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Deuteronomy

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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