year for each of the forty days you explored the land—you will suffer for your sins.”

Message 5. Deuteronomy: A Remainder of the Covenant

  • Overview: A series of farewell “sermons” from Moses to the new generation of Israelites. He urges them to remember God’s law before they enter the Promised Land.
  • Key Fact: The name Deuteronomy literally means “second law”—not a new law, but a repeating of the Law for a new generation.
  • Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:4–5 – The Shema: “Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord is one! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart…”

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